2025 Mazda CX-70 vs 2025 Honda Passport: A Comprehensive Comparison

Compare the 2025 Mazda CX-70 vs Honda Passport. The CX-70 offers better fuel economy, more cargo space, lower price & IIHS Top Safety Pick+. Shop Independence Mazda Charlotte NC.

The 2025 Mazda CX-70 and Honda Passport are both midsize SUVs buyers are considering when they want a family-friendly solution to their daily drives. Each vehicle offers compelling features for families and adventure seekers alike – but which one delivers the better overall package? At Independence Mazda, your Community Driven Mazda Dealer in Charlotte, NC, we believe in providing transparent comparisons to help you make an informed decision, so let’s take an in-depth look at how these two popular SUVs measure up across various categories.

At a Glance

When comparing these two midsize SUVs, the 2025 Mazda CX-70 stands out with a lower starting price of $40,445 (nearly $2,000 less than the Passport’s $42,400 base model) while delivering superior fuel economy at 25 combined MPG thanks to its innovative mild hybrid electric powertrain, which outperforms the Passport’s traditional 6.5-liter V6 engine by 4 MPG despite both producing the same 280 horsepower. On top of that, the CX-70 offers an exclusive PHEV variant that provides up to 26 miles of all-electric driving range. Meanwhile, the Honda Passport counters with a slight edge in ground clearance (8.1 inches versus 8.0) and a standard moonroof across all trims, though both vehicles come with standard all-wheel drive for confident handling in various conditions.

Exterior & Dimensions

When it comes to exterior and size, the 2025 Mazda CX-70 and Honda Passport each present distinct exterior profiles and dimensional advantages:

Exterior Size

• Length:The CX-70 cuts an imposing figure with its substantial 201.6-inch length, which outstrips the Honda Passport’s 189.1-inch length.
• Width: At 84.9 inches wide, the CX-70 is also wider than the Passport.
• Height: The 2025 CX-70 maintains a sleek height of 68.2 inches while the Honda Passport is a bit taller at 72.2 inches.
• Ground clearance: As mentioned previously, the CX-70 features a ground clearance of 8 inches, which is ever so slightly smaller than the Passport’s 8.1 inches of ground clearance.

Cargo Space

When it comes to cargo capacity, the CX-70 significantly outshines the Passport with 75.3 cubic feet of total cargo volume compared to the Passport’s 50.5 cubic feet, giving the CX-70 a substantial 49% advantage in storage space for your gear and groceries.

Interior & Technology Features

Inside both vehicles, you’ll find thoughtful design and technology features, but with notable differences in execution. The 2025 CX-70 offers a premium cabin experience with standard leather-trimmed seats, which can be upgraded to luxurious Nappa leather in higher trims and flexible 60/40 split fold-down reclining second-row seats. The Honda Passport, on the otherhand, also features standard leather-trimmed seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel but without the Nappa leather option. Additionally, its 60/40 split-folding second-row seats allow for added storage and flexibility.

Technology Features

Technology takes center stage with the 2025 CX-70’s impressive 12.3-inch full-color center display, which is significantly larger than the Passport’s 8-inch touchscreen. Audio enthusiasts will appreciate the CX-70’s standard 8-speaker system with an available 12-speaker Bose premium audio upgrade that outshines the Passport’s 7-speaker standard system with 10-speaker upgrade option. Both vehicles provide 12-V power outlets, though the CX-70 offers an available 150-watt accessory outlet for additional power needs.

Performance Features

Performance is where these two SUVs take distinctly different approaches:

• Engine: The 2025 CX-70 features Mazda’s e-SKYACTIV®-G 3.3L inline 6 turbo engine across all trims while the Honda Passport relies on a 6.5-liter V6 engine.
• Horsepower: Both SUVs produce 280 hp.
• Towing capacity: The CX-70 offers up to 5,000 lbs of towing capacity, which is matched by the Passport.
• Drive modes: The CX-70 offers Sport and Off-Road modes with an available Towing mode on higher trims, while the Passport offers slightly fewer with just Snow, Sand, and Mud modes.
• MPG: The CX-70 features MPG of 24/28/25, which beats out the Passport’s MPG of 19/24/21.

Safety Features

Both manufacturers prioritize safety, but with different feature sets and recognition:

Mazda CX-70

The Mazda CX-70 earned the coveted 2025 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ award—the highest safety recognition in the industry. Its comprehensive iACTIVESENSE safety suite includes expected features like Dynamic Stability Control, Traction Control, and Blind Spot Monitoring, but also adds advanced technologies like Vehicle Exit Warning and a 360-degree view monitor. Additional safety features include Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane-keep Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go, and front/rear parking sensors. The CX-70 also protects against theft with an engine-immobilizer system.

Honda Passport

The Honda Passport counters with its Honda Sensing safety suite, which includes Collision Mitigation Braking, Road Departure Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Keeping Assist. It also features a Multi-Angle Rearview Camera with Dynamic Guidelines and Vehicle Stability Assist with Traction Control. While comprehensive, the Passport lacks some of the CX-70’s more advanced safety features like the 360-degree view monitor and Vehicle Exit Warning.

Trims & Pricing

When it comes to available options, both vehicles offer multiple trim levels to suit various preferences and budgets

Mazda CX-70 Trims

• 3.3 Turbo Preferred (starting MSRP: $40,445)
• 3.3 Turbo Premium (starting MSRP: $45,900)
• 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus (starting MSRP: $48,900)
• 3.3 Turbo S Premium (starting MSRP: $52,450)
• 3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus (starting MSRP: $55,950)

Honda Pilot Trims

• EX-L (starting MSRP: $42,400)
• TrailSport (starting MSRP: $45,000)
• Black Edition (starting MSRP: $48,470)

Who Comes Out the Winner?

After thorough comparison, the 2025 Mazda CX-70 emerges as the superior choice for most midsize SUV shoppers – it offers better fuel efficiency (25 MPG combined vs. 21 MPG), significantly more cargo space (75.3 cubic feet vs. 50.5 cubic feet), a lower starting price ($40,445 vs. $42,400), and the prestigious 2025 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ designation. The CX-70 further distinguishes itself with its standard AWD, advanced technology features including a larger 12.3″ display (vs. 8″ in the Pilot), and a PHEV option for those seeking to reduce their environmental footprint. While the Honda Pilot is certainly a capable vehicle with Honda’s reputation for reliability, the CX-70 simply delivers more value, technology, safety, and efficiency per dollar.

Shop the 2025 CX-70 with Independence Mazda!

Ready to experience the 2025 Mazda CX-70 in person? Visit us at Independence Mazda in Charlotte, NC for a test drive today. Our knowledgeable staff will help you explore all the features and options to find the perfect CX-70 configuration for your lifestyle. Get in touch with our team our visit our showroom in person today. Your new Mazda adventure awaits!