Overview & Reviews

Mazda CX-9, Crossover SUV

The only vehicles capable of carrying seven adults or lots of cargo used to be minivans, traditional full-size SUVs and passenger vans. But the full-size crossover SUV (sometimes referred to as CUV) has been a game-changer, providing the space of a large SUV, respectable fuel economy and handling, and exterior styling that doesn't immediately scream "diapers!" Mazda's entrant in this segment is the stylish yet practical CX-9.

The Mazda CX-9 combines a spacious interior that can be lavishly appointed along with the sporty handling characteristics that Mazdas are known for. Though the CX-9 shares its basic architecture and engine with the Ford Edge, the Mazda feels much better executed, with superior driving dynamics and a more athletic feel despite its larger size.

Current Mazda CX-9
The Mazda CX-9 is available in Sport, Touring and Grand Touring trims. All are powered by a 273-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 matched to a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional on all trims.

The base Sport trim includes 18-inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning, a multifunction tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth and a six-speaker sound system. Safety features include antilock brakes, stability control and side curtain airbags. Stepping up to the Touring trim brings heated and powered front seats, leather upholstery, a blind-spot monitoring system, rear parking sensors and a rearview camera.

The Grand Touring model includes 20-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a power rear liftgate, memory settings for the driver seat and keyless ignition/entry. Notable options include a Bose stereo, a navigation system, a towing package, a sunroof and a rear seat entertainment system.

Seven-passenger seating is standard on all Mazda CX-9s. The prospect of hauling around seven people can be daunting, but this crossover SUV's third row can hold actual adults, though you'll have to slide the second-row seats forward, making legroom tight for both rows. Also, third-row headroom is limited. On the bright side, access to the rear is relatively painless thanks to an easy-to-use latch that lets you slide past the second row into the back. With the second- and third rows folded flat, the CX-9 can carry 101 cubic feet of cargo.

On the road, we've found that the Mazda CX-9 is fun to drive. The carlike unibody construction and four-wheel independent suspension provide sporting responses, with minimal body roll and controlled ride motions. The steering is surprisingly responsive and the effort is weighted just right. However, the CX-9's ride quality (particularly with the Grand Touring's 20-inch wheels) is rather firm by segment standards.

Used Mazda CX-9 Models
The CX-9 was introduced for 2007. In its debut year, the CX-9 was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 that made 263 hp and 249 pound-feet of torque. The current 3.7-liter V6 replaced the 3.5 in '08, but the original CX-9 was hardly lacking for power, so we wouldn't discourage anyone from purchasing a used example. In the years since, Mazda has made only minor adjustments to the CX-9's exterior styling and availability of standard and optional features.

User Reviews:

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  Expensive car to own - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By Javier Garcia - June 30 - 1:49 am

  I bought this car used in 2008 one year after manufacturing. The performance of this car was poor. It was extremely expensive to own since most repairs were extreme and expensive. This will be my last MAZDA. I will not buy another MAZDA as long as FORD is part owner. I have own other Japanese cars and had not problems. I love to keep my cars for at least 10 years. I had hondas, BMW, Mercedes benz, and Isuzzo Trooper and never had as many problems as I had with the MAZDA. I invested about about 50% of the original speaker price in the 7 years I have own the car. I am trying to make it last another 3 years. But I do not think MAZDA can not last.

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  STAY AWAY! - 2012 Mazda CX-9
  By esso - August 4 - 7:20 pm

  I would never buy another Mazda again. After a month the driver seat started making squeaking noise. Try to schedule an appointment with Mazda dealership, the hell freeze sooner than youll get an appointment. Everyone is rude, unprofessional. I even contacted Mazda Corporate and did not get anywhere. As of this time I am planning to sell the car and buy something American. Horrible car company, horrible customer support. What good is their warranty, when you cannot get any help. The only thing what you get from Mazda is a LEMON. I have tied a bag of lemons to my car and I am driving around our town like that, to let everyone know not to buy one.

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  Stay away from this Car and all following years - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By Anthony Chestnut - November 5 - 4:25 pm

  I got the 2007 as a used car 2013. i purchased this car from a dealership and they perform no working on the car. I had to give the car a full check up from my pocket. I had to change the tires. I can understand these situations but when you hear about. Now I am hearing the Mazda dealer ship they have to check the suspension and the same day the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened investigation into suspension it starts to make you wonder if Mazda is hiding something. It seems like they are selling a lemon hear. http://www.edmunds.com/car-news/feds-probe-2007-08-mazda-cx-9-after-suspension-complaints.html

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  But a Toyota or Honda - 2009 Mazda CX-9
  By Matthew medley - November 6 - 3:37 am

  Poorly manufactured transmission and engineering. If you get to 100k, you will most definitely replace some very costly parts. There is zero support from Mazda. Your basically buying a tricked out Ford. I would not recommend this vehicle to my worst enemy

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  Brake Booster - Your car wont stop - 2012 Mazda CX-9
  By Cookie - October 20 - 7:26 am

  Mazda is having an issue with brake boosters in the CX-9. Mine failed today at 52K miles. I couldnt stop the car pulling out of the garage and rolled it into my side yard. I took it into the Mazda dealership, and they know theres an issue. Theres a service bulletin, and they replace the brake booster for free. I cant believe they havent recalled the car - this could cause a serious accident. There is an issue with the diaphragm in the brake booster failing in hot climates. I live in Ohio. It can get hot here, but give me a "brake" - literally. The dealership cannot tell me if the new brake booster has the same issue. Im assuming it does since Ive read about these failures happening in the CX-9 since this design was released. The car is at the dealership every 5K miles for maintenance - they didnt catch it there either. Youd think they would check since its a recurring issue. Im beyond disappointed Mazda allows the car to be on the road with this type of failure possible. I wouldnt buy this car again.