5 Star Reviews for Mazda CX-9

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.62/5 Average
562 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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:

Showing 1 through 10 of 562.00
  • Almost Bought a Pilot - 2007 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    I just bought the most beautiful CX-9: Liquid Platinum with Sand leather, AWD Grand Touring with NAV, Bose, Moonroof. I traded in a Honda Odyssey and was just about to buy the Pilot when I saw an ad for the CX-9 and decided to go "rule it out" at the dealer--Ive never been a Mazda person. One drive and I was sold, the Pilot really doesnt compare if you want a car that turns heads while hauling the kids, groceries, and gear. The gas mileage so far has been about 16 around town. The AWD has a slightly grippy feel so if you dont need it, Id stick with FWD for the slightly added pep and better fuel economy. If you are looking for a functional car with tons of style look no further!

  • Zoom This! - 2007 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    I test drove them all. I spent an entire week-end fighting off sales people until I came upon the Mazda CX-9 and I went looking for the sales person. What an incredibly beautiful automobile. I never considered Mazda in the past but they have my attention now. This car has it all and is less expensive than the over-blown German cars. I wanted to go American this time and came close with Ford Edge but Mazda beat it and all the others hands down. You wont have buyers remorse with this one folks.

  • Excellent family car - 2013 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    Recently turned in our Lexus RX 350, looking to spend a little less this time around. The car is great (its my second Madza; I also have a Mazda3). The only two things I can think of to complain about are the navigation screen is a bit small, and the interior material just feel a little cheap. But I guess they have to cut corners somewhere if Im going to save this much $$$!! Otherwise the car is great!

  • A blast to drive - 2007 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    Fun, fast, great handling. A really blast to drive. Very comfortable seating, awd seems to work well. Have had the CX-9 for 4 months, with 5K miles, no problems yet. A real head turning car as well, everyone likes the look.

  • AWESOME RIDE!!! - 2010 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    Amazing vehicle!! Bought used w/40,000 miles. Incredible used car deal! Absolutely loaded... Handles like its on rails(for a big car). Avg. 25.6 mpg on a 3 state road trip! Tons of power, and super comfortable!!Im a major Mazda fan... 03 MPV has 185,000 on it and still gets 26.5 mpg! Mazda zoom zoom thru & thru!! If u need a big family vehicle without needing a minivan...Go buy this car!

  • It survived the Dragon - 2007 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    Love this Car!! My wife and I bought a used 2007 GT this June as our future child-mobile. We have driven it all over the country in absolute comfort. As chance would have it we were in Tennessee at the Tail of the Dragon, and this CX-9 performed amazingly well. It took all of the turns beautifully. What a great car!! It fits seven adults or five and A LOT of gear. Great camping car. We looked at this and the Subaru Tribeca. In the end it wasnt even close. Highly recommended.

  • Great Vehicle - 2008 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    This is our first Mazda. It is a new 2008 and has slightly less than 1000 miles. So far, we are very pleased with the performance. We are getting about 17.2 mpg with City/highway driving. The third seat is great for the grandchildren. As you would anticipate for a big car, the acceleration is a bit sluggish and the fuel mileage is nothing to brag about. The CX-9 qualifies as a luxury vehicle.

  • Drive luxury, spend reasonably - 2010 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    Im going to sum it up for those considering a purchase. If you want to spend $45-50k on a vehicle for names sake, the you should purchase a Lexus, Infiniti, MB or Acura. They are great SUV/CUV choices from these brands. If you want the quality, amenities and sportiness of vehicles offered from these brands, but are in the $25-40k range as far as budget is concerned, then the CX-9 tops all others. We came from a Cayenne off lease and can believe how much value is packed into the CX-9. Dont even think about the Honda, Toyota, Chevy or Ford offerings at the same price (drove and priced them all). There is no comparison in regards to dollar for dollar value.

  • The Best SUV/Crossover in the market! - 2010 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    I have owned minivan, small utility vehicles, sedans and sports cars. I have to admit it, the Mazda CX-9 is the most fun, beautiful, enjoyable, pleasant vehicle I have ever driven in a long time. Our MB ML320 was not as comfortable of a ride, it was almost perfect but I didnt like the AWD all the time feature. Prefer the FWD.

  • Love my 2016 CX-9 - 2016 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    If you like performance test drive this car after others you may be looking at. There is no comparison to the CX-9 drive in this class. This baby moves. Love the interior. Super quiet and roomy. And it looks awesome! I could use some better gas mileage though but still getting used to the cars algorithms. Weirdly Mazda thinks that you need 4 full gallons as reserve in the tank. Still working through that. But overall love the upgrade from my 2010 CX-9.

Mazda CX-9 Reviews By Year:
Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area