2011 Mazda CX-9 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.66/5 Average
28 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Other than a slight increase in fuel economy and the addition of speed-sensing automatic door locks, the 2011 Mazda CX-9 is unchanged.

Pros:
  • Stylish cabin
  • Easy access to spacious third row
  • Solid build quality.
  • Sporty performance
Cons:
  • Long rear doors are an issue in tight parking spaces
  • 20-inch wheels produce a stiff ride.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 28.00
  • CX-9 a Mixed Bag - 2011 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    We have had our CX-9 GT AWD now for six months and the best description I can give is a “mixed bag”. There is a lot of extras for the $ but.. After 6 months I’m wishing we would have spent a little more and made another choice. Issues include; poor mileage – I have a ’06 V-8 Yukon XL 4X4 that gets better mileage both in town and HWY. Poor Navigation. There is a lot of noise inside – wind noise, road noise, gas sloshing around in the fuel tank and after six months many new squeaks and rattles surfacing. The Bose sound is nice but too much noise to really enjoy it. Interior quality looks great but not quite refined yet. Interior leather looks great and appears to be holding up well.

  • Best AWD Crossover - 2011 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    After extensive research and test driving, we selected the CX-9. Based upon reviews, and experience with friends cars, we narrowed it down to the Highlander and the CX-9. Previously we had a Ford Explorer, and opted to not consider Ford due to the problems we had with that vehicle. GM and Honda were eliminated due to the price point (Toyota and Mazda clearly offer more value.) In the end, the Mazda won out due to its handling, and its interior space. We test drove the CX-9 and Highlander back to back, and the difference in handling curves was remarkable. We also checked out the Audi Q7. We felt that the Mazda compared favorably to the Audi in all aspects, and is priced $20k less.

  • Nice, but.... - 2011 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    Had since new, 28k miles now. I tested everything at the time, traded an 08 Pathfinder. First impression was good; comfy, good power, nice interior. I almost passed for two reasons that now have me shopping again; FWD, and steering position. I prefer RWD or AWD but wanted best fuel econ. Although torque steer is not an issue, it IS a heavy steering feel and quick acceleration out of a tight/emergency spot just spins the wheels.#2, I just cant get comfortable with steering position. The wheel is slanted too far forward, making the reach at 10/2 a stretch (Im 58"). Not enough adj to make it right for me. No lighted window/door lock swtchs, boomy sound and no flat cargo area are other gripes

  • Best 3-row CUV on the market - 2011 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    After researching the GM cousins, the new Ford Explorer, the new Toyota 4-Runner, and Honda Pilot, we gladly purchased the CX-9. Nothing compares to the Mazdas driving dynamics or what you get for the money. I highly recommend this crossover as the mid-level Touring package comes standard with power everything, leather, and a fold-flat third row. Fuel econ is decent considering the size and power. We upgraded from a 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee. There is really no comparison to be made. The CX-9 is smooth and does not feel enormous, but is more than roomy enough. The dealership did a very good deal for us as well. Thumbs up, Mazda.

  • So Far So Good - 2011 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    I bought this car at the start of February, 2011 after a good bit of research and do not have any major complaints so far. I got the sport model with power heated seats. It drives very much like a sedan and you never get the feel that you are driving a large seven passenger vehicle. I have been putting 1000 miles/mth; the mileage definitely could have been better, but i knew what i was getting into. Getting about 18.5 miles/gallon with an about 50/50 city/highway driving. I have been hearing wind noise sometimes on the highways and also there is a strange smell that shows up every few days and lasts for few minutes. Will have it checked during the first service appointment next week.

  • Best 7 Passenger SUV I could find - 2011 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    After an exhaustive search we finally decided on the CX-9 GT AWD. We looked at EVERYTHING. From Kia to Audi and everything in-between. High on the list was the BMW X5 and the Audi Q7 TDI. The Q7 was the best SUV we tested, and if money wasnt an issue thats what we would have bought. However, after driving the Mazda and seeing all the standard equipment you get for under 40K I couldnt believe it. I thought we would have to give something up in either luxury items, interior material, or ride quality, but we didnt. I really feel like we got it all in this vehicle and saved 30K over the Audi. Hats off to Mazda for making such an affordable, enjoyable vehicle to drive.

  • Transfer case go BOOM!!! - 2011 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    My wife took her our cx9 on a road trip with our 2 girls. On the way home she heard a clunk trying to back up. Then at low speeds she heard a grinding noise, pulled over and had it towed to a dealership. They said it had mice nesting near the bell housing. Today I was suppose to go get it back and the mechanic called and said he tried to back it up and CLUNK. Cracked transfer case. It will be another 2 - 3 weeks before its fixed. It looks like many other owners have had this problem. Ours only had 17k miles on it. Mazda should recall their cx9.

  • WOW.... - 2011 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    I just traded in my 2007 Honda CR-V EX-L for the CX-9 Touring. With this car we also got the Bose stereo, moon roof, power lift gate, bluetooth, and I few other bells and whistles I believe I am forgetting. We were deciding between this and the Honda Pilot EX-L, but it came down to price and options and the Honda couldnt touch the value in the CX-9. With tons more features, better styling and handling, we got the CX-9 for over $150 less per month! The interior is beautiful and there is a TON of space. The bluetooth is actually clear to those on the receiving end, something I have not experienced with any other car. The exterior is sleek and nice.

  • Great Car, avoid the GPS - 2011 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    We have had the vehicle for about 3 months, and are very satisfied. Gas milage is consistenly about 19 miles per gallon. We compared most of the 5 and 7 passenger SUVs and Crossovers. The Mazda was great on price and features. We liked the Nissans, but they did not have the seating or the storage areas. My biggest concern is the Ford motor and transmission, but it will be a couple of years before I can know if this was a problem. There are not many Mazda dealers near us, so we will be using Ford for most service and repairs.

  • Great Value, Great Crossover, Great Dealer - 2011 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    After test-driving the Traverse, Equinox, Venza, Highlander and a few others we took a look at the Mazda GT9. It was love at first site -- the test drive only reinforced our initial notion that this was the best vehicle in its class, by far. The GT9s interior is incredibly luxurious; the exterior is sleek and stylish. And its "pep" on the open road was second to none! What made the purchase even sweeter was the extent the folks at AutoWest Mazda in Roseville, CA worked with us to get us approved and in our dream car! It was by far the most pleasant of buying experiences!

Mazda CX-9 Reviews By Year:
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