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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  Left my family stranded on the highway - 2012 Mazda CX-9
  By konigsmark - February 25 - 10:59 am

  So far our experience has been awful. First, we live 5 hours from the closest Mazda Dealership. So I drove down early in the morning and bought the 2012 with 26 miles on the car total. On the way home, I start smelling gasoline. I figured it must be a new car smell, Ive never owned a new car. Then the next day after purchasing the vehicle, the transfer case explodes on the highway. The car is filled with my family and we were out of cell phone range. Thankfully, some people stopped to help and a couple hours later our brand new car was towed to Pueblo, Colorado (5 hours away) to be repaired. I just want a safe car for my family.

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  Honeymoon ended - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By jlenart - February 12 - 9:07 pm

  This car is a great style option for those that want the 3rd row, 4-wheel drive and NOT a minivan. The first 20k miles was fine but after that it was really really bad. To qualify, we changed the oil and did ALL dealer service as recommended - never missed a beat and from 20k-60k we had so many issues - rust on the back hatch door even though we paid $1500 for an addl paint warranty, window and body liners fell off, roof black plastic pieces came off, the rear wheel bearings went, then the strut, the interior fell apart, etc etc. NIGHTMARE. So buy it for >2 years and then DUMP IT. The warranty and the dealer dont support their product so DON"T buy any addl warranties!!!

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  Design Flaws - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By Jason - December 18 - 11:20 pm

  A few areas have made us not pleased with our choice. Gas mileage is much less than advertised. The car is too heavy - sluggish when passing on highway or going up hill, poor gas mileage. There is a design flaw with the doors. They are big, unnecessarily heavy, and balanced wrong. When parked level, they will naturally fall hard to a full open position. As the doors are so big, they will catch any wind and open hard. The check strap on the door is under-engineered for such a heavy door. Within 45 days, the check strap broke, the door slammed back into car body. $1500 damage and Mazda will not even return phone calls or acknowledge issue. Not happy with the CX9 or Mazda, give both a pass.