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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  Whats Not To Love? - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By John In NJ - March 12 - 10:03 pm

  Got my new CX-9 about a week ago and am still learning about all the wonderful features. It has a firm, sporty ride that doesnt insulate the driver from the road. While visibility is very good for an SUV, the Blind Spot Monitors are superb. Smooth shifting transmission couples with a powerful responsive engine. Interior fit and finish is first rate.

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  The Mazda CX-9 is our favorite! - 2009 Mazda CX-9
  By Kelli Bells - March 12 - 12:53 pm

  We did a lot of looking around and test driving. We liked the Ford Flex, Buick Enclave, and GMC Acadia, but the Mazda CX-9 was just a better deal all around. We were able to get more options for the price than we could have with the others. It has a sporty body style, and the 20" rims just sweeten the deal! The 2nd row can adjust, so you can move the seats up to make extra room for the 3rd row. The 2nd row seats also partially recline which is a favorite feature for my kids. This car is definitely fun to drive. Its smooth! Even with 20" wheels, its still a smooth and comfortable ride. If looking at the CX-9, definitely check out the Grand Touring, the options are great!!

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  Graceful Mile Muncher - 2017 Mazda CX-9
  By Steve Clark - March 6 - 3:39 pm

  I recently got to spend a week driving the new 2017 Mazda CX-9 Signature Edition. Initially I didnt have high hopes. You see, Im a sports car guy. The CX-9 is an SUV and we all know how well SUVs handle, right? However, I decided to approach it with an open mind and hoped some redeeming quality would pique my interest. The exterior was surprisingly attractive - not your typical slab-sided SUV or "look-at-my-cray-cray-design" crossover. Instead, it was an elegantly styled SUV body with very artistic details. Overall, Id call it "wind-sculpted." Throughout the week, I found myself looking at other SUV drivers with pity, wondering how they could stand driving those bland boxes when something this smart looking was available. And as much as I liked the exterior, the interior was even MORE attractive: black carpeting, auburn red leather seats, piano black panels, chrome bits for accent, and rosewood switch bezels on the doors. It has to be the most beautiful and inviting interior Ive ever been in. Its the kind of interior that makes you want to stay just a bit longer. When I was informed that it only had a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, I immediately expected that it was going to be underpowered but Mazdas SkyActiv technology that they keep touting is evidently a real thing and not just a marketing ploy because the CX-9 never really felt underpowered to me. Sure, it wasnt going to win any drag races but it was quick to reach the speed limit and once at speed, it offered plenty of power for passing and overtaking. But what really amazed me and changed my mind about the CX-9 was the handling. After driving around for a few days, getting comfortable with it, I got a little bored and decided to push it a little down some backroads near my house that had a nice mix of curves and hills. Selecting "Sport" mode on the center console, I got kind of aggressive with it and drove it more like a sports car. And the CX-9 never batted an eye. It gracefully glided through the curves like no SUV Ive ever driven. The engine and transmission were responsive to my driving style, helping me get the most out of the car, and when I needed to slow down fast, the anti-lock brakes did a superb job of controllably and confidently slowing it down. Ive always known Mazda for the Miata, but it appears that even their more pedestrian people movers have that same sporting DNA that people who love to drive look for. On top of that, Mazda loaded the CX-9 with a raft of safety technology to keep you in your lane, warn you of blind spot drivers and cross traffic as you back up in parking lots, and many other things. When the week was up, I was thoroughly impressed with this vehicle and I know that if I ever need an SUV, Mazda will be the first (and probably ONLY) brand I look at. The only thing I could have wanted on the car would be paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. It would have made it even more fun to drive and a little less SUV-ish. Still, overall, its a winner. Very nicely done, Mazda. Very nicely done.

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  Wish I knew better - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By Scott - March 5 - 3:56 pm

  Love the car. Definitely best in class. Then the problems started. Heated seats stay on and wont go off until the battery dies. Mazda has no solution. Cant get the same answer from the dealer and Mazda corporate. Depending on you you listen to - its a faulty design - and Mazda is working on a solution. My issue is that this problem has been around since October. Why did Mazda knowingly sell me a car with features that they knew did not work? If you expect the manufacturer to be there to support you when you have problems - this is not the car for you!

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  I now understand zoom-zoom - 2009 Mazda CX-9
  By Dave in N.Texas - February 20 - 2:40 am

  Its hard to believe this is an SUV. It handles superbly and feels solid as a rock. Im comfortable knowing my wife and kids use this full time. Much better than the competition for handling/ride at this price level. Surprisingly smooth and comfortable but could still use some improvements comfort wise. A superb value though all things considered. Hopefully reliability will be better than predicted and compare better with Toyota and others.

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  Head and Shoulders above the rest - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By fun4zoom - February 16 - 12:46 am

  We are absolutely thrilled with our GT CX 9 . We compared to several others-- Lexus, Acura, Toyota, Honda ect and this is by far the best value for the money! The Navigation, Bluetooth are easy to use. The interior finishes are classy and comfortable. All in all a real headturner! It is our first Mazda and definitely would purchase all over again! Best car Ive ever owned---from a former Lexus, Honda and Toyota owner. I am converted to Mazda s . Fun to drive and a smooth ride!

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  Car Ride, SUV Room, Zoom Zoom - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By jayu - February 6 - 5:56 am

  Absolutely love this vehicle. I drove all of the other equivalents with a 3rd row seat prior to purchasing (Acadia, Pathfinder, Outlook, Pilot) and found this to be the best choice in terms of ride, styling, etc.

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  Get one... - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By LoyalMazdaOwner - January 23 - 7:03 pm

  Not much to say other than if youre looking for a solid crossover with 3rd row seating, buy this vehicle! We have had the Grand Touring AWD for 4 months now, and absolutely love it. This is my 4th Mazda and I would put them up against Nissan and Toyota (before their recent woes) for overall quality/value. We replaced a Ford Eddie Bauer 4x4 Explorer and the comfort/ride of the CX-9 is superior, from the roomy cabin to the smooth transmission and solid quality feel of interior accessories.

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  Kudos to Mazda - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By Mike - January 12 - 12:43 pm

  The first word that comes to mind is fun!! I mean most SUV are fun to drive off road but rarely can you find 1 that handles so sporty on pavement.

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  What a wise decision. - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By elcesarmaneja - January 11 - 11:05 am

  This is a car with the best of both world from the SUV and the Mini van. All compacted on a sporty car. The suspension is rigid enough to give extraordinary maneuverability without sacrificing comfort. The traction control make it very dependable, even taking off on a wet pavement on a tight turn (I tested that many times in Florida rains) The car has an incredible throttle that pair with many smaller fast cars. I am in my late 30s but every once in a while I enjoy a quick star form a stop point. I carried today my girls bike, my boys trike and stroller and a couple of dinning chairs an I still had room in the back.