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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  CX-9 is the Mazda3 of its Class - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By MDmike - November 4 - 11:43 pm

  We got a CX-9 GT AWD a week ago, so this is my first impression. Daughter has 05 Mazda3 and Im as impressed with the CX-9 as the 3. That says a lot! I think the 3 (2.3) is the best value on four wheels. The CX-9 GT interior is superb. I drive a 98 MB E320 and the CX-9 interior equals it w/o the real wood. The materials and controls definitely feel first-rate and the doors have the vault-like sound of Mercedes as well. The ride & shifter are also Teutonic and firm, which I like. More fun to drive than those we compared - Acadia & Caddy SRX 6. As a Mercedes owner, I think the CX-9 is comparable to the R-Class at $15k less! If its reliable like the 3, Mazda has another winner.

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  The Car Sold Me - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By Tim R - October 31 - 7:13 pm

  I purchased a new 2008 Mazda CX9 for my wife in Feb 2009. We were impressed by the look and ride of the car. We were blown away by the fuel economy of our car. We were expecting less than 20 miles per gallon. We are getting 22 to 23 miles per gallon. Our only sore spots with the car are the hood latch that broke very easily and the third row seat belt hooks that feld off while driving around town. Due to the great cars ride and comfort, those flaw are very minor in comparison. We will recommend and have recommend buying the CX9 to our friends and family. The power will blow you away.

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  Impressed. - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By AZzoomzoom - October 28 - 4:46 pm

  Was completely impressed with the Cx9. After searching for six months, we narrowed it down to the Volvo XC90 and the CX9. We chose the CX9 because of the available technology, comfort and style.

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  6th SUV - 2009 Mazda CX-9
  By COP31 - October 27 - 5:03 am

  This is our 6th SUV and we must say this is the best yet!!! The gas mileage is our only knock on this vehicle but it is par with all the others we have own, so we expected it! The design, comfort, and quality of a Mazda has met all of our expectations. my daughter is driving the Mazda 6. looks we are now apart of the Mazda Family and Mazda is apart of ours!

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  My CX-9 - 2012 Mazda CX-9
  By mycx9 - October 24 - 2:10 pm

  Overall, I love the car- style, handling, features, value. The gas mileage is the same as my last suv, so no surprises there. The interior is beautiful, but dust and dirt do show on the dark leather and mats. A bit surprised by the amount of plastic used on the front exterior and hope it lasts. I like that there are few chrome accents inside limiting glare - something seen in many other cars. There is however, no way to escape the amount of direct sunlight coming in when driving due west. This may have to do with windshield design and shape of the vehicle- a small price to pay for great visability. My family just came from our 1st road trip through the mountains and the car performed great!

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  Great vehicle - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By gahogs - October 23 - 9:36 pm

  After test driving the 08 Honda Pilot, 09 Honda Pilot, 08 Toyota Highlander, 08 Ford Edge, and the 08 Mazda CX-9 twice on two different occasions, it was clear to us the CX-9 was a great fit for our family. The storage behind the 3rd row is actually usable, and the leg room is great. The ride is more sports car like than the rest, and it is a sharp looking car with a superb feel behind the wheel. We think the CX-9 looks great! If in the SUV / CUV market, give the CX-9 a test drive and look.

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  Awesome Vehicle!! - 2009 Mazda CX-9
  By Mark - October 22 - 6:33 pm

  So far this vehicle has been the best car I have ever owned, and I have had them all! Comparing among, Fords,Chevys,Cadillacs,Nissan,etc.It has been my favorite hands down! Enjoyable to drive,smooth ride, comfort,handling,cargo space, this crossover is a real winner!

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  moving up in style - 2016 Mazda CX-9
  By Scott - October 14 - 5:16 am

  Just traded my 2010 cx9 for a new signature this car is amazing much better then the old one a lot quicker the turbo is great no lag at all. taking it on vacation next week I will check the mileage only issue is that the drivers power seat doesnt have enough adjustment also miss doesnt tell you what gear you are in. only in manual mode. this is the best 7 passenger suv under 45k for driving, style, comfort you could buy. I could drive this car all day long its is so nice.

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  CX-9 - nice crossover - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By roman - October 9 - 5:56 pm

  Weve had the vehicle for about two weeks now and we love it. The ride is nice and comfortable, my wife and kids love it. We were strongly considering an MDX, but after test driving the CX-9 we fell in love with it. We got a Touring package which has similar options as a basic MDX, but 10K less. I think Mazda has done a great job with the exterior design of the CX-9.

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  Great Car, avoid the GPS - 2011 Mazda CX-9
  By charles83 - September 10 - 11:59 pm

  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.