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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  Great Car - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By petera - January 10 - 10:16 pm

  We bought this car to replace a Honda Accord which we were sorry to see go but needed AWD. To cut a long story short we tried a number of cars we tried a number of smaller crossovers including a CX-7, and then my wife sat in a CX-9 they had on the lot. 1 hour later we owned it. It was just head and shoulders over anything else we had looked at in terms of quality, performance and out and out coolness. Interior is stunning, well thought out and comfortable. Leg room is generous as is room for cargo. Car is easy to drive and feels a lot smaller than it really is. While it wont break any records on the 1/4 mile it is plenty powerful enough for most situations.

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  Great Car for Families - 2009 Mazda CX-9
  By Oklahoma Owner - December 27 - 10:40 am

  Drove home in intense storm, but CX-9 took it all in stride while other cars pulled to the side. Seats are outstanding for long hauls. Able to have normal conversations at freeway speeds. Car never feels tippy despite having 8 inches of ground clearance. At 200 inches, it is a long vehicle, but doesnt feel that way. Bose stereo is weak on highs, but midrange sounds good when connected to an ipod. Feels german in driving experience.

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  Love it! - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By A Chef - December 8 - 12:33 pm

  We looked at tons of crossovers & suvs in this price range - and for the money it doesnt get ANY better than this car. I almost went with the more expensive GMC Acadia but after driving this - the GMC felt like a tinker toy in comparison! This is a very well made, well appointed and stylish car. I am pleasantly surprised at the gas mileage. This is basically a luxury crossover for about $15k less than the volvo, lexus or cadillac counterparts. My husband and I are starting a family this year and he calls this my "sexy mom car" =)

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  All its cracked up to be! - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By Bo - December 5 - 10:06 pm

  I did a lot of research before purchasing the 08 CX9. Looked at Acura, Lexus, Volvo and Cadi. The X9 is by far the best. I cant believe there a not more of these on the road. I have never owned a Mazda before but if this continues to meet my standards I will buy another. Handling excellent! Style Awesome! Get up and go, yes! I get a lot of looks with this car. I bought it for my wife but I want to drive it too. I traded in a Cadi SRX and this is much better. Great car, you wont be disappointed!

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  Accident - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By SB Soccer mom - December 5 - 6:06 pm

  I was hit on the passenger side by a someone who ran a red light. The impact was so hard it rolled my car. I walked away with only a sprain!! Highly recommend this vehicle for safety!! I will get another CX-9!

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  WOW.... - 2011 Mazda CX-9
  By elise79 - November 20 - 7:25 am

  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.

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  Glad we waited - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By dmssksan - November 19 - 8:10 pm

  I started researching SUVs and crossovers 6 months ago and test drove the Lexus, Audi and BMW. The CX-9 was the last vehicle I drove and hands down it was the best. Mazda has really given us a beatuiful and smooth vehicle to drive. All the other car manufacturers should look at the CX-9 as a role model.

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  WOW - A MUST DRIVE - 2009 Mazda CX-9
  By Larry - November 18 - 11:33 am

  After several months of looking at all SUVs and X-overs I selected the CX-9. Am I glad I did - the build quality, workmanship, features, value, fuel economy (first 240 miles city with 62 miles freeway got 18.5 MPG!!), fun to drive, and performance all add up to a best in class up and down the price scale. Much better than all contenders. This is a little known gem that will have a very bright future as soon as folks get to know and see them on the road. Outstanding lines, sports car handling, family friendly, equally at home in a tux or Levis. This is a rare find in a market cluttered with "me too" and "ordinary offerings". A must drive if you are in the market, no disappointments here.

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  Love my CX-9 - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By John Stark - November 15 - 11:56 pm

  I test drove the 2010 CX-9, Highlander, Acadia and Flex. Key requirement was 3rd row of seats and fun to drive. After driving and researching all it came down to the Highlander and CX-9. Mazda CX-9 won on these items: - 3rd row is split. - More room behind 3rd row. Highlander barely had room for a row of groceries. - Access to 3rd row was WAY easier for the munchkins and adults than the Higlander. - Cx-9 is was more fun to drive. I liked the Highlander, but the Mazda has way more performance. Engine is smooth and shifts almost stealth. - Fit and finish is solid. Very nice looking car.

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  Sharp car - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By hk - November 13 - 8:46 am

  Very nice looking and driving car for SUV wife loves it in black on black leather very plush only complaint is a little better fuel mileage tons of space though! For the money nothing comes close, tried Honda Pilot , what an over rated ride so crappy and plasticy. Toyota cost more and I have more room in the Mazda and it is sharper looking!