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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  Amazed and delighted - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By dorenescar - August 1 - 12:56 pm

  This vehicle does it all. We can get 7 full size adults and teens in this vehicle; it is very well ventilated, creature comforts galore, drive is smooth and steering so easy, great acceleration. Never feels like a big car when youre driving. Its the ultimate trip and town vehicle, a true crossover. First tank was 18.9 mpg - amazing for such a huge and heavy vehicle. Bose sound system is first rate, kids love riding in it; tech features very easily usable; endless cup holders and lights are great for car homework. Cant recommend this one enough - its close to perfect!!

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  11,000 Mile Review - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By berad - July 27 - 8:14 am

  All in all this is a solid family hauler. I chose the Touring for the smaller rim size. Handling is very good for its class, but you will feel the bumps. We moved halfway across the country, so I had my wife two kids & two dogs in the car for 1800 miles / 28 hours of driving- the CX9 proved itself to a great car for the trip. I averaged about 24 MPG on that trip. In what I consider true suburban driving I would get about 18MPG. Now I live in a little town on the Jersey shore now and average about 14MGP in city style driving. Power is more than adequate for all but the true enthusiast and or speed demon.

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  Great Value, Great Crossover, Great Dealer - 2011 Mazda CX-9
  By nine9nine9 - July 24 - 5:33 pm

  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!

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  Best Crossover Value on the market - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By h_charles - July 21 - 10:16 pm

  Purchased as 3rd car to go with a Porsche 911. Ive always driven nothing but European sports cars, but am VERY impressed with this car. Steering is excellent for any vehicle. Handling is good for a car this big, but Mazda really needs to address the torque steer under hard acceleration in FWD models. It isnt fast, but quick enough for what it is. The interior is tasteful and well done. A few cheap plastic bits, but what do you expect at this price? This car looks and performs like a $45K car, and can be had nicely optioned for $35K. A steal at this price, it drives as well as some competitors costing $20K more. Perfect as kid carrier or a sporty SUV- - can do both well.

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  Bye bye minivan - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By hernandez fam - July 13 - 4:46 am

  Weve had a minivan for six years more than anything for the space. With two kids car seats plus grandma, we certainly use all the space. We looked at everything out there but for the money we could not find more space and comfort. Wwe love the ride and all the features in it. Mazda has put out an awsome crossover. Thank you.

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  Zoom Zoom - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By brianm1962 - July 8 - 8:20 pm

  Mazda CX-9 replaced a Volvo XC-90 in September 2008. We have been very pleased - especially with the V6 performance (note 2008 is larger engine than 2007) and comfortable yet sporty ride (even with 19" wheels) . Nav is very good. Bose stereo is pretty good, but not as good as some other high-end factory audio systems. All weather mats from the factory sit flat on the ground and dont really catch the snow and water very well. Volvo is the king of seat design, and it is too bad that Ford didnt steal more of this technology to give to Mazda. Gas mileage is reasonable for a truck this size. Tons of room.

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  Big Zoom Zoom - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By Drchuck - July 8 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle will fool ya. Its competent on the road, and I can get about 25.7 on cruise at 70-72 mph. I was surprised by that. I stand about 66" and have plenty of room, both head and leg. The tri-zone AC is one of the great features, and it works well. One area that impressed me was the TPM system. I picked up a nail through the sidewall, of course, and the system told me I had a problem very quickly. I am the principal driver (hers is a Prius) and our fleet average on the highway is about 37.5. She wanted me to get the Lexus, but its too tight for a tall driver, and I saved a lot of cash. I look forward to driving this CX at every opportunity.

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  True Crossover - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By EtoileBrilliant - July 4 - 1:06 pm

  Much better looking than in the pictures. I got Sand on Black. Current car couldnt get three child seats across the back. Moreover, with 7 month old, wanted option to have adult in second row to administer bottle. Wife didnt want SUV, I didnt want minivan - perfect compromise. Whilst not quite BMW interior, its probably up there with Passat top of the line, with Passat pricing. Parked next to Q7 in city garage, could barely distinguish the two side-by-side.

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  Things to consider before purchasing - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By ddb1 - June 22 - 7:24 pm

  After owning for 16 months, the Cons, especially #1, outweigh the Pros. Cons - Passenger side air bag turns off when anyone <105ish lbs sits there. Taken it to the dealer & they say theres nothing they can do about it. This leaves my light passengers completely unprotected. Should be a recall. - Front defrost is terribly designed - doesnt span the length of the windshield & sits too far away from the base of the window. Wipers freeze over and have to be manually snapped in a snow storm. - Sub par radio reception - Hatchback too low. 61" husband hits head A LOT - Highway MPG = 19 at best - Terrible leather quality Pro - Excellent 4 wheel drive - Price - Super roomy

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  Great performance and style - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By pmb - June 22 - 5:33 pm

  First of all, this is a great vehicle for the price paid. It offers a lot when compared to premium vehicles. Bluetooth, moonroof, Sirius, blind spot monitoring, 20 inch wheels, heated leather seats, innovative styling, beautiful gauges, back up camera, auto. rear hatch, auto dimming mirrors, tire pressure monitoring, 0% financing and more. Best of all it is fun to drive and has good cargo capacity and can be made better by adding more driver storage bins or compartments. Gas mileage can be better but I average 21.5 city/hwy. combined. Driven 7000+ miles w/o any issues. I recommend this over Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, GMC Acadia, Chevy Traverse, Kia and Hyundai. Indeed a Great buy!