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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  Mazda CX-9 GT is performer & stylish - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By pmb - June 18 - 11:36 am

  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!

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  Used CX-9 for family - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By Boogs SUV - June 16 - 3:13 pm

  I bought this vehicle because my wife and I need a bigger car. I had a Toyota Matrix but with a car seat in the back made for a tight fit along with the stroller. We have had this suv for about 3 weeks now and love it. We have no complaints except for gas mileage. But cant do anything about that its an SUV not a four cylinder. Also big BLIND SPOTS but fixed it with buying a wide rear view mirror.

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  SUV of the year - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By PB - June 13 - 7:16 pm

  This is the best SUV that I have ever owned. The 6 speed is as smooth as a high end luxury car and the car never fails to find the perfect gear. I am thankful for the gear indicator in the gauges because sometimes you have no idea what gear you are in because the shifting is so smooth; even at high speeds and acceleration. Its quick, comfortable and fun to drive. The bluetooth is great and works well. The 20 inch wheels perform great in the mountains but the ride is bumpy in everyday driving due to the smaller side walls in these larger tires. Tight turning radius makes for easy maneuverability. The keyless entry and ignition work well and is a must have. Very easy to access 3rd row

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  Excellent - didnt need the minivan - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By amcdad - June 12 - 10:23 am

  With 2 kids and occasional visiting parents we were looking at Odyssey or Sienna. But the cargo room, third row (parents fit comfortably), accessibility to third row (brilliant design) and excellent handling and power (for its size) of the CX-9 convinced us we could avoid the minivan. Two months later, we love it - it beats the the Pilot, the Highlander and the Acadia/Outlook. We got leather, DVD, NAV, 300 watt Bose, Sirius, and 20 inch wheels!

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  Awesome SUV - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By SC Bill - June 12 - 2:13 am

  We looked at Pilot, Highlander, Volvo C-90, Lexus and others. CX-9 Grand Touring, in my opinion, blew them away. Only have 200 miles on it, so there is still much to learn. It was immediately comfortable and familiar to drive. Very car-like, "zoom-zoom philosophy" is very evident. It is easy and fun to drive, and size is not apparent until it is time to park it, or wash it! Dashboard at night, for gadget-freaks, is like piloting the space shuttle. Nav is to a large degree voice activated, some dealers didnt seem to understand that. I currently own a 6 sp Acura CL- S and find every excuse I can to borrow my wifes CX-9. Do yourself a favor - test drive it!!

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  HANDS DOWN - BEST IN CLASS!!! - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By Mazzy - June 9 - 3:56 am

  Had to do my research and Im glad I did! The CX-9 is by far the best value for your $. Bought the GT w/Bose/Moonroof & Power Liftgate pkg. At first i thought i didnt need a power liftgate. Boy was i wrong. Its a must especially with a baby. I also own a Lexus ES300 and i didnt think i would find a more comfortable ride..until now. The CX-9 is all i had hoped for & more. Personally, the CX-9 destroyed the Highlander(3rd row impostor),Pilot, Murano. Skeptics out there looking for a roomy, styling, SUV check out the Mazda CX-9. Youll see and feel the difference. Lastly-Mazda is not owned by Ford. Fords stake in Mazda is 13% & every CX-9 comes from Japan.

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  Zoom ZOOM.. love my CX-9 - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By Jas J. - June 3 - 7:20 pm

  I hesitatingly bought my first Mazda (CX-9) and I can honestly say it is one of the best purchases I have ever made. It looks and drives better than any other vehicle I have owned previously. Looked at highlander, pathfinder and pilot. This one seemed like a no brainer. Looks like a luxury vehicle, feels like a luxury vehicle without the hurt of the price tag.

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  Best Sporty 3-row CUV - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By ceric - May 30 - 6:46 am

  I compared Highlander before CX9. The 3rd row of Highlander is a joke. CX9 is the best deal in a feature-packed package with sporty handling. In short, CX9 drives like a BMW X5 at 1/2 price with more room.

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  Zoom-Zoom? - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By shailesh - May 24 - 3:10 am

  Bought this vehicle brand new from the dealership. The sales rep was extremely knowledgable about this vehicle. I added a remote starter, all weather mats, Lojack and rear cargo mat. The cargo cover cannot be installed due to remote closing gate. Mazda has done a superb job of putting this vehicle together, extensive list of accessories and safety features are standard in this particular model.The car is riding very well (only 200 miles so far!), sound system is unbelievable. The steering response for a crossover suv is excellent. The engine noise and the cabin noise is barely noticeable. Acceleration with the 273 hp engine is more then adequate. So far no complaints.

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  Beware of sunroofs and drainage flaws all years and models. - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By disapointed10 - May 10 - 3:04 pm

  When we bought this car it was crossover of the year. I have always enjoyed the car until the on board computer went bad. We spent $750.00 to have a new on put in and one week to the day it went out again. My husband thought something was shorting it out and sure enough we were told by Mazda service that Mazdas with sunroof tended to have fir tree needles plug up the drain tubes and the water build up would short out the computer. I contacted Mazda corporate wanting to know why NO mention of this was available to potential or new car owners. I was told it was not a design flaw and the service folks should know about it. But no one ever told us so we are out approximately $1,100.00