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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  Best decision - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By tamcat - May 18 - 12:50 am

  I have been looking at buying an SUV off and on for five years, but I was waiting to see one that would have everything I wanted and be a great deal at the same time! The reviews on this website helped me tremendously. I also looked at the VW Toureg, Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Lexus RX, and found the perfect one with this. The third row folds flat really easily with the headrests on. Has every luxury and comfort items the others have, plus some.

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  A tall-roomy sports sedan - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By LSRHAR - May 13 - 3:33 am

  Ive had my new CX-9 for about a month and can’t say enough good things about it. This rather large vehicle handles like a sports sedan. I have a Lincoln MKZ and I think the Mazda CX-9 is every bit as good in every respect. The ride is quiet, taut with little lean in the curves. No blind spots looking aft – the view through the back doors is like looking through a picture window. The CX-9 has already drawn over a couple of my neighbors with lots of questions and favorable comments. In short, I’m a very happy camper especially when you compare the cost of the Mazda CX-9 to a comparable Audi or Acura of equal size and equipment - $1,000s LESS.

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  Awesome inside and out - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By HMAC - May 8 - 7:06 am

  Just picked -up the vehicle from the dealership.Traded in our sienna minivan,came out to be one of my best decisions.Tried going to pilot but cant stand the boxy look, the nose looks like a bulldog.Highlander is ok but on the small side. I love how the cx-9 looks from inside and out. Very comfortable ride,very smooth transmission. Manumatic shift is great,makes it more sporty feel.20" is awesome adds on the vehicles handsome look,BSM is great too.Interior finish and cockpit looks classy. Definitely this mazda is a keeper.

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  Stormy Blue GT - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By crazybus - April 27 - 4:46 pm

  We came out of a 2003 MDX, and this is bigger, more comfortable, and has more bells and whistles - all for less money!

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  Excellent Vehicle to drive - 2013 Mazda CX-9
  By jmorana - April 26 - 4:55 pm

  The Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring that I recently bought is awesome. Nice feeling when you drive it, superior technology package, comfort and have 7 seats!!! . Thanks to George Dupuy who took the time to show this excellent vehicle to my wife with all the details. The test drive was a great experience to make the final decision to buy this car.

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  LOVE IT! - 2011 Mazda CX-9
  By gabswiss - April 23 - 6:33 pm

  We traded-in our 2007 CX-7 and are not looking back (lots of problems with it) This car handle as good as the CX-7 even being heavier/bigger so I was pleansantly surprised by that. The interior is of high quality as you can see on the stitched leather seats. Its nice having extra room and all these cool options (rear view camera,blind-spot monitor,power lift gate,Bose Audio,GPS...) Only 2500miles on it so far so I cant comment on the reliability. We got the Black GT FWD model with Navigation/Bose audio/Power lift gate/Moonroof/Towing prep packages. Real cost was ~$36500 after all taxes/fees (we ended up paying a little less with the trade-in)

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  Love at first drive. - 2016 Mazda CX-9
  By Mike LaRusso - April 5 - 2:19 pm

  Best handling SUV Ive ever been in. Feels like Im driving my 6 GT! Beautiful in and out.

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  mommymobile - 2009 Mazda CX-9
  By Cris - March 29 - 9:06 am

  So far so good, but it has only been a month. Im so glad that I didnt get the Highlander. The Madza is more agile and less truck like to me. So far no buyers remorse, just hoping the reliability factor is as good as Toyota and Honda.

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  Stands Out in the crowd - 2009 Mazda CX-9
  By Mr. T - March 3 - 12:43 am

  I have 09 Copper Red GT AWD. Looks way more luxurious than its price. Interior space and comfort is excellent even for the 3rd row. We fit 8 easily. Interior is comparable to Lexus. probably Only crossover SUV having leather-trimmed dashboard with Wood trims (not just plastics). Many High-end features are standard (tri-zone climate control, bluetooth,18" alloys, sunroof/Bose option) for even basic trim levels but High-end Trims missing some basic features like Anti-glare side mirrors, compass, rear-view camera on mirror(i.e w/o Navigation). This is my only complaint. Overall, Great Pickup Great Style.

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  I compared the CX-9 to everything else - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By 67stang - February 14 - 7:10 pm

  I test drove the Edge, Lexus RX, Veracruz, and Enclave. The extra room in the rear of the CX-9 ultimately sealed the deal. Dont get me wrong, I love the way the CX-9 drives and its hip looks, but the family needed a little more room than the other SUVs that I test drove. If you get the CX-9 you will be very satisified!