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 New Model - 2016 Mazda CX-9
  By Phillip Sherwood - January 9 - 3:53 am

  More than satisfied with the makeover of the CX-9. Fun to drive. Handling is great. Just a quiet smooth ride. Very happy with this purchase.

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  Great Value - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By Icemahn - January 5 - 7:53 pm

  Traded our 04 Sienna in for the CX-9. Test drove an Acura MDX 08, GMC Acadia and Yukon Hybrid. CX-9 Power and handling is similar to the MDX while the third row space comparable to the Acadia. It truly provides the best of both worlds without compromising style or comfort. Mazda hit the bullseye with this one!

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  So far so good! - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By Felipe - January 4 - 4:43 pm

  This is the second review Ive ever written. I only do it when its worth it. We wanted an SUV and didnt like any of the ones available. Then we found the CX-9. It was love at first sight. Just what we wanted. Best looking SUV right now. Its huge inside. Largest wheelbase in the market. The car runs so smooth. No noise from the engine. Transmission is soft, engine powerful. It has all the features that a top of the line car has.

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  Initial review: Great! - 2013 Mazda CX-9
  By syndic8r - December 29 - 2:04 am

  I shopped around and looked at a number of reviews and test drove a number of vehicles before deciding on the CX-9 Grand Touring Tech to replace my 04 Highlander. Great vehicle for the price. The ride is very nice and although the 20s do make the ride a tad rougher (as reviewers have said), overall the ride is more than acceptable. Vehicle has good power, which is helpful as I live in a hilly area. Gas mileage is right at 18 in a mix of city and highway driving short distances each day Finish is great, quiet, tech package is very good and easy to operate. Very happy with the car.

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  Good car minus the navigation - 2013 Mazda CX-9
  By skgpo3 - December 27 - 1:57 pm

  I have owned this car for two years now. I got it when I had two kids I now have 3. Overall we have run out of room. My 65 husband puts either the driver or passenger seat all the way back causing cramping in the 2nd and third row. It creates constant fights with my kids as they then both adjust their seats trying to get more room. You cant fit 3 car seats across the 2nd row. I can barely do a Costco run with 1/2 a third row up. The navigation is horrific and always freezes leaving me to pull over and enter my destination in my cell. My husband hates my navigation and refuses to use it. When it does work, the directions are not great.

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  The Perfect Family SUV - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By Gregg Kuroda - December 26 - 7:56 am

  Having driven this vehicle for almost a year, I have to say this is the most sporty, comfortable, stylish and roomy SUV Ive owned. It has plenty of room for car seats and soccer equipment as well. It is like driving a luxury vehicle at a reasonable price. It is packed with features. The blind-spot monitoring is fantastic. Thought it would be a bother, now its a must. It has plenty of power and can go 375 miles on one tank.

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  Best of the Best - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By Heads Turner - December 22 - 9:56 am

  I considered Audi Q7, Acura MDX, 2008 Toyota Highlander, GMC Acadia, etc., but no one can come close to this vehicle in terms of performance, quality and price. This car is 100% built in Japan and proves to be the best of the best available today. This car is a true head turner. After my research for three months I bought a 2008 black on black CX9 GT AWD with Bose and moonroof. Drive it once and you will realize what you have been missing.

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  Test drive one, youll be impressed! - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By CC - December 17 - 2:00 am

  I did tons of research on crossovers and the CX9 blew away the competition. We test drove the Traverse, Flex, Subaru Tribeca & Pilot. The CX9 handles like a dream, it doesnt feel like a big SUV at all. The safety ratings are great, which we experienced firsthand- we were rear- ended within the first month. The triple-H construction lived up to its design, the other car was totaled, ours fared much better. The CX9 has the lowest percent chance of rollover among its competitors, even better than the Subaru. Dash controls are intuitive, heat & A/C work great. Lots of room for kids or adults in 2nd & 3rd rows. Seat folding is easy (the Ford and Chevy were both more difficult). Test drive one!

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  On Par with my last Suv (Murano) - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By Tap - December 11 - 7:13 pm

  Coming from a loaded 2005 Murano XE one thing I could not do without (key fob). This narrowed my search considerably. Needed the extra room and wanted a vehicle that looked slick like the Murano. Interior is awesome as well as the exterior. Front grill bugs some but not me. Love the led brake lights and the rear view camera is okay but could be a bit more detailed. The Navigation system is okay but coming from a hand held garmin it seems a bit clunky and non user friendly. The seats are not as comfortable as the Murano and the ride is on par since I came from the SE and not the SL. They should have went with Yokohama Pradas instead of duelers. So far Ive been very happy!

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  Love it! Love it! Love it! - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By Elizabeth T. - December 7 - 5:40 pm

  So far this has been BY FAR the very best car I have ever driven. I love the blind spot sensor. That really helps me feel safe when trying to change lanes. It is very quiet and I dont get all the road noise I used to get. There is some much functional space w/o a lot of wasted space. My kids love it too!