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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  Awesome car, buying process took way to long - 2018 Mazda CX-9
  By Trent Townsend - October 11 - 3:29 am

  I have been a Mazda fan and owned a lot of Mazda vehicles over the years, I will say that the 2018 CX-9 is the best so far. Comfortable, great ride, good power. lots of room. Overall just a awesome car. We purchased the car from Classic Of Denton in Texas. Don Johnson was the sales rep and he did a great job, highly recommend him for your next purchase. Now lets talk about all the BS games dealerships play. We arrived around noon and left around 5. One thing after another, "i cant sell a car that cheap, We are losing money on this car, we are processing the paperwork......" the list went on and on. Its not the sales guys fault, its the process the dealerships build in to wear you down.I hate the process. Finance, what a high pressure sales environment, 10 grand down and he insisted I needed GAP insurance, if this car depreciates fast enough for me to need GAP insurance that says the car is bad. extended warranty, paint chip protection,,,, would not stop, Process took 3 times as long as it should have because of all the repeated high pressure sales techniques. I am glad I bought the car, I am happy with Don Johnson but classic needs to understand my time is valuable. next time if I am not signing papers within an hour I am out of there.

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  Best luxury SUV for the money - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By RobbieT. - October 11 - 1:06 am

  My wife and I traded in an 03 Acura MDX and test drove the 08 MDX, Lexus RX 350, and the Infiniti FX 35 and had seen the Mazda CX 9 at the Houston auto show and decided to stop in to take a quick look at it. We were immediately sold on it after taking it for a test drive. It has all the bells and whistles that the other ones have for about 6k or 7k less at least. Had it for several months now and taken it on one trip and no complaints at all. Very fun to drive, very fast, and plenty of interior room. Do not go buy any midsize or crossover without going to look at the CX 9.

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  The CX-9 is a Great Ride - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By LuvmyCX9 - October 9 - 3:36 am

  Bought my CX-9 this week. Did extensive search looking at the Acura MDX, Toyota Highlander, Volvo XC90, Honda Odyssey, Honda Pilot, Toyota Sienna. Reasons I picked the CX-9: 1) Good access to third row. Second row seats can slide forward, so you can access the third row without having to move a car seat. 2) Comparable to 2008 Accura MDX in features but costs a lot less, MDX more difficult to get to the third row and dash is very cluttered with different knobs. 3) Comparable to the 2008 Highlander but a better ride. Highlander still has a trucky feel. 4) Decided against the minivans because the new cross-over SUVs offer comparable features and space, without the minivan ride.

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  Mazda cx-9 touring awd - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By Chandra - October 8 - 12:23 pm

  I have purchased this car from Maxon Mazda in NJ,and i am really happy with the car. You would never be disappointed with this vehicle. Especially with its backup- camera, and bose audio system. It is a real fun-driving machine. The only disadvantage could be with the mileage otherwise i am extremely happy with the car and its dynamics.. Bye bye Toyota and Honda.

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  Best value in a 7 seater! - 2011 Mazda CX-9
  By wartoni - October 8 - 6:23 am

  I did a HUGE amount of driving and trying of many cars (Acura MDX, Audi Q7, Merc GL450, Hyundai veracruz) and found this to me the best mix of style and value. Not wanting to drive a outwardly expensive car and still wanting sport we picked this. I love it more now than when I test drove it. Great car for a good price.

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  As fuel efficient as a dinosaur - 2009 Mazda CX-9
  By Roz - October 7 - 10:36 pm

  We are a family of five with three young children and grandparents who like to come along for the ride. We needed an SUV with a true third row, and this was the best option (the Acadia and Enclave were not being leased at the time). Although I find the interior fairly comfortable, it does not compare to the Lexus RX 350 we had before this car. Also, the fuel economy is horrible -- I average 14 MPG with combined city & highway driving. My husband has a Toyota Highlander and gets much better fuel economy. Needless to say, this will be our last CX-9.

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  Outstanding Crossover - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By Greg - October 4 - 4:20 am

  I have had my CX-9 for almost a year now and we absolutely love it! The only complaint is it could get better MPG (I am averaging about 16 mpg). I researched and test drove about every crossover out there and none felt as good to drive as the CX9. The stereo is awesome, especially the surround sound when playing a DVD. Xenon headlights are great. Anyone who has never been in this car before is surprised how nice it is and cant believe it is a Mazda. The handling and performance are second to none in the crossover segment. The transmission is silky smooth. The GPS with back up camera are great features. I would recommend this car to anyone looking for a sporty crossover.

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  Built like a tank - 2015 Mazda CX-9
  By jjwjr - September 29 - 4:25 am

  Before purchasing I tried a few other SUVs, none matched the handling characteristics of the Mazda. The vehicle feels planted on the highway during the worst weather conditions. At first the firm ride was a concern but it isnt meant to be a Town car. A firm ride is the trade off enabling the vehicle to perform more like a passenger car. No doubt youre aware of its size when behind the wheel but it drives like a smaller vehicle.

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  Crossover Best Buy - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By Dave - September 16 - 7:30 pm

  It was finally time to replace the 10 year old Pathfinder. In making our decision, the wife and I test drove the Pilot, Highlander, Veracruz and the CX-9. We were completely blown away by the the way the CX-9 handled. Believe me, you really need to test drive this vehicle to fully understand how well it drives. We went with the Grand Touring AWD model with the Bose / Moonroof and the Power Liftgate packages. We both find this vehicle very fun to drive and cannot wait to take it on our first road trip.

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  Grendel, the grey monster - 2014 Mazda CX-9
  By Keith Murphy - September 13 - 3:46 pm

  A good solid SUV that has the size engine I need for towing my boat. However, it is much bigger than my RAV4 and took some getting used to. I got a good deal from Wilson Mazda in Ventura and a payment well within my limited budget.