5 Star Reviews for Mazda CX-9

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.62/5 Average
562 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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:

Showing 211 through 220 of 562.00
  • Excellent Value in CUV Race - 2007 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    Our Stormy Blue CX-9 GT is great! Turns heads all over town. Drives well both on the road and in town. Wife LOVES the bluetooth connection capability. Bose sound system is outstanding. Back seat (third row), while not used a lot, will come in handy for hauling around 7 year olds friends. I am particularly pleased with the handling of the vehicle. Going around corners in town the CX-9 demonstrates little body lean. Stops and starts just like you would expect a sporty ride to do. Would pay $32K for this over the Lexus, Infinity or Audi/VW and not fret at all! For now, will sit back and enjoy the ride!

  • CX-9 hits the spot - 2012 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    Ive had it for 3 years......almost perfect....I wish you could get the grand touring without the 20" wheels....the ride is a little harsher, but the bigger problem is the constant TPMS light turning on every time you hit a decent bump. Just too finicky and pretty pointless given the vehicle.....I had a sport for a loaner and the 18" wheels ride much better and cant really tell with the handling

  • Very delighted owner - 2010 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    We bought this car after testing several others like the Highlander and Traverse. The former lacks cargo space behind the third row and this third row is intended for children or small adults only. The later has its seats on the second and third rows too close to the floor that it makes it uncomfortable for long trips. We cannot be more pleased with our choice, its riding and performance are awesome, feels solid and its interior and exterior satisfy our taste. Weve got so far 23 mpg, mainly on highways.

  • As fun to drive as the old one, just better - 2016 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    Our 2010 CX-9 Grand Touring was still in great shape and we have enjoyed every 60,000 miles we drove in it but wanted to get a new car with all the modern bells and whistle and upgraded safety (the recent test report of the small overlap crash test of the old CX9 were not exactly making us happy). I loved the new model since I saw the first pictures and was very intrigued about the Signature trim level and the new 2.5 turbo engine. I had the new Jaguar F-Pace (look, performance, chassis, V6 supercharged engine and handling) and the Volvo XC90 (that interior!!!!). I daily drive a fun RWD coupe with a manual gearbox during the week and I want our family car to be fun to drive as it is the only car I drive during the week-end with the family and cargo (2 young kids). Living in Colorado, we take a lot of trips in the mountains and I want a car that is fun to drive on these roads and that allow me control. The 2010 CX9 was fantastic in the fun to drive department and I did not want to replace it by anything less engaging. I was wondering how the new engine would handle and I was absolutely not disappointed, the low end torque is immediately available and the car always feels more powerful than it really is. EVERYTHING is nicer in it compared to the old model, the materials and quality is impressive for its class and price. The Jaguar is nice but you need to add a lot of extra to get it to that level ($60k), still more powerful and truly plays in the luxury segment though. Handling, brakes, transmission, technology, everything works seamlessly.

  • Completely Satisfied - 2008 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    Bought this to replace our 01 Honda CRV. Researched many third row SUVS. Came down to a Yukon or the CX9. My wife liked the CX9 because the ride was so much smoother. Couldnt agree more for once! The CX9 is a great SUV, roomy and well designed interior and sleek exterior. First time Mazda buyer and will definitely consider Mazda the next time.

  • One fine Zoom Zoom SUV - 2007 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    I bought my CX-9 recently. The price you pay for the car makes it a great value. Bose sound system is great. The car is very quiet, pickup is good on the freeway. The advanced keyless system is a must.

  • CX-9 - 2012 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    Feels like smaller sporty car. My 12 hour long, 850 mile long road trip last summer wasnt as exhausting as usual, thanks to smaller steering wheel, sporty seats and carlike handling. Steering is sporty and precise. Seats feel carlike and comfortable for a long trip.

  • Minivan for the Non Minivan Mom - 2007 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    We looked at everything in a 7 passenger configuration, at the end we where left with the CX9, Honda Oddyssey, and Audi Q7. The Mazda beats them on almost every level. If this car had captains chairs it would have no comparison, not even the Acadia/Outlook.

  • Awesome Car! - 2007 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    I traded in my 2003 Expedition and wanted something a little smaller with better handling/ride, but still needed the 3rd row seats. Looked at the Explorer, Pilot and Acadia but the CX-9 was in a different league when I test drove it. Im very impressed with the CX-9 and feel I made the right decision.

  • "good value" " atractive design" - 2008 Mazda CX-9
    By -

    Cx9 best value for the cost..very good in snow here in Colorado... very responsive handling. Driver position very comfortable. Xenon head lights useful on mountain roads at night. Third row seat and storage area a big benefit along with sun-roof and side warning system. Excellent sound system and navigation... best value for the price in this category.

Mazda CX-9 Reviews By Year:
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