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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  CX-9 Sport Model - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By galo - December 21 - 10:16 am

  After driving it for only 1 week, my wife absolutely loves it. It is stylish and elegant, very quiet ride and comfortable. The 3rd seat is what sold me, plenty of leg room for an adult, same as the 2nd row. Although I think Mazda could have dressed up the interior with more chrome pieces, I still like the way it looks, I feel that the CX-9 is more ergonomic than other crossovers. We looked at GMC Acadia, Chevy Traverse, Honda Crosstour, Hyundai SantaFe and Toyota Venza and none appealed to us as much as the CX-9. I definatelly recommend it.

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  Great SUV - 2016 Mazda CX-9
  By Brian - December 14 - 12:11 am

  We compared this vehicle to the Honda Pilot and the Toyota Highlander. We eliminated the Highlander after one test drive, and then test drove the Pilot and CX-9. We ended up buying the Mazda, however there were a couple of things that we liked about the Pilot - the inside storage compartments are way bigger (there is a place between the driver and front passenger seat that is huge and can store almost anything) than on the Mazda, and the right side blind-spot monitoring was pretty cool. However, the inside materials of the Pilot seemed cheap, and the drive was not as smooth. So we ended up buying the Mazda, and overall we are happy, though we do wish the interior storage was bigger.

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  A overall great suv. - 2014 Mazda CX-9
  By sportsphil - December 1 - 1:57 am

  Well lets start with the fact that i went from a 2006 BMW x5 to my 2014 cx9. The X5 was great for what it was. The CX9 is better for what i wanted. The CX9 is much comfier. It is adequately fast and adequately nimble. The X5 was way faster, more nimble and could break alot better. But its ride was extremely uncomfortable owing to all the sportiness of the vehicle. I enjoy the cheaper gas and the better mileage in the cx9. I enjoy the quiet comfy ride that is light years beyond my x5. The navigation in the CX9 does realtime traffic (with no subscription)... which i didnt expect or maybe that was something the dealer got for me since i got it as an add on. 4000 miles, so far so good

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  great car - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By fred - November 12 - 6:16 am

  I traded my Mercedes R350 on a new Mazda CX9 Sport; what a value! Even the base level is well optioned, including heated seats. I added leather as a dealer installed option which was well worth it because the quality is much higher than the factory hides and it is less expensive that upgrading to the Touring model. My Mazda rides and drives like a dream and the styling is awesome. The cargo room with the seats folded down is enough for furniture and unlike my Mercedes you dont have to remove the headrests to put the seats down. If you are in the market for a 7 passenger, AWD vehicle, this is the one!

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  The best - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By ZOOMX2GUY - November 8 - 4:50 am

  I thought I will never have the same driving experience I had when I bought my first BMW 5 series and then I got a CX9 this month and WOW is all I can say! Its like Im so excited driving it that I dont care where to go or how far the destination is because this vehicle is so much fun to drive. Im not sure why other reviewers will comment on the MPG on this one but all I can say is that DO YOUR RESEARCH before buying a car.

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  Words best SUV - 2018 Mazda CX-9
  By Mazda Guy - October 29 - 5:03 am

  Just last week, we picked the Soul Crystal Red CX9 GT with black interior. I didnt have guts to go with a red. I have to thank my wife, as she persuaded me to go with the red. Now, I realize it is a gorgeous color and gives a great modern look. It emits different shades of red, depending upon the lighting condition. The chrome piece in the front and the one in the back are a masterpiece. There are chrome accents in the sides and this is one of the best looking vehicles on the road. Even the closing of the door gives a premium feeling. The black interior is phenomenal. No plastic, plush interior with piano black and aluminum like materials in the console. Another suv, that I test drove had hard plastics all around. Then you start the car and amazed by the driver-centric features like the heads-up display, control knob, radar cruise control, etc. Heads-up display alone is enough to justify a CX 9 over other mainstream three row suvs. Speed, blind sport monitoring info, speed limits, lane info, navigation info all come in the heads up display. Naturally I only drive looking at the HUD and my neck doesnt hurt, as I dont have to look down or to the sides that often. The Bose center-point surround system is good. I only stream from my phone. It sounds great with a good base. Tried aha radio and the quality is good too. Navigation system is OK but not that user friendly. Hope Mazda will bring android auto soon, so that I can just use the google maps instead. And now the driving. It accelerates very fast from traffic lights. Usually the car in the next lane will far behind, when you have reached the posted speed. Funtastic. If you are thinking of buying a 3 row, do not wait. Just go and buy one. Bet, you will be delighted like me.

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  Worth the Wait - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By Happy Mom - October 22 - 12:26 am

  I purchased my CX-9 in April after a ton of research and numerous test drives of similar vehicles. Nothing compares for the money. Very happy with the smooth ride, look of the car, handling and comfort. All of the kids and their friends can easily fit into this car. Easy access to third row and plenty of trunk space even when 3rd row is occupied. Much more than my Mountaineer! Love, love, love the bluetooth feature! Bose stereo rocks as well. Most of all, love the cool look of the car. Nothing else like it and people notice it all of the time!

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  Top Notch Choice - 2012 Mazda CX-9
  By sawyer98 - October 21 - 4:56 pm

  Purchased a 2012 CX-9 GT. Im fussy about build quality. I didnt find a single quality issue with my car. Every seam, all the paint, every fit was perfect, inside and out. An excellent value and definite upgrade from others in its class...and I checked them all. The 20" tires are "firm", but I expected that. Mileage combined has been about 23.5. Also what I expected. I leave the 3rd row folded down to increase capacity. No problem. My local dealer provided the best buying experience Ive ever had. Service dept is excellent and every employee has been friendly and helpful. Maybe Im just lucky?

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  What to expect with buying/owning theCX9 - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By Steve - September 28 - 9:56 pm

  Well this is my first SUV. I have driven full sized Tahos and what nots and they are comfortable but the gas mileage always kept me away. This CX9 is very snazzy. It feels fancier than you would expect. There is lots of room and it is comfortable. Plenty of power and a lot of cool gadgets. Im very pleased with it. Its fun to drive and you dont see many on the road. The bad things include: Of course the gas mileage we average 17.5 but have gotten as low as 15.5 which doesnt sound that bad till you need to fill up again after 300mi. The nav is beautiful but kinda stinks. You cant make adjustments on the fly we usually just use the iphone. The heated seats you can barely feel but we still love it

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  The Best Choice - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By New Mazda Owner - September 23 - 6:56 pm

  My wife and myself have test drove every sub $35,000 SUV/ Crossover, and Van on the market for the last 6 months. I must confess the CX-9 was the best riding, best fit and finish I found for the money.