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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  almost a great ride - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By D - December 13 - 7:53 am

  Excellent drivetrain, fun in the snow (with winter tires), fun on pavement. This car does have Zoom Zoom, especially for a 4500 pound wagon. Everything about the car is good, except for the coolant leak that has presented odor in the car (while in traffic especially) with no visible signs elsewhere. The regional service mgr. refuses to step up and acknowledge / fix the car, with empty statements of protocol, Mazda almost has a winner with its flagship automobile. I really like driving the car, just the annoyance is enough to steer towards another make next time.

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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!

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  Zoom-Zoom! - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By rugmaven - December 7 - 8:00 am

  My CX-9 is certainly a solid, smooth driving vehicle. Ive had it since April 07 and have discovered what an excellent vehicle I purchased. It handles on par with much sportier cars, has good power; pickup and corners unlike my expectations for a rather large, over 5,000 pound vehicle. The interior is understated, yet sleek and quietly upscale. The front seats do a fine job of keeping your backside centered even during hard cornering. The engine is powerful and smooth; mated to the six speed transmission, driving around town or on the highways is very pleasant.

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  Outstanding Value and Ride - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By Aberdeengolfer - November 13 - 11:40 pm

  Have over 1000 miles. Spent 9 months researching. Am 61" and plenty of room. Can get 5 golfers and bags easily vehicle. Got WeatherTech front liners and hope they make a rear cargo liner over third row.

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  Mazda need improve quality. - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By Gallego - November 6 - 10:43 pm

  After 2 years and 47K miles it is good SUV for family of 4. Hard to use the rear seats if you use car seats on both sides.

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  Great Car so far - 2013 Mazda CX-9
  By grassshearking - October 19 - 11:03 pm

  I have about 500 miles on my 2013 CX9 AWD Grand Touring SUV. I wanted reliability, a good array of technical options, comfort, quite ride and seven seats. I looked over a variety of options - the GM suite of products (Enclave, Acadia, Traverse), Toyota Highlander, BMW X5 and Acura MDX. I added the CX9 to the list after seeing its consumer rated reliability index was a 92, higher than the Highlander. My decision came down to the Highlander and CX9. Did not trust the GM products, Acura MDX is too expensive, same with the X5. Compared to the Highlander Ltd, the CX9 GT has a better middle seat, better technical options, a better ride, and is a much better value. Paid $37k out the door for min

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  Just got a Copper Red CX-9 Grand Touring - 2011 Mazda CX-9
  By zoomzoomboy - October 18 - 9:40 pm

  Love this car for the value and ride. We stole this car for $100 above invoice armed with the Edmunds data. Bring it with you!! It really helps. We went to the dealer in Stamford and they treated us well. They were very friendly and we negotiated easily to get a great deal. I spoke with a John (?) who gave us a great test drive and wound up getting the car we wanted (copper red) in 2 days. We love the car and it has great room and safety features (we have four kids) so we are really happy and would buy a Mazda again no problem.

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  2008 CX-9 GT AWD ++++ - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By armann - October 18 - 4:03 pm

  The vehicles design is superb. The drivers seat is the best, you have all the buttons strategically located. Great bang for your bucks.

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  Class Act - CX-9 Base Model w/AWD - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By SammyHagar - October 16 - 6:03 pm

  Shopped and shopped - viewed and drove them all in the CX-9 class, the Mazda CX-9 was the winner hands down. White is the new Black when choosing color - The Mazda white is awesome when viewed on a sunny day. 60 months 0%, Owner Loyalty Rebate $500, $100 under invoice - pretty good deal - $3000 - under MSRP