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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  Worried - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By Stacy - October 9 - 2:23 am

  I love my CX-9, which is why I am so disappointed in its reliability. I dont know what is going on, but my CX-9 has 4,000 miles and it is in the shop for the second time. The first time the transmission went completely out and had to be replaced with 350 miles. It is now in the shop again for a leak in the transfer casing. I am concerned about keeping it (a bought it because I need a reliable car for my commute to college) but I really love my CX-9.

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  Zoom all the way - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By leadfoot - October 5 - 4:33 am

  Ive had my 2010 Grand Touring CX-9 since Dec 2009. This vehicle is definitely fun and comfortable. I live in the country and take the back roads at more than optimum speeds and the vehicle handles great. Ive owned a Subaru with AWD and that was a bit better on the handling. Drive 110 miles each day and my back loves the comfortable seats. Ive used the heated seats with no problems but Ill refrain until they are fixed. Few economy is great. I get 21.9. Not bad for cruising down the road.

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  Solid build quality & fun to drive. - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By M. A. - September 25 - 10:53 am

  I drove different makes of SUVs for the past 10 years and this vehicle is the best of all. Fit and finish is perfect. Seats are comfortable and roomy, interior materials are plush and instrumentations are well placed. Second row seat tracks are covered in order not to get anything pinched in there... hint, hint!! The transmission shifts smoothly and flawlessly. Acceleration is enhanced by the AWD without feeling grippy. The engine is quite and has plenty of power. The exterior looks sharp. Last but not least, the Bose system rocks!!

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  Loving my new 2010 CX-9 GT! - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By FormerH3Owner - September 24 - 10:00 am

  I just picked up my Crystal White Pearl Mica GT last night. I LOVE this vehicle! My last two rides were H3s, which cost the same if not more then this beauty. I now realize how much I overpaid for my H3s after seeing all you get for your money with Mazda! I cant think of anything else I would want in a vehicle. It gets great gas mileage for the size (avg. 20 mixed), seats 7 when needed, the exterior and interior remind me of a Lexus, love the 20 inch wheels, rides like it is on glass - and all for way under $40k!

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  So far so good - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By Satisfied - September 24 - 2:36 am

  Have had it almost 2 weeks and its been fun to drive. We are getting a lot of looks as this Crossover is not often seen. (Youd think that with the Motor Trend SUV of the Year Award that more people would buy this vehicle!) We had a Toyota Sienna and this rides & handles very similar. We have not noticed any "engine noise". We were shopping for a Highlander but totally fell in love with the CX-9... a lot roomier and much better style!

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  Drive it Forever - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By quantify - September 12 - 12:00 pm

  We bought the car used in 2010 with 30k miles from a dealer. We now have 124k on the car, and its still my wifes primary vehicle. Looks great and totally reliable. Other than tires and brakes, the only things weve replaced are a couple of control arms and a tie rod end. I wish it got slightly better gas mileage (21 highway), but thats about it.

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  Awesome car! - 2009 Mazda CX-9
  By nk - August 31 - 5:01 pm

  Awesome car!

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  CX9 Australian Review - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By David Hill - August 12 - 1:50 am

  Ive had my CX9 now for 2 years and have done 60,000 Km (35,000 miles). I understand they are only released in North America and Australia (RH drive). 3.7 L V6 is great, the leather interior is well finished, goes hard but drinks fuel just as hard. Gas in Australia is $1.35 per litre, which means a tank is over $80 and I get about 450 km per tank. A few minor problems, drive shaft replaced the first week, factory fault with a bad highway shudder, always repaired fast without fuss. I do a lot of Brisbane inner city parks and I can nail the big bastard into most car spaces. Id buy another, I love it, we call it "Mazilla" as it is Japanese and large.

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  Great car!! - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By Michael - August 10 - 12:30 am

  Very nice car in all aspects with the exception of gas mileage! Still though if you need the third seat this is the cream of the class!

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  Loving my CX-9 - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By Kathy - July 22 - 11:20 pm

  We looked at every 7 seater available, and decided on the CX-9. It was a great choice. It drives like a car but has the capacity for 7. Compared to all the others you couldnt beat the price. Ive had numerous comments on it in the 3 weeks Ive owned it. I expect to see a lot more out on the road soon.