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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  Retired Auto Engineers Review - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By Lateralg - September 21 - 10:56 am

  I picked up my CX-9 GT Tuesday, 2/14/07. Some observations: * I drive with my left thumb & forefinger at 7:00 oclock on the wheel. I feel no significant torque steer during WOT start. * Door-closing sound of all doors is that of a mega-buck limo. * Brake "Pinch-out" control, something I dont remember reading in a review was way above average. Pinchout control is the ability to control deceleration during the last revolution of the wheel prior to stop. As a driver, were rarely aware of it, but if we look at our passengers head as we come to a complete stop, we see it. * SST is OK ... much better than PRNDL, but I dont like it as much as the Lincoln LS version.

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  Impressive! - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By Doug - September 12 - 7:23 pm

  After three months researching, the CX9 came out on top for comfort, zoom, distinct styling, and of course a non-boring ride. Looked at Lexus, Nissan, GMC, even Volkswagen. Nothing compares, it looks great, gets attention, lots of room, feels much smaller yet solid road feel. Suspension does a great job feeling like it wants to be driven. After two weeks, other cars had some pluses, but the overall package has to work together. Congrats to Mazda for raising an eyebrow of all other manufacturers! They wish they had the chemistry the CX9 has.

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  Pretty good crossover - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By butter44 - September 6 - 6:10 am

  I like it. The manual says to use super unleaded so that is what I do. Gets about 17 - 19 mpg. Seems fine to me. Better than my truck that gets 10.

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  Great Suv! - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By sysop - September 5 - 5:30 pm

  I picked up a new top of the line 2008 Mazda CX9 Grand Touring for my wife in January of 2009.This car is amazing comparing to other SUV’s like the Ford Edge, Nissan Murano and the Lincoln MKX the CX-9 was the best choice for the money.The CX-9 is Sporty, stylish and roomy loads of cargo space, easy access to spacious third row, even for an average-sized adult, The two- passenger third-row seat is one of the roomiest youll find. And the second row seats are very comfortable for adults. The CX-9 an attractive dash design and an adequate number of technoland an adequate number of technology and entertainment features too many to mentioned. got an excellent deal! Couldnt be happier

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  SAFETY SECOND TO NONE - 2009 Mazda CX-9
  By Larry - September 1 - 9:56 am

  I was hit broadside (T-boned) on the passenger side at an intersection. Lady ran a red light and hit me. I must say I am thankful I bought the CX- 9. The side curtain airbag deployed instantly (no white powder, clean) the doors and structure took the impact and protected me, I was completely unhurt. While both front and rear doors were completely crushed the doors did not bend into the inside, the side windows did not break. As a matter of fact the doors STILL opened and closed. Mazda has built an extremely safe and exceptional vehicle. The CX-9 was repaired (two new doors)and is back on the road as good as new. Feel free to read my previous review dated 1/13/09. Thanks Mazda, life saver!

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  Great vehicle, skip the Nav - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By Mazda driver - August 30 - 7:26 pm

  Purchased top of the line with all features, Side view warning system terrific, back-up camera excellent, sat radio great, ride tight, excellent, pick up so so, space terrific. Nav is terrible. Enter "Walmart" and it sends you to a walmart in different state! Interface is horrible. Buy a Garmin instead.

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  "Love my CX-9"!!! - 2009 Mazda CX-9
  By catscanman - August 30 - 9:36 am

  I got a great deal on fully loaded GT. Was looking to buy a Toyota Highlander being Im already a Toyota customer but then I drove the CX-9 "AND WOW"! it is much better and offers a lot more bang for the buck.

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  TOTALLY AWESOME SUV - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By CX-MAN - August 28 - 2:13 am

  Traded in a minivan last Halloween,and i really made the right decision. I own a CR-V and a Toyota and i can really tell the difference in driving,comfort and the responsiveness of the vehicle. I got the BOSE-Moonroof Pack and the sound is amazing. Drivers cockpit is classy. Transmission is smooth,manumatic shift is a plus. Bluetooth and voice command recognition is nice and standard. The interior fit and finish is at its finest,such a handsome look outside but still looks good even when carrying the whole family. This is trully a ZOOM-ZOOM vehicle from Mazda,so fun to drive. Cant wait to drive to Florida w/ the family on Thanksgiving!

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  Best Kept Secret - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By NV - August 26 - 10:00 pm

  Love the car, it rides great the pick up is impressive. Grand Touring comes with 20s HID Headlights, Bose sound system, backup camera, bindspot indicator. Cargo space is roomy with the 3rd row down more room that an Acura MDX, ML 350 or BMW X5. The 20s wheels makes the ride a little bumpy the 18s ride smoother.

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  A big wagon (and thats a good thing) - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By nastacio - August 21 - 1:50 am

  This is a replacement to a totaled Toyota Sienna. *For the segment*, it is probably the best interior space for the exterior dimensions. We looked at a Saturn Outlook, Honda Pilot and Buick Enclave, but the GMs few extra inches in all dimensions made them a chore in parking lots. The Honda sacrificed too much in 3 row. The Mazda was just right. The lack of interior storage is frustrating, with all the room in the center stack wasted under a compartment that barely fits a couple of wallets. A Mazda5 has more interior storage than the CX-9. The handling is excellent, the driver seats far from the front axle and somehow it feels like a substantial sedan on the road.