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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  Wow - this is FUN - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By JerryO - February 18 - 5:36 pm

  Ive had my new CX-9 for just 2 weeks but first impression is holy cow - how did they make a big SUV feel so much like my BMW 330 convertible?? Incredible, truly a drivers car. The ride is quiet, taut and responsive but I would not characterize it as harsh, as some others have felt. Just really sporty. Goes where you point it with almost no body roll or lean. I bought this to replace my excellent 04 Sienna XLE Ltd AWD, which was perfect for my radio control airplane hobby, requiring as it does, at least 9 of room for one of my big planes. The CX-9 easily handles this with the seats in the right configuration but drives and looks a million times better.

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  CX-9 AWD rocks the rockies - 2012 Mazda CX-9
  By hoodoo - February 13 - 5:06 am

  Been driving this car for 2 months now. Has done many things well; like carry 6 adults, grocery shopping, drive on snow/ice, skiing, highway, city, big mountains. First Mazda we have owned and it is so nice to drive and handles well in the mtns, where we live. Great as family wagon AWD, commuter, weekender, SUV replacement, power driver seat, steering wheel adjustments, good view out the windows, big outside mirrors (heated as well), power outlets, storage in far rear compartment, kids really like the car overall, build quality seems very solid.

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  Amazing vehicle! - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By drblptq - February 11 - 8:14 pm

  I owned this incredible suv for almost two and a half years of trouble free driving, and would highly recommend it to anyone needing space for 7, ample cargo capacity, and fairly reasonable mileage. This is easily one of the best handling suvs I have ever owned. 60,000 miles and not one single issue, how many people can say that about a vehicle. I traded it for a 2011 Hyundai Elantra as I drive 25,000 plus miles per year, and 35 mpg combined is so nice. The Elantra actually has more front seat legroom that the much larger CX-9! What more could a family of four or five ask for, looks, performance, stability, handling, all in a durable and trouble free package.

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  Nice CX-9 - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By Jim - January 31 - 4:10 am

  Just bought the white CX-9 sport fwd and drove to Florida and back to Ohio with two adults, two 16 yoa and a 17 yoa. Vehicle ran great and surpassing the speed limit was no chore. Ride is so nice you dont realize how fast you are traveling. We sold our Tahoe and traded in our 2006 mazda6 for the CX-9.

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  A vehicle you will not regret buying - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By jenon - January 17 - 6:46 pm

  This is an awesome vehicle traded in my ML320 for it and never regretted. Best of all it uses regular gasoline. The handling is top notch. Test drove Acura MDX before I decided to buy the CX-9. The CX-9 handles just as well and costs way less loaded.

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  Mazda CX-9 - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By Faye Whiddon - January 10 - 2:36 pm

  I drove 11 competitors. I went back for a second and third trial drive to make sure I was not just dazzled by the nifty style and, for sure, the performance was top notch. I purchased the Touring version. Safety features were a factor. I consider the blue tooth a safety as well as a convenience factor. The third row seating is the most comfortable of all i tested. Grandchildren love the DVD and Bose system. Best auto purchase I ever made.

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  zoon zoom smart - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By momoffive1 - January 8 - 5:12 am

  Just drove home in my new (to me) CX-9. Got an amazing deal from a craigslist ad. Unbelievable car! Not sure I have ever been in such a luxurious vehicle! My whole family fits, all 7 of us, including 3 carseats. I was a little surprised by the small cargo area, I think my husbands Corolla has more room, but you know what? I really dont care! I was going to have to get a roof box for trips, anyway. I cant believe this is a base model! Smooth drive, quiet, roomy 3rd row, nice storage compartments, and my mp3 player plugs right in...great Bose sound! I spent 18K and drove home feeling like a millionaire. You have to see it and drive it to believe it! Happy Mommy!!

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  One of the Best Vehicles Ive Owned! - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By G Deleon - December 27 - 7:36 pm

  We leased one in 2008 and liked it so much we bought the new 2010 model. It looks great and it drives great. It has every advantage of a Mini-van combined with the feel and drive of a sports car wrapped up in a beautiful SUV body. And the best part is that you don’t have to sell a kidney to get one. Every comparable SUV is at least $10K more.

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  New Car Performs - 2017 Mazda CX-9
  By K M Rich - December 23 - 1:12 pm

  I used to have a Volvo XC90 (for 10 years) but when it came time to replace, I needed to expand my horizons due to cost. A friend owns and loves the Mazda CX-9, so I took a test drive. My SO fell in love immediately. It took a little longer for me to come around, but for a turbo engine the car really moves. It has great styling (everyone around my office has complimented me) and the interior is beautifully crafted. The drivers seat is a little smaller than my previous SUV, and the actual cargo room is practically nil (without folding down the third row) but I love that the second row reclines and shifts in 2 pieces, making it very adaptable for my family. Gas mileage to date appears to be in range, although lower than I originally projected/anticipated. Overall Im pleased with my purchase.

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  Brand New Off the Truck - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By Al - October 12 - 2:53 am

  Bought the vehicle a week ago. Only a couple of minor issues. The wireless headphones are a little flimsy. I have to get one replaced. People will occasionally hit their head when getting into the front seat. Went from a 2002 Ford Explorer to a 2007 Mazda CX9 w/ tow and entertainment package. Ran just a little over $35,000 for it. Kids love the DVD player and us parents do too. All I here now is laughter out of the back seat. Lots of great comments about the car.