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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Sporty Performance in a Roomy Package - 2008 Mazda CX-9
By KBW - October 26 - 8:40 amIf your tired of the minivan life but cant figure out how to get that sporty ride youve been longing for without giving up the room of your van then take a look at the CX-9. For sure it compromises in some aspects like overall storage but much less than most in this category. Compared to my wifes previous Grand Voyager the level of comfort, styling and performance of the CX-9 more than make up for this. The ride is sure footed meaning its not going to float down the road but its not so tight as to be uncomfortable. Gas mileage seems to live up to what Mazda reports. My wife has averaged 19 mpg with mostly in town driving. Overall, its a great sporty value for the buck.
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Fun to drive - 2008 Mazda CX-9
By JonD - October 14 - 1:33 amHave owned our CX-9 for 4 months. Previously had a Honda Pilot which we liked. The CX-9 is just fun to drive. Great handling. Lots of room, great features. First Mazda we have owned and we really like it.
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My favorite car so far - 2009 Mazda CX-9
By Mr T - September 27 - 3:33 pmWe are expecting our second child and our Mazda tribute is now too small when carrying people around (we had to drive two cars). So we started looking for a 7 passenger vehicle, the choices were between the Pilot, Highlander, Traverse and the CX-9. The Pilot and the Traverse had finishing touches that seemed cheap, the Highlander exterior design seems as it did not know if it wanted to be a truck or a car so it chose something in between. At the end we got the CX-9 because we qualified for the 0% APR and no money down. Hey why pay cash when the bank is giving you money for free! So far no buying remorse.
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I love this car - 2007 Mazda CX-9
By StevePetro - September 5 - 2:16 pmI just picked up a CX-9 GT AWD with navi and the power rear gate. I love this car. Coming from a minivan to this there is only one concern. Take some caution with the rear door. Kids who are used to sliding van doors like to swing open the large and wide back doors. If you have kids put on the child safety locks and open the doors for them. Other then that I love this car!!
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Exceeded my expectations - 2010 Mazda CX-9
By geojp - August 28 - 11:13 amThe cx-9 is very comfortable to drive. Love the seating position & visibility of the road. Lots of leg room (front & rear). Interior is very well thought out and organized. Exterior very appealing especially rear end. Car stickered at 39,200. Got it for 36,600 (including $500 Mazda loyalty cash)with 1.9% financing for 5 years.
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Best In Its Class - 2008 Mazda CX-9
By shawn08 - August 21 - 3:50 amJust purchased the Mazda Cx9 Touring in September. I have about a 1000 miles on the truck. I enjoy driving this truck, its way better on gas than the LR3 I had. The interior of the vehicle is well designed. I did not get the Grand Touring since cars with nav these days go for less when its time to trade in or sell. Got the entertainment center with the upgraded Bose stereo its amazing! Not sure what everyone is talking about but my car has a trip odometer maybe they dont know how to find it. Before I made this purchase I test drove quite a bit of trucks before making my decision. I am glad I went with the CX9.
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Just love it! - 2010 Mazda CX-9
By CX9ZoomZoom - August 8 - 2:00 amMost reviews have captured what I have to say. It such a pleasure to drive! Really sporty for such a big vehicle. I just love this car. Mileage could be better but it is not too terrible compared to others in this class. Quality of construction of certain interior components could be slightly better (compared to luxury vehicles). Overall, I love this car.
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Very Nice Vehicle - 2011 Mazda CX-9
By grf1 - August 5 - 2:15 pmIve had my 2011 CX-9 for about a month, have taken two long road trips in it, and use it to commute in Atlanta traffic about 40 miles round trip. I traded in my 2001 Toyota Highlander for the Mazda, and so far, Im very happy with the CX-9. The driving experience is great for this size vehicle. The third-row seating is very accessible, and is roomy enough for my 9-year old (my 15 year-old complains its too tight, but then again, he complains about everything!). I am disappointed in the gas mileage, even when travelling on the interstate at reasonable speeds. I suppose that is the price one pays for this kind of performance. I really like the Bose sound system.
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Technology incompetent - 2014 Mazda CX-9
By bb_gun - August 3 - 5:10 amThe SUV is very comfortable, quiet, stylish and spacious. Its fun to ride even on long trips. Love the look & feel. CONS: Fuel economy - it doesnt give the listed fuel economy; couple of mpg less. Bluetooth - if I had my phone on before starting the SUV, it will transfer the phone call, but will cut in & out. USB/iPAD - always starts in the first song - doesnt go back to the song that you were listening to before. Hate the GPS.
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LOVE the CX9 - 2010 Mazda CX-9
By georgebake - August 1 - 9:43 amWe have 2500 miles on the car and love its comfort, ride, looks, abundant features, room and quality. Looked at them all - Honda, Toyota, Nissan, Handai and Kia. This beats them all hands down.
