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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  Best value SUV - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By homer78749 - July 26 - 10:30 pm

  I went into the process with about six SUVs in mind (Q7, X5, Highlander, Enclave, FX35, and the CX-9). I was pretty smitten with the Q7. But Mazda makes it pretty tough because they are just such an exceptional value. I liked the Q7 better, but not $25K better. I test drove the X5 twice. I know its heresy, but I think the CX-9 is a better vehicle. I liked all of the cars I drove pretty well, but Mazda gives you a luxury SUV, top of the line model, outstanding performance and reliability at a great price point. Styling is a personal thing, but behind the Q7 I thought it was the best looking of the bunch.

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  Great, Fun, Zoom-Zoom - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By leftcoastfunk - July 26 - 6:30 pm

  The zoom-zoom really comes out in this beast. Coming from a Mazdaspeed 3, I had very low expectations from this monster, but the performance and handling are WAY better than any SUV Ive ever driven or ridden in. Gas mileage is about what can be expected and is actually quite good if you tone it down (only 1 zoom instead of zoom- zoom) and head down the freeway. Fuel tank is a good size for decent miles on the trip meter. Interior finish is super nice with all the amenities. Exterior look is cool, but doesnt stand out-which is probably good. People complain about the ride quality with the 20" wheels but really the suspension is more sport-tuned and the ride really isnt bad.

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  Love this car - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By Go Revs! - July 25 - 6:00 am

  Edmunds review is spot-on. I bought the GT AWD with Assistance Package (nav+), the rear entertainment system, and towing package. Interior storage up front and cup holders are a little lacking, the rear doors open wide (pro/con), and the wheels communicate a lot of road imperfections. That said, I love my cx-9. Fun to drive; interior feels very upscale; looks great inside and out. From the outside, youd never guess the interior space -- seats slide and layout is great. It is huge inside, other than height (though there is plenty of headroom). Got the towing package to use a cargo carrier for keeping trash barrels outside on trips to the dump (this vehicle replaces my pickup).

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  WOW, ALL THIS FOR 36K?? - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By CX9 Lover - June 18 - 9:00 am

  Have had almost every SUV made in the last 30 years, and I can say without question, that this is the best value for the buck of any that I have owned.. Came from a H3 Hummer, which cost me almost 45k, to this, which is a fully loaded GTAWD for 36k; BLOWS AWAY the competition, and, even though I didnt need a 7 passenger SUV, the cost vs. value for this guy was impossible to resist...Compared to a Pilot, Santa Fe, Ford Edge, and a few others, there is NO COMPARISON! Just flat out fun to drive, and solid and stable as any car or SUV I have ever owned..and , even my wife LOVES it, and she hates most SUVs...

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  New CX9 - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By Keith - June 14 - 4:53 pm

  Purchased new CX9 AWD GT a couple weeks ago. Replaced 2002 Chevy TrailBlazer that was wrecked and totaled. Looked at Toyota Venza & Highlander, Honda Pilot, Acura MDX and Chevy Traverse. In comparing features, style, size, towing, performance and price, the CX9 was an easy choice. 0% for 60 mo. was the deal clincher. Leaps and bounds ahead of the TB. Wife drives it regularly and loves it - very important. Only disappointment is mileage, but expected this based on research done. Have owned Ford, Chrysler, Dodge, Chevy, Toyota and Honda as daily drivers - so far very happy with the Mazda - hope it stays that way.

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  Best Minivan Ever - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By sranger - June 2 - 4:16 am

  I got the AWD Grand Touring model and love the way it rides, drives and stops. I must have driven every other SUV/CUV on the market and this was my winner hands down. The Lincoln MKX was my second pick, but too expensive and it had poor braking ability. The interior is nicer than most 50K+ vehicles. The Bose sound system is excellent. Heating/cooling works great. Love the sun roof. Towing package seems to work well.

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  How do they do it? - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By SLIVer93 - May 10 - 4:06 am

  After driving 9 other 7 passenger SUV/CUVs to replace our jeep after the birth of our twins, the CX9 easily came out on top. It is remarkable how they make a vehicle of this size drive as small as it does. Mazda really thought this one through before putting it out there, unlike most others that put the third row in as an after-thought.

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  Luxury with an economy price - 2016 Mazda CX-9
  By Michael - May 7 - 7:43 pm

  Just bought the Grand Touring edition. The styling is fantastic. But the true wow factor is the interior. The designers did a wonderful job designing an interior that is just as beautiful and well appointed as a German car. Pair the "hopeful" reliability of a Japanese car with the build quality of a German car and Im in love. Kind of looks like a Range Rover Evoque with an Aston Martin open face grill. Sweet. Ive read the other reviews which were quite technical. If youre a driver and appreciate an SUV that not only looks good but drives like a car "all wheel drive Grand Touring" this is the ride for you. The red one is ugly. White or black. Come on....,

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  Great car for the money - 2012 Mazda CX-9
  By cbwb - April 28 - 10:36 pm

  Weve owned this car for 13 months and have put 30,000 miles on it with no mechanical problems or breakdowns. We bought this car because it was larger, better equipped, and lower in price than a Ford Edge. Great performance, comfortable, decent MPG. The only annoying thing is the keyless entry/ignition system. The remotes occasionally will not work. The local dealer replaced the remote batteries one time, but says there is no problem. Still have the problem every couple weeks. Love the car, but the dealer service department is condescending and blows off any mentions of a problem. Dont know if that is a Mazda thing or just this dealer.

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  2008 Mazda CX9 GT AWD - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By Damian - April 22 - 1:33 am

  I chose this vehicle over the MDX, Q7, Acadia, Enclave, and Highlander. This is my first SUV/CUV. I love it. Excellent vehicle but there is always room for improvement. The suggested improvements below would put it way above its competitors