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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  Mazda CX-9 is smooooooth - 2009 Mazda CX-9
  By Maria - April 21 - 9:00 pm

  I compared the CX-9 to the Murano, Venza, CRX, and Edge. CX-9 was the smoothest, quietest ride. Great handling, and lots of storage. Third row seating in a pinch, which none of the others had.

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  Love this CX-9 - 2011 Mazda CX-9
  By georgebake - April 20 - 12:11 pm

  I have had my CX9 for 15 months with no problems. Love the confort, handling, small turning radius, easy acess third row seating, blue tooth radio and even the GPS now that I am used to it. I will buy another CX9 next year. My wife love is and I cant believe how much I use the car for moving stuff and lots of people.

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  like my CX-9 - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By bucksull - April 5 - 12:46 am

  Handles great ....firm and sure..... Yet not overly stiff. I think Mazda got it right with the CX-9 performance. Test drive of the CX-9 is a must when investigating your options. This is exactly what I was looking for, an AWD crossover that drives well. Took it to the mountains on ski trip …. Handles the snow very well including some side roads that were pretty steep. The 3rd row seat comes in handy and has decent amount of room. I am happy with this purchase.

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  Best choice of 3-row CUV in the market - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By ceric - April 3 - 4:40 pm

  Cons: so-so fuel economy (16-17 mixed driving with AWD), few customizing accessories Pros: everything else

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  Love It - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By ZoomZoom - March 20 - 1:16 am

  I have had my Mazda CX-9 for a year now. My husband and I both love this car. I have owned many cars and this 1 is the best by far. We have 5 teenagers at home and have taken them on road-trips in this car. The interior room is fantastic. After years of mini-vans, I am thrilled to have a sporty car that is fun to drive. I have had no problems with this car at all.

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  A Great Vehicle, Except for the Mileage - 2014 Mazda CX-9
  By Larry Peplin - March 10 - 5:31 am

  Im in the final couple of months of my 39 month lease. My CX-9 has been absolutely flawless in comfort, interior cargo space, handling and mechanicals. The only thing I cant live with anymore is the mileage. My average has never risen above 18.3 MPG in three years, at least according to the dash readout. I had expected better, but that is my only disappointment.

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  Zoom Zoom into luxury - 2016 Mazda CX-9
  By Jason - February 24 - 12:26 am

  luxury,luxury,luxury super quiet cabin amazing technology great performance and mpg love this suv ...

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  great drive and ride, but cheap interior - 2009 Mazda CX-9
  By Marriedwithkids - February 20 - 1:46 pm

  We traded a xc90 awd as we needed more room in the back seats. Would have never thought about the Mazda cx9 beyond reading the reviews. Once my wife and I drove it we loved it. Cool looking mommy wagon without the geekness of a minivan or suv. Very fast, handles well and looks way cool.

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  Phenomenal Vehicle - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By DD_Plays_Softball - February 15 - 5:20 pm

  Wow, I am so happy with this vehicle. The bluetooth is awesome, and it was standard! I would have had to get the $40K Pilot to get it with a Honda, and it is not even available on the SE version of the Highlander. My last car was a CTS and this handles better around turns (less body roll, really). Better rollover numbers than ANY crossover even better than the low riding Flex - check out the stats yourself at the government website safercar.gov. The space behind the second row is enormous, again much longer than the Pilot. The interior is really nice at night with window switches light up with LEDs - a really nice touch (great job Mazda). My first Mazda but I am very impressed.

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  Great family car with sporty flair and sexy look! - 2016 Mazda CX-9
  By Nancy Sayles - January 30 - 6:30 pm

  We just traded in our 2007 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring for this new master piece! The wait was absolutely worth it! If you are not sure - test drive the car... We never had any problems with our 2007 and expect nothing less from the new one! The 2016 CX9 Grand Touring comes with all the bells and wistles you need...