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 - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By Dalpaa - July 10 - 6:13 am

  I was a fan from the moment I got in and stepped on the gas! Very well done for the price.

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  What a Surprise - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By Bryan O - July 3 - 2:00 am

  We had been looking, since July 2010 and covered everything but a Kia. We drove the Porsche, MB ML-350 you name it and we drove them all. I can say this was the winner by a long shot. Coming from a Porsche guy, I am glad we saw and drove this wonderful vehicle last.

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  Great drivable SUV - 2014 Mazda CX-9
  By Joseph masterson - July 2 - 3:13 am

  Test this car before buying another SUV

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  I love my CX9! - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By JJ - June 28 - 2:03 am

  I traded in my BMW 3-series because it was giving me nothing but problems. As much as I love European cars, I just could not deal with the constant repairs once my car hit the 80,000 mile mark. I decided to trade my car in since it was still in good condition (after all repairs), now was the time! I was leaning towards getting a Lexus or Infiniti SUV, but noticed the Mazda. I am so happy that I got the CX-9 because it was thousands cheaper and still fully loaded. I love the 19-inch stock rims, dual exhaust chrome pipes, the interior is so spacious, and I feel so safe. This car is a great combo of the 2 SUVs I originally wanted to, so now I have the best of both worlds...but even better!

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  First Mazda owned - 2009 Mazda CX-9
  By Chamberis - June 19 - 4:56 am

  Totaled our 06 Sonata, been looking at CX9 since it came out in 07. Purchased for wife and kids. Plenty of room, very comfortable. Exterior looks great. So far we have 2k on it and it rides and drives as good as our Sonata did. Handles like a sedan, but you can pack the kitchen sink in it. Great hiway cruiser if you stay away from the 20" wheels, plus the 18" on the touring wont cost $200+ to replace and they look just as good. Overall very impressed. Snagged one of the last 09s in the state, discounts and rebates marked it down almost 6k off the stickers. 2009 looks just like the 2010! Dont see many on the road which is nice, people always asking what we are driving.

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  Go zoom zoom mommy - 2013 Mazda CX-9
  By cgllane - June 1 - 3:44 am

  Just got our new CX-9 in May. We have already put nearly 6000 miles on it, and have loved every mile. My daughter likes to say go zoom zoom mommy, so I do. It is so much fun to drive and comfortable for the whole family on our long road trips. We love it. And the staff at Freeway Mazda in Ogden were all great to deal with.

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  Great value for a cool CUV - 2009 Mazda CX-9
  By Sagar - May 31 - 5:46 pm

  As the reviews said CX-9 is a cool design, great drive and excellent value for money. Drives like a car, is a very roomy people carrier with sporty looks. Am getting about 20 - 21 mpg during the first month!

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  pleasant surprise - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By mph 120 - May 27 - 2:50 am

  Purchased this vehicle without any reviews available. So far pleasantly surprised. With 6 members in our family and several ski trips to Vermont yearly, this vehicle fit the bill. Well designed interior, with large rear doors to easily access third row seating. No OEM roof rack available at time of sale is a major error for an SUV.

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  Great Crossover - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By talydude - May 25 - 12:47 am

  Bought a used 2010 Touring with Bose package/rear view/ power lift around a week back. Like it so far. Drive is very smooth. Transitioning from car, rear view camera helps a lot. Very calm until 60 miles. after that gets little noisy. Did i say drive is smooth. yep.

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  Great bang for the buck - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By mitch - May 22 - 2:00 am

  Really nice price on a well built car. Wind noise on the highway is annoying, and interior lacks storage, but overall a great deal.