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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  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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  Stay away from this Car and all following years - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By Anthony Chestnut - November 5 - 4:25 pm

  I got the 2007 as a used car 2013. i purchased this car from a dealership and they perform no working on the car. I had to give the car a full check up from my pocket. I had to change the tires. I can understand these situations but when you hear about. Now I am hearing the Mazda dealer ship they have to check the suspension and the same day the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened investigation into suspension it starts to make you wonder if Mazda is hiding something. It seems like they are selling a lemon hear. http://www.edmunds.com/car-news/feds-probe-2007-08-mazda-cx-9-after-suspension-complaints.html

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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.

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  Enjoying the zoom zoom - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By Mazda Mom - October 4 - 10:06 pm

  I have not owned a new vehicle in 9 years. I have been doing research for a while and really investigated the Mazda CX7 and CX9. I had been driving a Dodge Durango and loved it. My husband did not want a smaller vehicle so we drove the CX9. I really like the looks of the CX9. My only complaint is that I settled for the black interior which I know will be very hot in the summer.

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  Bye Bye Hummer - 2009 Mazda CX-9
  By bedhead - September 29 - 2:10 pm

  I drove a 2007 Hummer H3 for about a year before I decided to look at some other options. I cant believe I wasted a year of car payments on the Hummer. After driving the Grand Touring model I was sold. The ride is superb and the features are great. I thought I would miss the Hummer but I was wrong!!

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  Still fun after 2 yrs. - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By Yee Haw - September 27 - 1:40 pm

  Still has plenty of Zoom Zoom in it. Have had this as my primary vehical for two yrs and have not regretted one minute of it. Long trips (800+ miles one way) are a breeze. Hooked up a PS2 and the kids are happy. Head phones make Us happy, and the ride make everyone happy.

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  Most fun Crossover to drive - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By Bobzilla - September 14 - 2:56 am

  I test drive the Saturn Outlook, the new 2008 Highlander, Honda Pilot and the 2007 Acura MDX. The CX-9 was more fun to drive than all of them and still gave me a real third row seat. I took my 22 year old son with me and we both tried getting in and out of the back seats in all of them and the Mazda was the easiest. I found this the ideal car for taking my road bike to the club starting point and hauling 7 family members to dinner and the most fun to drive of all the cars. Economy seems the same as my 1997 Camry V6 so far on the first two tanks.

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  Great Crossover SUV! - 2009 Mazda CX-9
  By Mike Ferguson - September 9 - 8:50 pm

  Let me start by saying we never expected to like this vehicle so much. It was more of a "lets take a look so we can eliminate one more option". But when you get behind the wheel and give this SUV a good look trust me if you buy another SUV I will be shocked. It is as close to perfect as you will find. It is simply THE best kept secret in the mid-size SUV/Crossover market. Great size not to big not too small. Usable third row with as much legroom as many full size SUV. Great build quality. Smart engineering and logical design/layout. Drives as much like a sports car as possible in an SUV. All the safety features. Unbelievable upscale features on the Grand Touring for the money.