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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  2008 Mazda CX-9 - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By kam 0203 - May 24 - 7:00 pm

  Even though Im not a professional reviewer, I see the CX-9 as a step closer to versatility in a vehicle. Love to drive it and is in the top 4 most powerful engines in or around its class.

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  Terrific car! - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By Bob - May 16 - 9:30 pm

  Great bang for the buck with the CX-9. We looked at everything out there, and kept coming back to the Mazda. Have 16K on the car in five months, including several long road trips. Superior performance and handling, including in the twisties in the high mountains. Comfortable after several wheel hours. Head-turning design. Very nice interior, with the two tone leather. Ride is rough with the 20 inch wheels, and Ive never really been a fan of Bridgestone tires, but at the moment, theyre the only vendor for this size tire.

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  Unbelievable Fun and Functional! - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By BAM - May 9 - 6:00 pm

  I love my new CX-9. I had no intention of buying a Mazda - stumbled on the CX-9 by chance. This car handles better than any competitive model I drove. The interior styling and features are very well thought out. The car is so functional - my car is loaded with navigation, Bluetooth phone capability, iPod connection, dual climate controls, etc. Because the spare tire is under the car, versus in the trunk, the third row seats easily fold flat with the tug of a strap and one smooth movement. And the bonus, there is plenty of leg room for the passengers in the third row.

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  What an SUV should be..... - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By NewYorker - May 2 - 7:20 am

  Bought this truck for the family. We just got belted with almost 2 feet of snow. Truck handled it like a champ. Wife loves room. Had deposit on Highlander but went to see the CX9 and had to have it. Highlander is smaller, not enough storage space, 3 row entrance from only 1 side, middle seat in 2 row is small. CX9 drives great and stable. Kids actually want to sit in 3 row. Amazing the 3 row is split fold down.

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  Great 7 Passenger CUV - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By JB03 - April 2 - 2:16 am

  This purchase was for my wife. She was a minivan driver and I have always liked sport sedans. We were both ready to leave our minivan of seven years, but with 3 growing children ages 5 to 12, we needed to maintain 3 rows and 7 passenger capability. Since we have owned 2 previous Mazdas (I currently own the MZ3S) we were very excited about the CX-9. The CX-7 was nice but too small for our needs. This CX-9 fit our needs perfectly. Although a fairly large vehicle at about 200" long and almost 5,0000 lbs, it drives like a sporty sedan on steroids. Acceleration is brisk and the ride is fairly smooth. The BSMS helps to minimize blind spots. Overall we are pleased with this vehicle.

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  Best vehicle I have ever owned...so far. - 2012 Mazda CX-9
  By realtorscott - March 30 - 3:53 pm

  Highly recommended. Feels like you are driving a luxury sedan.

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  GM to Mazda - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By Cactus Driver - March 27 - 10:00 am

  Replaced an 05 Trailblazer. CX-9 is far superior in quality, style and fun factor. Much quieter and better fuel economy than the blazer 6 cyl. The leather seats, and orange dash glow was very easy to read and attractive. Very quiet and great handling on the road. Acceleration was powerful and smooth. No jerky downshifting when trying to merge. Bose sound is a premium. Bluetooth is a must in todays connected environment. This is my first new Mazda and I look forward to a great driving and ownership experience. We got the 2010 Touring FWD. I also did aggressive braking and acceleration and was very impressed. A Zoom-Zoom 4 sure. Beat the Traverse, Edge, Sorento easily!

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  LOVE - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By GMAN - March 25 - 3:20 am

  Simply amazing. LOVE is the only description I can give.

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  Literally a bang for your buck! - 2009 Mazda CX-9
  By Charles Family - March 17 - 11:56 pm

  Picked up the Touring AWD on 9/15/09. All I can say is that Mazda has the gem of 2009 here. Forget Toyota and Ford, test drive the CX-9 and you will be in for a shock. There are items that come standard in this puppy that you would have to get as options on anything else. With the dealer incentives (4k) you are driving away with a vehicle that would cost 40 large anywhere else! Factor in the end of Model year and dealerships trying to get rid of inventory.. there is just a ton of value here! Our 3 kids love this vehicle for the space and the wife adores it because it literally drives like a car. Before you buy anything else.. Test drive the Mazda CX-9

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  Whats Not To Love? - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By John In NJ - March 12 - 10:03 pm

  Got my new CX-9 about a week ago and am still learning about all the wonderful features. It has a firm, sporty ride that doesnt insulate the driver from the road. While visibility is very good for an SUV, the Blind Spot Monitors are superb. Smooth shifting transmission couples with a powerful responsive engine. Interior fit and finish is first rate.