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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  Accident - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By SB Soccer mom - December 5 - 6:06 pm

  I was hit on the passenger side by a someone who ran a red light. The impact was so hard it rolled my car. I walked away with only a sprain!! Highly recommend this vehicle for safety!! I will get another CX-9!

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  WOW.... - 2011 Mazda CX-9
  By elise79 - November 20 - 7:25 am

  I just traded in my 2007 Honda CR-V EX-L for the CX-9 Touring. With this car we also got the Bose stereo, moon roof, power lift gate, bluetooth, and I few other bells and whistles I believe I am forgetting. We were deciding between this and the Honda Pilot EX-L, but it came down to price and options and the Honda couldnt touch the value in the CX-9. With tons more features, better styling and handling, we got the CX-9 for over $150 less per month! The interior is beautiful and there is a TON of space. The bluetooth is actually clear to those on the receiving end, something I have not experienced with any other car. The exterior is sleek and nice.

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  Glad we waited - 2007 Mazda CX-9
  By dmssksan - November 19 - 8:10 pm

  I started researching SUVs and crossovers 6 months ago and test drove the Lexus, Audi and BMW. The CX-9 was the last vehicle I drove and hands down it was the best. Mazda has really given us a beatuiful and smooth vehicle to drive. All the other car manufacturers should look at the CX-9 as a role model.

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  WOW - A MUST DRIVE - 2009 Mazda CX-9
  By Larry - November 18 - 11:33 am

  After several months of looking at all SUVs and X-overs I selected the CX-9. Am I glad I did - the build quality, workmanship, features, value, fuel economy (first 240 miles city with 62 miles freeway got 18.5 MPG!!), fun to drive, and performance all add up to a best in class up and down the price scale. Much better than all contenders. This is a little known gem that will have a very bright future as soon as folks get to know and see them on the road. Outstanding lines, sports car handling, family friendly, equally at home in a tux or Levis. This is a rare find in a market cluttered with "me too" and "ordinary offerings". A must drive if you are in the market, no disappointments here.

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  Love my CX-9 - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By John Stark - November 15 - 11:56 pm

  I test drove the 2010 CX-9, Highlander, Acadia and Flex. Key requirement was 3rd row of seats and fun to drive. After driving and researching all it came down to the Highlander and CX-9. Mazda CX-9 won on these items: - 3rd row is split. - More room behind 3rd row. Highlander barely had room for a row of groceries. - Access to 3rd row was WAY easier for the munchkins and adults than the Higlander. - Cx-9 is was more fun to drive. I liked the Highlander, but the Mazda has way more performance. Engine is smooth and shifts almost stealth. - Fit and finish is solid. Very nice looking car.

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  Sharp car - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By hk - November 13 - 8:46 am

  Very nice looking and driving car for SUV wife loves it in black on black leather very plush only complaint is a little better fuel mileage tons of space though! For the money nothing comes close, tried Honda Pilot , what an over rated ride so crappy and plasticy. Toyota cost more and I have more room in the Mazda and it is sharper looking!

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  2nd one! - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By jjp - November 11 - 10:26 am

  Just traded a 2007 CX-9 Grand Touring for a 2010. Guess that says it all. Residual value was awesome after 3 years and had no issues with at all in 3 years. Most stylish people mover on the market.

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  A great family hauler - with style - 2008 Mazda CX-9
  By Mark - November 7 - 9:00 am

  We purchased our CX9 after looking at the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford TaurusX, Volvo XC70, as well as the Subaru Outback and Tribeca. We decided the CX9 had everything we were looking for; Room, utility, horsepower, great driving habits, and last but not least great looks - in and out. With the exception of a early stability control issue it has been trouble free. Surprised not see more of these on the road.

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  New owner of Mazda CX 9 - 2010 Mazda CX-9
  By xlostlaker - November 6 - 1:40 pm

  Only had my new CX9 FWD for 3 weeks but everything favorable written about it in other reviews by actual owners, is pretty much true. I bought the Sport Model and had leather seats and Sirius radio installed.

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  New 2016 cx9 signature - 2016 Mazda CX-9
  By Ike walton - November 6 - 6:31 am

  Fantastic SUV. Dont let the 4cyl turbo dissuade you. More torque than competitors and uses Regular unleaded. Needs 3rd row climate control in Desert climate. Bose is spectacular. All safety features great except the City braking feature to sensitive at times. Ingress and egress to third row good , however 3rd row is not for adults . Power band on the low to mid range . Once more the 5k rpm power tapers off significantly. Outside styling is spectacular. 20 in wheels ride comfort is above average. Interior color scheme nice. Materials are soft and comfortable. Mpg initially 16 avg. but has improved to 20 combined. Hwy 26 is almost as rated. Overall the drivers choice for an SUV for sheer driving dynamics. Transmission is smooth as silk. Only the highlander and pilot come in around a 7/10 and 8/10 respectively. Mazda is 10/10. Mazda hit this out of the park. Extremely capable family hauler with style and pizzaz. Its obvious that at Mazda, driving matters!!