Mazda's largest offering, the CX-9 has no problem transporting seven passengers or a formidable load of cargo. You probably expect that in a crossover of its size, but its responsive handling might come as a surprise. Like other Mazdas, the CX-9 tries hard to be the athlete of its class.
What's New for 2015
The CX-9 is essentially unchanged.
Choosing Your Mazda CX-9
The CX-9 wears a sleek profile for a seven-passenger vehicle, which helps disguise how big it really is. There's 101 cubic-feet of cargo space, enough to put it firmly in the largest class of crossover. The rearmost seat is easily accessible, and the second row slides and reclines to accommodate various seating situations. From behind the wheel, the CX-9 certainly feels smaller than reality thanks to its precise steering and alert suspension. There isn't much more you could ask for in terms of handling.
Every CX-9 gets a 3.7-liter V6 engine with 273 horsepower and a six-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is available across the board and comes with a towing prep package that allows the CX-9 to haul up to 3,500 pounds.
Like other Mazda models, the CX-9 is available in three trim levels: Sport, Touring and Grand Touring.
Sport
Comes with all the standard conveniences expected in this class, plus tri-zone automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, Bluetooth phone and audio, a 5.8-inch touchscreen, and HD and Pandora radio. The Sport's sole option package (which doesn't have a name) adds heated front seats with driver power and heated mirrors.
Grand Touring
Builds on the Touring with upgraded trim inside and out, 20-inch wheels, driver memory, a second-row console, xenon headlamps and LED running lights, automatic wipers and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. The power tailgate and keyless ignition are also standard, and everything else is grouped into the optional Grand Touring Technology package. There's also a Rear Seat Entertainment package, which is similar to the Technology, but replaces the sunroof with a flip-down video screen that plays DVDs.
The price between the trim levels is quite small for what you get in return. Buyers have apparently figured this out, and most examples sitting on dealer lots are heavily equipped.