The CX-9 is an elegant, luxurious and well-constructed vehicle. It’s turbo four is quick and flexible, but the lack of engine refinement when accelerating hard could be a deal breaker for some buyers. Combined overall fuel economy of 12.4L per 100 kilometres in moderate summer weather is not that impressive considering the operational refinement drivers are giving up by substituting a turbo four for the expected V6. Like other current Mazdas, the new CX-9 has precise, nicely weighted steering and a ride-handling balance that combines a firmly compliant ride with crisp handling.
The driver faces clearly marked, traditional gauges and controls for audio and climate functions are straightforward, even though the climate controls are hidden away at the base of the dash centre stack. The front compartment is dominated by a massive, and very high centre console which is meant to replicate the intimacy of a sports car cabin. It looks great, but makes drivers feel hemmed in. The front seats are comfortable enough but a lack of vertical and pitch adjustment makes attaining a comfortable driving position difficult. The large-dimensioned middle row seat is sumptuously comfortable and occupants enjoy expansive legroom. Like most three-row CUVs, the last row seats are best for children or for short hops by adults. The CX-9’s cabin is very elegant and constructed from very attractive components. While long and wide, cargo space is somewhat limited by its shallow height between the cargo floor and the window line.

The sole engine offered in the CX-9 is Mazda’s own 2.5L turbo four. All-wheel drive is standard for 2020.

The base GS trim, with a forward colision warning, autonomous emergency braking, active cruise control with stop and go, L.E.D. headlights, the iOS-Android cellphone interface, a power driver’s seat, heated front seats, deep tint glass and rain-sense wipers, is comprehensively equipped. The GS-L, which includes leather seating, a power tailgate, a sunroof, keyless starting, wireless cellphone charging, heated steering wheel and second-row seats and a number of minor comfort and convenience items, is a bargain and equipped in a way to satisfy many buyers. The GT adds a head-up display system, reverse auto braking, navigation, adaptive headlights, a 360 degree camera syste, a Bose-branded audio system, a driver awareness warning, front and rear parking sonars, ventilated front seats and a foot-gesture tailgate operation and is priced to reflect the value of its content. Captain chairs are standard on the Signature trim and a $500 operation on the GS-L et GT. The Kuro edition offers little for the money asked but does offer garnet-hued leather upholstery. The range-topping Signature is reasonably priced given it adds Nappa leather and real wood trim.

Mazda’s unlimited mileage warranties, the three year basic warranty and the five yeaar powertrain warranty, are an advantage for owners who put on lot of mileage. Mazda’s previous turbocharged engines were unreliable so an extended warranty is recommended if you plan to keep the vehicle past the five year powertrain warranty.