Mazda CX-9

Mazda CX-9 is a three-row midsize crossover SUV produced from 2006 to 2024. It was developed mainly for North American and other export markets and, despite being built in Japan, was not sold in the Japanese domestic market. It was replaced in several markets by the larger Mazda CX-90. 

The first generation (2006–2015) used a front-wheel-drive-based platform with available all-wheel drive. Early models had a 3.5-liter V6, later replaced by a 3.7-liter V6 producing around 273 horsepower. It was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and focused on smooth power delivery, seven-seat practicality and more car-like handling than traditional body-on-frame SUVs. Updates in 2010 and 2013 refreshed styling, interior equipment and safety features.

The second generation, launched in 2016, moved to Mazda’s Skyactiv engineering approach and became lighter despite offering similar family space. It replaced the V6 with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine producing up to about 250 horsepower on premium fuel and strong low-end torque. The model used a 6-speed automatic transmission, front-wheel drive or i-Activ all-wheel drive, and added more advanced driver assistance, better cabin refinement and a more premium interior finish.

In user reviews, the Mazda CX-9 is often described as the family SUV for people who do not want their family SUV to feel dull. Owners like its sharp steering, comfortable seats, upscale cabin and smooth turbo engine. It feels smaller on the road than its size suggests, which is a common compliment. Criticism usually concerns limited third-row space for adults, smaller cargo volume than some rivals, higher real-world fuel use when fully loaded and the fact that towing capacity trails larger V6 or V8 SUVs.