2009 Mazda CX-9

Reviewers almost unanimously praise the Mazda CX-9 midsize crossover SUV for its lively performance and sporty handling. While some test drivers make clear that the CX-9 is no sports sedan, they say it offers a more engaging driving experience than virtually any other moderately priced midsize SUV or crossover. In a Popular Mechanics comparison test, the Mazda CX-9 takes first place. Editor Ben Stewart comments, "the CX-9 most cohesively satisfied a need to carry a large family and a desire for spirited driving, and wraps it all in a downright sexy package." Indeed, the Mazda's sleek styling appeals to many critics, who say it's a pleasant stand-out among many conservative SUV designs. More kudos for the Mazda CX-9's dynamic appeal come from Edmunds Inside Line's Erin Riches, who calls the midsize people-mover "a crossover you'll take actual joy in driving."

The sole engine choice in Mazda's seven-passenger midsize SUV is a 273-horsepower, 3.7-liter V-6, matched with a six-speed automatic transmission. NewCarTestDrive.com's Christopher Jensen mentions a tendency of the front-drive model to pull to one side during heavy acceleration, a condition known as torque steer. This problem disappears on all-wheel-drive models, which automatically transfer power to the wheels with the most traction. Jensen warns that while the Mazda CX-9 does indeed engage the driver, the "price for the responsive handling, however, is a relatively stiff ride."

Fuel economy could be better

Fuel economy is not a strength of Mazda's midsize SUV, according to reviewers. Environmental Protection Agency estimates rate the front-drive Mazda CX-9 at 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway, or 15 mpg city and 21 mpg highway with all-wheel drive. ConsumerGuide.com testers achieved between 17.3 and 18.1 mpg with test vehicles, and MotherProof.com's Lori Hindman reported getting a disappointing 15.3 mpg. Hindman comments that the Mazda CX-9's generous interior volume is great for seven passengers. Other reviewers back up this assertion, saying that there's sufficient room for two adults in the third row, despite the low-swept roofline. "Even if you have a family of 6-footers, you can get regular use out of the second and third rows," writes Inside Line's Riches. Folding both rows of rear seats gives the Mazda CX-9 101 cubic feet of cargo capacity. Maximum towing capacity for this family-friendly midsize SUV is 3,500 pounds.

Reviewers are in general agreement that the Mazda CX-9 provides a welcome environment for its driver. Car and Driver magazine calls the interior "airy," with "natural-looking materials," excellent outward visibility and "bang-on" seating positions. MotherProof's Hindman agrees that the interior is good-looking, but she also points out that some of the instrument panel controls aren't  conveniently within her reach. "The CX-9 seemed to be really wide; the touch-screen and climate controls seemed far away, and I found myself leaning out of my seat to reach them," Hindman says.

Families or active individuals who want even more interior volume in a midsize crossover SUV may also want to consider the Chevrolet Traverse (*Est. $29,215 to $41,975) or its GM platform siblings: The GMC Acadia (*Est. $31,890 to $40,490), Saturn Outlook (*Est. $30,625 to $36,450) or more luxurious Buick Enclave (*Est. $35,070 to $39,380), according to Edmunds.com. While the Mazda CX-9 is called a "great freeway cruiser" by Car and Driver, it loses the magazine's comparison test to the highly-regarded Honda Pilot (Est. $27,695 to $38,495), which exhibits stronger off-road proficiency and can accommodate eight occupants. For better fuel economy and a softer ride, several reviewers recommend the somewhat smaller Toyota Highlander (Est. $25,705 to $34,520) or gas-electric Toyota Highlander Hybrid (Est. $34,700 to $41,020).

Research sources

Several comparison tests pit the Mazda CX-9 against competing midsize SUVs and crossovers. The CX-9 wins a three-vehicle test conducted by Edmunds.com's Inside Line and takes first place again in a 2008 six-crossover comparison conducted by Popular Mechanics. In Car and Driver's comparison of six midsize crossover SUVs, the Mazda CX-9 comes in second behind the Honda Pilot. ConsumerGuide.com gives the CX-9 a Best Buy rating. MotherProof.com gives a perspective from a typical mom with children. NewCarTestDrive.com, Edmunds.com and ConsumerReports.org each deliver comprehensive reviews as well.