2007-2008 Mazda CX-9: Road Test

Adequate from a stop, the original 3.5-liter engine lacks sufficient reserves for highway passing, especially with more than two passengers aboard. The 3.7-liter V6 of 2008 provides only a nominal performance boost. The transmission is generally alert and responsive, negating the need for its manual shift gate-but it's sometimes slow to downshift for more passing punch. Overall, these large crossovers have sufficient power, and no difference is noticeable between 2WD and AWD models. Maximum towing capacity is 3500 pounds. Fuel economy could be better. An extended-use 2007 AWD model with the 3.5-liter V6 averaged 17.0 mpg. Later 3.7-liter models averaged 17.3 to 18.1 mpg with slightly more highway driving than city use. Each CX-9 uses regular-grade gasoline. Mazda's seven-seater rides more firmly than others in its class. Firm suspension tuning and the Grand Touring model's standard 20-inch tires don't smother large bumps as well as the Ford Edge. An extended-use Touring model with 18-inch tires could react harshly to small bumps. On the other hand, Grands actually cope with similar bumps with greater composure and stability. Steering feels slightly numb on-center, but is nicely weighted while cornering. Some body lean is evident in fast turns. A tidy turning radius makes the CX-9 easy to maneuver in tight spots-something of a surprise for a vehicle this large. Solid braking control is evident, though one test Grand Touring had slightly mushy pedal feel. Quietness is a CX-9 virtue. The 3.5-liter engine is barely noticed while cruising and at idle, and sounds refined while accelerating. The newer engine is just as refined and smooth. Wind noise is generally low, but rises markedly with the sunroof open. Coarse-surface tire thrum intrudes, too, especially in the Grand Touring model. Gauges are easy to read most of the time. Like other Mazdas, the CX-9 has two backlight settings for the instrument panel and major controls. In low light and foggy conditions, "day" mode makes the display too bright. "Night" mode is too dim. Most controls fall easily to hand on models without a navigation system. The navigation unit is separate from climate controls, but integrates many audio functions, complicating some simple adjustments. It also places some buttons and knobs beyond easy reach. Further, its voice control understands only commands that are precisely worded and loudly spoken. Interiors combine padded surfaces and textured plastics to good overall effect. Front legroom is ample, but tall occupants may wish for more headroom, even if a sunroof isn't installed. Chair-height seating provides a commanding view forward and to the side. The optional Bose-brand audio system mounts speakers on rear roof pillars, compromising aft visibility. Rear-seat riders get adult-size headroom and legroom, even with front seats set far back. The sliding and reclining second-row seat is a comfort plus. Despite a somewhat narrow door opening, access to the third row is easy. Adults will be comfortable for short trips in the third row, as long as the second-row seat is not all the way back. Cargo space is decent with the third-row seat up, ample with that seat down, and cavernous with the second row folded. The third row folds flat, but the second row is slightly raised above the cargo floor, which can impede loading of large items. All doors have convenient map pockets. Small-item interior storage is otherwise average. The center console looks large, but lacks useful volume.

Value for the Money
Mazda's CX-9 is a stylish, refined entry that adeptly balances solid driving dynamics with generous passenger and cargo space. On the downside, the ride is a bit stiff and the available navigation system isn't the easiest to use. Lack of highway passing punch is another demerit. Still, this Best Buy pick does many things well and is a good choice in an increasingly crowded field of seven-seat midsize SUVs.