2007-2008 Mazda CX-9: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Mazda's first seven-passenger sport-utility vehicle bowed for 2007. Like Mazda's five-seat CX-7 SUV, the CX-9 was a car-type midsize "crossover" wagon. But this one was larger and borrowed its engine and some underskin from the also-new Edge produced by Ford, Mazda's corporate parent. Offered in Sport, Touring, and top-line Grand Touring models, the CX-7 held a 263-horsepower V6 and six-speed automatic transmission. All models were available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, which lacked low-range gearing. Antilock braking and traction/antiskid control with rollover sensors were standard. So were front side airbags and curtain side airbags that covered all three seating rows, and included rollover deployment. Seating included folding benches; the second row split 60/40, the third row 50/50. The second-row seat reclined and slid fore and aft to favor passenger or cargo space. Tri-zone climate control and a tilt and telescopic steering wheel were standard. Touring models added leather upholstery and heated power front seats. Grand Tourings included xenon headlamps and 20-inch wheels, versus the usual 18s. A sunroof and DVD entertainment were optional, but could not be ordered together. A power liftgate and a navigation system with rearview camera were available on Touring and Grand Touring models. Competitors included the GMC Acadia, Honda Pilot, Saturn Outlook, and Toyota Highlander.