Grand Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 250 hp 6A)
Touring 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Grand Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Grand Touring 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl 250 hp 6A)
Grand Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Grand Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 250 hp 6A)
Touring 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Grand Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl 250 hp 6A)
Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Grand Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Sport 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
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Grand Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
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Sport 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Grand Touring 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Signature 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Touring 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Grand Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Overall Rating
Mazda CX-9 stands out as a different choice in the three-row crossover market. The 2019 CX-9 represents the second generation which embodies Mazda’s KODO design. CX-9 has some refreshing elements at its disposal – an athletic design, eager handling, and upscale interior.
Mazda CX-9 stands out as a different choice in the three-row crossover market. The 2019 CX-9 represents the second generation which embodies Mazda's KODO design. CX-9 has some refreshing elements at its disposal - an athletic design, eager handling, and upscale interior. Its engine produces one of the best torque outputs in the segment and yields excellent low-speed drivability. The Mazda CX-9 is available with a 6-speed automatic transmission and a standard FWD configuration.
The Touring trim comes with additional creature comforts like leather-trimmed seats, 8-inch infotainment system with support for Apple Carplay and Android Auto. With the available smartphone integration, you don't need to get the optional Touring package for navigation. These features will make your ownership experience a more pleasurable affair.
Signature 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Mazda CX-9 stands out as a different choice in the three-row crossover market. The 2019 CX-9 represents the second generation which embodies Mazda’s KODO design. CX-9 has some refreshing elements at its disposal – an athletic design, eager handling, and upscale interior.
Mazda CX-9 stands out as a different choice in the three-row crossover market. The 2019 CX-9 represents the second generation which embodies Mazda's KODO design. CX-9 has some refreshing elements at its disposal - an athletic design, eager handling, and upscale interior. Its engine produces one of the best torque outputs in the segment and yields excellent low-speed drivability. The Mazda CX-9 is available with a 6-speed automatic transmission and a standard FWD configuration.
The Mazda CX-9 is available in 4 well-appointed trim levels. The base Sport trim brings a lot of standard features to the table. Considering the $32,280 price tag, it offers immense value for money. It offers three-zone automatic climate control, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment display, rear privacy glass, and safety features like Smart City Brake Support automatic emergency braking, Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.
Trim |
Sport |
Touring |
Grand Touring |
Signature |
---|---|---|---|---|
MSRP |
$32,280 |
$35,330 |
$40,840 |
$45,365 |
Key Features |
MAZDA CONNECT infotainment system with 7-inch full-color touch-screen display |
Adds or deletes feature from Sport plus: |
Adds or deletes feature from Touring plus: |
Adds or deletes feature from Grand Touring plus: |
18-inch alloy wheels with P255/60 R18 tires |
8-inch full-color touch-screen display |
20-inch alloy wheels |
i-ACTIV AWD |
|
SKYACTIV-VEHICLE DYNAMICS with G-Vectoring Control |
Rear Power Liftgate |
Power sliding-glass moonroof with sunshade |
LED signature grille accent lighting |
|
Three-zone automatic climate control |
Auto-on/off headlights |
Automatic power-folding side mirrors |
Genuine Santos Rosewood interior trim |
|
Remote keyless entry |
Heated side mirrors |
Heated steering wheel |
LED shifter accent lighting |
|
Cloth-trimmed seats |
Leather-trimmed seats |
Aluminum interior trim |
Auburn Nappa leather-trimmed seats |
|
Cruise control |
Apple CarPlay integration and Android Auto integration |
SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link Services |
||
POWER DRIVER'S SEAT PACKAGE(Optional) |
TOURING PREMIUM PACKAGE (Optional) |
7-inch TFT multi-information display |
For an increase of $3,000, the touring trim brings in a rear power tailgate, heated side mirrors, leather-trimmed seats, a larger (8.0-inch) infotainment system, and Apple Carplay and Android Auto.
The Grand Touring trim is equipped with 20-inch alloys, front and rear parking, and exterior chrome accents sensors. The top-spec Signature trim is the flagship model, the luxury on offer rivals vehicles from a segment higher. It brings in Auburn Nappa leather seats, a hand-stitched, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and Santos rosewood interior trim.
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The Touring trim comes with additional creature comforts like leather-trimmed seats, 8-inch infotainment system with support for Apple Carplay and Android Auto. With the available smartphone integration, you don't need to get the optional Touring package for navigation. These features will make your ownership experience a more pleasurable affair.
Mazda has decided to keep things simple in the engine bay. The automaker only offers a single engine across all the trim levels. This 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engineproduces 227 horsepower. The engine is smooth and offers massive low end-power and seems well suited for city travel.
All the power is transferred to the wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission. Unlike a few competitors, Mazda doesn't offer paddle shifters. If you want to shift manually, you have to use the manual mode on the shifter. The 6-speed automatic is standard across the range but competitors like Honda and Toyota use 9-speed and 8-speed automatic transmissions on the higher trims. Mazda's 6-speed is smooth and accomplishes its shifting duties without any hesitation.
Models |
2019 Mazda CX-9 |
2019 Toyota Highlander |
2019 Honda Pilot |
2019 Ford Explorer |
2019 Subaru Ascent |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
MSRP |
$36,260 |
$31,450 |
$32,365 |
$31,995 |
|
Engine |
2.5-Liter SKYACTIV-G |
3.5-Liter V6 |
3.5-liter V6 |
3.5-liter Ti-VCT V6 |
2.4-liter turbocharged Subaru Boxer 4-cylinder |
Transmission |
6-speed Automatic |
6-Speed Automatic |
6-Speed Automatic |
6-Speed Automatic |
CVT |
Horsepower |
227 hp @ 5,000 rpm |
295 hp @ 6600 |
280hp @ 6000 |
288 @ 6500 |
260 hp @ 5,600 |
Torque |
310 lb-ft @ 2,000 rpm |
263 lb.-ft. @ 4700 rpm |
262 lb.-ft. @ 4700 rpm |
254 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm |
277 lb-ft. @ 2,000 rpm |
When we consider power output, Highlander offers 295 hp followed by Ford's 288 hp output. On paper, Mazda CX-9 has the least power output but when we consider drivability the CX-9 has the best torque output in this comparison. It is really easy to drive.
The CX-9 hurls to 60 mph within 7.1 seconds, the quarter-mile is achieved in 15.5 seconds. Leave the stats aside and as you get behind the wheel of a CX-9 you will find it to be one of the sportiest three-row crossovers in the segment.
The entirety of its 310 lb-ft. torque is available as early as 2000 rpm. Unlike other crossovers, you don't have to push the pedal to the metal to extract the last drop of performance from the engine.
Models |
Mazda CX-9 |
Toyota Highlander |
Honda Pilot |
Ford Explorer |
Subaru Ascent |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
0-60 MPH |
7.1 seconds |
7.2 seconds |
6.2 seconds |
8.2 seconds |
6.9 seconds |
Quarter mile |
15.5seconds |
15.5 seconds |
14.8 seconds |
16.3 seconds |
15.5 seconds |
Engine |
2.5 L |
3.5 L V6 |
3.5 L V6 |
3.5 L V6 |
2.4 L H4 |
Emission (Tons/yr. of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year) |
Honda's segment-best 6.2-second run is followed by Subaru's 6.9-second. Honda's 3.5-liter I-Vtec needs to be revved to extract that segment's leading performance. Let's face it, large three-row crossovers aren't meant to be used that way. And when you compare the Honda Pilot with the Mazda CX-9 you will find the latter to be a much-accomplished driver's vehicle.
At 199.4-inches, the CX-9 is the longest vehicle in this segment. Get inside one and you will be surprised to find how well Mazda has designed it. It hides its size so well. Mazda has gone a step forward and designed the CX-9 to actually offer qualities that are not prerequisites for a three-row family crossover.
The CX-9 handles better than other vehicles in its segment. The steering provides great feedback and lets you know the exact status of the front tires. If you push the CX-9 around corners, it will lean a bit but hold its line well. Visibility is good, you have wide side view mirrors, and getting accustomed to driving the CX-9 wouldn't take much time.
Mazda CX-9 tips the scales at 4317 lbs. and under emergency braking test it performed well. The CX-9 came to a standstill from 60 mph within a distance of 123 feet. Impressive performance given its heft.
Getting a good bite from the brakes is never an ordeal as Mazda has tuned the initial bite and progressive feel to how well with the crossover's intended use.
Model |
2019 Mazda CX-9 |
2019 Toyota Highlander |
2019 Honda Pilot |
2019 Ford Explorer |
2019 Subaru Ascent |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Brake Front (in.) |
12.6 |
12.9 |
12.6 |
12.8 |
13.1 |
Brake Rear (in.) |
12.8 |
12.2 |
13 |
12.8 |
13 |
Curb Weight (lbs.) |
4317 |
4244 |
4036 |
4458 |
4430 |
60-0 MPH (ft.) |
123 |
128 |
117 (est.) |
108 (With optional tires) |
119 |
When we compare the CX-9, we find that Mazda needs some improvement here. Ford Explorer, when equipped with stickier tires, pulls off the same feat within 108 feet. Honda Pilot does it within 117 feet.
Unlike the towing trend of this segment, Mazda offers a lower towing capacity. The CX-9 can tow a maximum of 3500 lbs. Mazda sacrifices utility in favor of proving a more engaging driving experience.
Model |
2019 Mazda CX-9 |
2019 Toyota Highlander |
2019 Honda Pilot |
2019 Ford Explorer |
2019 Subaru Ascent |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Capacity (lbs.) |
3500 |
5000 |
3500 |
5000 |
5000 |
Drivetrain |
FWD |
FWD |
FWD |
FWD |
AWD |
Engine |
2.5 L I4 |
3.5 L V6 |
3.5 L V6 |
3.5 L V6 |
2.4 L H4 |
Mazda is never the full brawny SUV that consumers use to haul, instead, it's a soft roader that commands a good driving position. That said, 3500 pounds is a welcome addition.
The 2019 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a 2.5-liter engine, it is larger only than Subaru's 2.4-liter engine. Other competitors utilize a 3.5-liter V6 engine. The CX-9 pulls off a combined mpg of 23. Mazda can increase the fuel economy further by introducing a start-stop function.
Model |
2019 Mazda CX-9 |
2019 Toyota Highlander |
2019 Honda Pilot |
2019 Ford Explorer |
2019 Subaru Ascent |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
MPG (city) |
22 |
19 |
19 |
17 |
21 |
MPG (highway) |
28 |
26 |
27 |
24 |
27 |
MPG (combined) |
23 |
22 |
22 |
20 |
23 |
Looking at the competition, the newly introduced Subaru Ascent delivers a similar fuel economy. It offers a combined mpg of 23. The Ford Explorer on the other hand is a bit of a disappointment.
For a non-luxury brand, Mazda has done a great job. The interior quality of the CX-9 is surely class-leading. Soft-touch materials have been generously used across the cabin. The CX-9 can accommodate only 7 passengers. The CX-9 is a little low on utility. Unlike the competition, it only offers minimal space for storing miscellaneous items.
When we talk about the first row, the seats provide good cushioning. The driver and passenger have heated seats and power-adjustable seats while the higher trims also offer ventilated seats. The Sport trim offers cloth upholstery while higher trims offer leather-trimmed seats and the top-spec Signature trim offers Nappa-leather seats.
Three-zone climate control is a standard feature, the second row can accommodate 3 passengers albeit there is a slight bump on the floor. The passenger sitting in the middle needs to adjust accordingly. The CX-9 doesn't offer the best amenities for the third-row passengers. CX-9 has one of the lowest passenger volumes in the third row.
Model |
2019 Mazda CX-9 |
2019 Toyota Highlander |
2019 Honda Pilot |
2019 Ford Explorer |
2019 Subaru Ascent |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Passenger capacity |
7 |
8 |
8 |
7 |
8 |
Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.) |
39.3/57.9/41.0 |
40.7/59.3/44.2 |
40.1/ 62/40.9 |
41.4/61.5/42.9 |
41.3/61.1/42.2 |
Second (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.) |
38.5/ 58.1/39.4 |
39.9/59.6/38.4 |
40.2/62/38.4 |
40.6/61/39.5 |
40/ 60.3/ 38.6 |
Third (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.) |
35.4/53.1/29.7 |
35.9/55.0/27.7 |
38.9/57.6/31.9 |
37.8/50.8/32 |
36.3/57.2/31.7 |
Unlike the Honda Pilot, Mazda CX-9 doesn't offer electronically foldable second-row seats. So, to access the third row you need to pull a lever behind the seat and push the seat to make a passage for entering the third row. Although the Mazda is the longest crossover in the segment, it fails to provide good third-row space for the passengers.
The base trim offers a 7-inch touchscreen display and the higher trims upgrade it to an 8-inch display which comes with standard Apple Carplay and Android Auto. Mazda incorporates a dial-based controller for the infotainment system. You can use the touch screen only when the car is stationary, on the move use the controller. Like German cars, the volume dial has been placed adjacent to the shifter.
Bose audio system is a standard feature on Grand Touring trim and above. The floating infotainment screen gives the cabin a more upscale touch.
The Mazda CX-9 offers 14.4 cu-ft. of space behind the third row. The CX-9 offers something else, it is a better driver's car in the three-row family crossover segment.
The Mazda CX-9 doesn't store as much as other competing crossovers in the segment. Ford Explorer offers the best in class - 21 cu-ft. of rear cargo space.
Model |
2019 Mazda CX-9 |
2019 Toyota Highlander |
2019 Honda Pilot |
2019 Ford Explorer |
2019 Subaru Ascent |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Cargo Volume (cu-ft.) |
14.4 |
13.8 |
16.5 |
21 |
17.8 |
"If you're looking for a bit of elegance in your next family hauler, the CX-9 has it in spades. Dressed in Mazda's "Soul of Motion" design philosophy, the CX-9's sheet metal emphasizes sweeping forms, organic shapes, and the idea of movement even at rest. We think it's beautiful."-KelleyBlueBook
CX-9 is on the heavier side in this segment, tips the scale at 4317 pounds. At 199.4 inches, the CX-9 is the longest crossover in this segment.
Model |
2019 Mazda CX-9 |
2019 Toyota Highlander |
2019 Honda Pilot |
2019 Ford Explorer |
2019 Subaru Ascent |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Curb weight (lbs.) |
4317 |
4244 |
4036 |
4458 |
4430 |
Length(in) |
199.4 |
192.5 |
196.5 |
198.3 |
196.8 |
Width(in) |
77.5 |
75.8 |
78.6 |
78.9 |
76 |
Height(in) |
69.0 |
68.1 |
70.6 |
70 |
71.6 |
Ground clearance (in) |
8.8 |
8.0 |
7.3 |
7.8 |
8.7 |
Wheelbase (in) |
115.3 |
109.8 |
111 |
112.8 |
113.8 |
Track width (in) F/R |
65.3/65.2 |
64.4/64.2 |
66.3/66.3 |
67/67 |
64.4/ 64.2 |
Although it has a wheelbase of 115.3 inches it doesn't offer the best cabin space in this segment. With 8.8-inches of ground clearance, the Mazda beats the newly introduced Subaru Ascent by 0.1 inches.
The Mazda CX-9 scores well on the safety tests conducted by NHTSA and IIHS, both. CX-9 scores an overall 5-star rating from NHTSA while it receives a Good score on most of the categories by IIHS. The 2019 CX-9 is equipped with features like Smart Brake Support, Lane Keep Assist, and Smart City Brake Support.
Honda Pilot produces 280 horsepower from its normally aspirated V6 engine. Pricing for the Honda Pilot starts at $31,450. The 2019 Honda Pilot has incorporated many changes. Honda has a very intuitive infotainment system on offer but Mazda’s cabin feels more premium.
The Pilot scores well on utility as it offers electrically operated second-row seats for convenient third-row access. But when we consider drivability, the CX-9 comes off as a better choice.
Explorer is one of the oldest nameplates in this segment. The 3.5-liter V6 engine is rated for 288 horsepower. The Explorer offers a spacious cabin, decent off-roading capacity and the versatility of three engine choices.
.The Mazda has only one engine on offer – a 2.5-liter inline four. Ford Explorer offers more features than the CX-9 but it comes at a bigger price tag
Subaru Ascent is the newest contender in the three-row crossover segment. It is powered by a four-cylinder boxer engine. Like CX-9, the Ascent is also one of the better driving vehicles in the market.
And when it comes to standard features, Ascent is equipped with standard AWD, Subaru’s Eyesight safety system and offers better cargo and passenger volume than the Mazda CX-9. If you want a good-driving crossover without compromising on utility then Ascent comes off as a better choice.
The Mazda offers a well-built class-leading interior, plush ride, and a well-engineered inline-four engine that cements CX-9's image as a driver's car. The Mazda CX-9 is one of the better-driving cars in this segment. The engine has a good low-end grunt and a powerful midrange. You don't need to push the engine to its limit to extract its best performance.
Mazda isn't the best vehicle if utility is high on your list. The maximum towing capacity is 3500 lbs. and unlike its competitors, CX-9's cargo and passenger volume aren't impressive. If you can compromise on utility a bit, then the Mazda CX-9 is a choice that will have you grinning ear to ear every time you get behind the wheel.