Mazda CX 9

Overview: Is the Mazda CX-9 a Good Car?

The Mazda CX-9 combines sporty driving dynamics with family-friendly roominess. Exclusively offered as a three row SUV, the elegant CX-9 seats up to seven passengers. Generous standard features across trim lines make the CX-9 feel upscale and premium inside, while agile reflexes aren’t beholden to its sizable footprint. The CX-9 debuted for the 2007 model year, followed by an all-new second generation in 2016. Mazda dropped the CX-9 after 2023 in favor of the more modern CX-90. The CX-9 competes with other three row SUV crossovers, like the Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, and Toyota Highlander.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Mazda CX-9 cars for sale.

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Related: 7 Great Mazda CX-9 Competitors: Which Alternatives Stack Up

Key Features

The Mazda CX-9 offers:

• Five-door mid size crossover SUV body style
• Turbo inline four-cylinder or V6 power (varies by year)
• Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive (varies by year)
• Automatic transmission

Trims

Core trims for the CX-9 include Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring. In recent years, the automaker added the Mazda CX 9 Signature variant as the top trim. Intermediate trims include the Mazda CX 9 Carbon Edition and Touring Plus.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

The first and second rows of the Mazda CX-9 are spacious and welcoming, while the third row is best reserved for children. Older model years are more straightforward from a technology standpoint, but recent CX-9s have (as standard or optional) the latest driver-assist features and touchscreen infotainment systems. Thanks to a lower roofline, CX-9 cargo space is more compact than its rivals.

How It Drives

The V6 of the first generation and the turbocharged I4 of the second-generation CX-9 provide more than enough motivation for most driving situations, including highway on-ramps. Balanced steering and suspension tuning supply secure road grip without compromising ride quality. The CX-9 doesn’t have the “zoom-zoom” quality of the Miata convertible or Mazda3 or Mazda6 sedans, but it still offers an engaging behind-the-wheel experience.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave most first-generation Mazda CX-9 model years four- to five-star (good to great) ratings for overall safety or performance in specific crash tests. The second-generation scores even better, with five-star rankings.

Reviews

Mazda CX 9 reviews via Kelley Blue Book are quite favorable. Owners rate their CX-9s 4.5-4.6 (out of 5.0), with positive feedback about most factors, including reliability, value, quality, and comfort.

Learn More: Here Are The Mazda CX-9 Years To Avoid and How Long Do Mazda CX-9s Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan

FAQs

Is the Mazda CX-9 worth buying?

Yes, the midsize CX-9 hits a sweet spot between luxury and value among three row family crossovers. Driving enjoyment, premium feel, and known reliability make it a compelling choice.

How much does a Mazda CX-9 cost?

With new Mazda CX-9 sales no longer an option, cost answers come from the pre-owned market. CoPilot nationwide listings show that used Mazda CX 9s sell for $4,000 to $40,000, depending on age, condition, mileage, and equipment.

Is the Mazda CX-9 going to be discontinued?

Yes, Mazda dropped the CX-9 from its lineup after 2023. It’s replaced by the Mazda CX-90.

Is the Mazda CX-9 a luxury car?

While not carrying a dedicated premium brand, the CX-9 borders on near-luxury territory given its combination of refined driving dynamics, elegant design, hushed cabin, and upscale materials, rivaling some luxury makes.

Check out a used Mazda CX 9 for sale.