The Mazda CX-9 Sport, Touring and Grand Touring all share a 3.7L V6 engine that makes 273 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque and is mated to a 6-speed sport automatic transmission with manual shift mode. Each trim can be had with either front-wheel drive or Mazda's Active Torque-Split all-wheel drivetrain.
The Mazda CX-9 comes with a long list of standard safety equipment that includes anti-lock brakes, brake assist, tire pressure monitoring, stability control, traction control and roll stability control. The front air bag system has sensors for seat belt use, passenger weight and seat position to allow the right amount of deployment. The steering wheel column collapses in the event of a crash and the brake pedal assembly breaks away to minimize the chance of injury.
A number of standard luxury and convenience features include power mirrors, a roof spoiler, 18-inch alloy wheels, 3-zone climate control, cargo area under-floor storage, fold-down second and third rows of seating and leather trim. A satellite radio-compatible 6-speaker system is standard and includes an input jack, Bluetooth, Pandora Internet radio capability, a 5.8-inch touchscreen display and steering wheel-mounted controls. The base Sport offers a power-adjustable driver seat and heated outside mirrors, as well as power windows and locks.
The Touring model adds automatic headlamps, heated leather front seats, Cross Traffic Alert and a rear back up camera. An available Technology Package includes a power moonroof and Bose audio system, as well as SIRIUS satellite radio.
The Grand Touring includes 20-inch wheels, HID headlamps, fog lamps, rain-sensing wipers, advanced keyless entry and a blind-spot warning system. If that weren't enough, a rear-seat entertainment system with Bose audio is optional, as are a navigation system and a power liftgate.
Plenty Of Room For Seven Passengers
Sporty On-road Ride
Impressive Array Of Safety Systems
Hi-tech Availability
For 2014, the Mazda CX-9 is mostly unchanged from last year. A new tech feature, rear cross-traffic alert becomes standard on the Touring and better models.
Despite having room for seven and a slew of seating configurations, this large SUV has a sporty driving feel and a distinctive design. The standard safety features and available technology offer a great compromise between minivan and sleek SUV.
