2009 Mazda CX-9 Features Review

November 4, 2008

FEATURES | 8 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

Most folks haven't been too keen on the touch-screen-operated [navigation] system
Car and Driver

Roughly one-quarter of shoppers have snatched up a Sport—and for good reason
Motor Trend

the agility of a car with the seating and cargo options of an SUV
Edmunds

With three trims to choose from—Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring—the 2009 Mazda CX-9 comes well equipped in any trim.

Besides its standard V-6, six-speed manu-matic, and traction control, a full complement of safety features, and power everything, the 2009 Mazda CX-9’s standard equipment includes "three-zone automatic climate with rear seat controls, tilt/telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player, digital-media player connection, wireless cell phone link, theft-deterrent system, rear privacy glass, rear spoiler and 18-inch alloy wheels," according to ConsumerGuide. For 2009, CX-9s receive a trip computer standard on all models; Bluetooth capability for Sport trims; Sirius Satellite Radio is added to the Moonroof, Bose Audio Package, and Rear Seat Entertainment System Package; auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink is added to the Grand Touring trim; and trailer tow preparation is now standard on AWD models.

Options include a third-row entertainment system with DVD playback on a 9-inch seat-mounted LCD screen, a sunroof, and a moonroof. Motor Trend says the rear-seat entertainment system "that features a nine-inch LCD and 5.1 surround sound with 11 speakers" is "not available with a moonroof." However, Car and Driver finds "the rear-seat DVD system is a delight and is as intuitive as one might hope: Pop in the disc, hit the power button on the wireless headphones, and enjoy." Considering the moonroof eats into the CX-9's limited headroom, opting for the DVD system is a no-brainer.

Other options include all-wheel drive, satellite radio, a navigation system, a power tailgate, and a Bose audio system. Car and Driver tested a fully loaded model: "With a final sticker price of $41,855, that agreeable bottom line turned a bit pricey."

Conclusion

While the base Sport trim is well equipped, to fully experience the luxurious features offered in the 2009 Mazda CX-9, be prepared to spend about $40 large.

FEATURES | 8 out of 10Expert Quotes:Most folks haven't been too keen on the touch-screen-operated [navigation] systemCar and DriverRoughly one-quarter of shoppers have snatched up a Sport—and for good reasonMotor Trendthe agility of a car with the seating and cargo options of an SUVEdmunds With three trims to choose from—Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring—the 2009 Mazda CX-9 comes well equipped in any trim. Besides its standard V-6, six-speed manu-matic, and traction control, a full complement of safety features, and power everything, the 2009 Mazda CX-9’s standard equipment includes "three-zone automatic climate with rear seat controls, tilt/telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player, digital-media player connection, wireless cell phone link, theft-deterrent system, rear privacy glass, rear spoiler and 18-inch alloy wheels," according to ConsumerGuide. For 2009, CX-9s receive a trip computer standard on all models; Bluetooth capability for Sport trims; Sirius Satellite Radio is added to the Moonroof, Bose Audio Package, and Rear Seat Entertainment System Package; auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink is added to the Grand Touring trim; and trailer tow preparation is now standard on AWD models. Options include a third-row entertainment system with DVD playback on a 9-inch seat-mounted LCD screen, a sunroof, and a moonroof. Motor Trend says the rear-seat entertainment system "that features a nine-inch LCD and 5.1 surround sound with 11 speakers" is "not available with a moonroof." However, Car and Driver finds "the rear-seat DVD system is a delight and is as intuitive as one might hope: Pop in the disc, hit the power button on the wireless headphones, and enjoy." Considering the moonroof eats into the CX-9's limited headroom, opting for the DVD system is a no-brainer. Other options include all-wheel drive, satellite radio, a navigation system, a power tailgate, and a Bose audio system. Car and Driver tested a fully loaded model: "With a final sticker price of $41,855, that agreeable bottom line turned a bit pricey." ConclusionWhile the base Sport trim is well equipped, to fully experience the luxurious features offered in the 2009 Mazda CX-9, be prepared to spend about $40 large.  2009 MAZDA CX-9 STYLING | [9 out of 10] ConsumerGuide: "a stylish, refined entry [in its class]" Car and Driver: "Significantly larger than a Ford Explorer " Cars.com: "manages to avoid the chunkiness of many SUVs , in part because of its angular nose and carlike grille" The 2009 ...

Read More of this Review:

  1. styling
  2. performance
  3. quality
  4. safety
  5. features

Other Choices:

Beyond the 2009 Mazda CX-9, the range of available crossovers staggers the mind. If size matters most to you, then consider any of the large crossovers from General Motors (the Chevrolet Traverse, or the closely related Buick Enclave, Saturn Outlook, or GMC Acadia)—they're the biggest. But don’t do so before driving the Mazda CX-9, which may reveal that size doesn't matter so much. All three GM vehicles provide top safety and comfortable interiors but aren’t as agile or nimble on the road as the CX-9. The Subaru Tribeca is closest to the CX-9 in driving manner, as it also handles better than most three-row SUVs, though the Subaru’s odd-duck styling elements might turn you off; on the other hand, the Honda Pilot appeals as a more basic, boxy ute even though it performs to similar standards. Style and price range remain big variables, so take the time to see and drive the Mazda in person. Only then decide whether the CX-9's low $30,000 price is spot-on for you. But it is one of the prettiest, and its adroit steering and handling make it a family hauler for those who like to drive. After a test drive, you may decide the 2009 Mazda CX-9 is really a less expensive alternative to an Acura MDX or BMW X5.

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See the Mazda CX-9 in Other Years:

2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007

Comments (4 total)

  1. By osman #1, Posted: 7/25/2009

    why mazda cx9 speed only 160 kph in saudiarabia.

  2. By annmaire #2, Posted: 7/31/2009

    nice car with space seating

  3. By emil #3, Posted: 7/31/2009

    im thinking about getting this SUV!! I also herd the mazda 3 is nice.

  4. By Toli #4, Posted: 9/29/2009

    @Emil..I do have Mazda3 2010 thru cash for clunker is very nice in/out as well as a powerful 2.5liter engine… highly recommended. I am in process to get the 2009 Mazda CX9 GT FWD MSRP $39,400 for 30K plus Tax & Fee.

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