2011 Mazda CX-9 vs. Its Competition

Martin Padgett Editorial Director

If roominess trumps everything else, you’ll probably want to go straight to the full-size crossovers from General Motors (the Chevrolet Traverse, the closely related Buick Enclave, or the GMC Acadia).

These GM models are more spacious, but they don’t drive with the same verve as the CX-9.

Subaru’s Tribeca is probably the closest in overall driving feel—it handles very well for a tall crossover—but its odd styling and cramped third row are going to be a turnoff to some shoppers.

Then there’s the Honda Pilot, which breaks from the mold with outrageous chunky styling that embraces boxiness and trucklike looks, though it’s really a road-oriented crossover.

The Pilot performs much like the other vehicles in this group; if you can get past the styling, it’s well worth considering.

Toyota remains the only one to offer a four-cylinder engine in this class; in the roomy Highlander, the 2.7-liter four has just enough gusto and it’s much better on fuel.