Turning heads with a new design inside and out, the 2016 Mazda CX-9 is more than just an attractive option on the outside since the exterior has been tweaked too. Redesigned for 2016, the CX-9 promises good fuel economy, a quiet ride and a variety of trim levels to meet anyone’s needs.
Mazda gave us the CX-9 almost a decade ago and it has been a long 10 years. During that time the SUV market has drastically changed and customer have come to appreciate what this type of vehicle can offer. To keep up is paramount so Mazda has jumped back into the game with the new CX-9 design.
Competition in this market include the three-row options like the Ford Explorer, Toyota Highlander and the Honda Pilot all compared equally in this mid-size crossover range from price to features and driving experience.
With the 2016 Mazda CX-9, you can fit seven passengers and the trims are Sport, Touring, Grand Touring and Signature.
On the Sport trim, it is 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, cruise control, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, cloths seats and a 60/40-split with the second-row seats and with the third row it is 50/50-split folding seats. There is a rearview camera and for technology features there is a Bluetooth phone, six speakers, a USB input and the Mazda Connect infotainment system with a seven-inch display.
For the Touring trim, extra features above and beyond the sport are heated mirrors, power liftgate, keyless ignition and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. There is also the universal garage door opener and leather seats that are heated in the front. Safety features include a blind-spot monitor and technology comes with an eight-inch screen display and two USB ports in the second row.
For the Grand Touring trim, the wheels are 20 inches and there are adaptive headlights, LED fog lights, automatic wipers, sunroof and driver seat memory functions. A lane-keep assist is included for safety as is a frontal collision warning and head-up display. There are retractable sunshades for the middle row and a navigation system as well as 12 speakers and satellite radio.
At the top of the CX-9 trim, the Signature will continue to add goodies like the LED accent lighting, leather upholstery and a stylish rosewood trim inside. This trim only comes in all-wheel drive as well.
Behind the wheel, you will feel the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The Mazda folks also point out that the CX-9 will increase the horsepower to 250 when you use premium fuel on the front or all-wheel drive with six speed automatic transmission.
The safety features for the 2016 Mazda CX-9 are antilock brakes, stability and traction control, front-seat side and full-length side curtain airbags and the rearview camera. On the Touring trims, you get a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alerts and the Grand Touring or Signature trim levels will add not only a lane-keep assist system, but rear parking sensors and frontal collision mitigation.
You can count on the fact that with the CX-9 redesign, the Mazda folks have also upgraded the interior too. The control buttons and knobs are easily accessible the Mazda Connect infotainment system works even for those without a PhD meaning the system is well thought out and user friendly. With the higher trim level you also have the benefits of upgrade leather and the wood for the upholstery.
While there is plenty of room in the front seat for the driver and passenger and even in the second row, the third row is a bit cramped so save this space for children. The second row also offers slide and recline features.
For the third row, you could consider it a good extra cargo space and with the seats in the third row folded down you get 38.2 cubic feet versus 14.4 cargo space for hauling. When both the second and third row seats are folded down, you will find 71-cubic feet for proper hauling.
As for the driving experience, here is where the Mazda CX-9 shines offering a comfortable and quiet ride. Bumps are hardly felt and handling is easy with the driver feeling in control on the highway or taking a sharp turn. Final answer; even if you haven’t taken the Mazda CX-9 for a spin in the past, SUV shoppers consider this one and you might find a new brand loyalty.
Should You Need to Know: When equipped properly, the 2016 Mazda CX-9 can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
Miles Per Gallon: On the 2016 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring AWD the fuel economy came in at 21 miles per gallon in the city and 27 miles per gallon on the highway.
Cost: The 2016 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring AWD had a price tag of $41,970.
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