The 2009 Mazda CX-9 is a crossover SUV that shares considerable DNA with the Ford Edge. The CX-9 competes with vehicles such as the Chevrolet Traverse, the Dodge Journey and the Toyota Venza. The CX-9 comes in three trim levels for your enjoyment, the base Sport, a Touring trim and the Grand Touring trim. However, all three trim levels share the same engine and transmission. All-wheel drive or front-wheel drive are available on all trim levels.
The 2009 Mazda CX-9 makes use of a 3.7-liter V6 that produces 273 hp, mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle does have limited towing capacity, though it is relegated to a paltry 3500 lbs. However, the SUV does offer several safety enhancements for driver and passengers, including ABS, an antiskid system and numerous airbags throughout the cabin.
The wireless cell phone link and triple zone climate control module are standard on all trim levels, while the Grand Touring offers a blind spot alert and comes with 20-inch wheels, (other trims have 18-inch wheels). The Touring and Grand Touring can both be configured with a navigation system, as well as a sunroof and DVD system.
2009 Mazda CX-9 Performance
The V6 engine imbues the CX-9 with sufficient power for almost any application. Drivers will find the vehicle is fast from a stop, and also provides sufficient power for passing during highway driving. The automatic transmission is smooth, but can take considerable throttle input to induce a downshift for passing on the highway.
One of the areas in which the SUV suffers in fuel economy. The vehicle averages 18 mpg, though it can be considerably lower with only in-town driving. The steering offers a nice feel and excellent responsiveness, while the CX-9 does feature marked body lean during moderate to sharp turns. The turning radius is very small, making it a nimble option for urban areas. Braking is more than adequate, though the pedal does feel somewhat soft to new drivers.
The ride offered is quite smooth, though firm. This is a nice touch, but the vehicle does react to even small bumps in the road. The larger 20-inch tires increase the amount of tire and road noise experienced, though the 18-inch tires are not silent, by any means. However, the larger tires do provide a more composed stance on the road and seem to dampen some of the harsh suspension movements.
2009 Mazda CX-9 Interior
While the interior of the SUV is not luxurious, it is more refined than many options in its class. The richly textured plastics, padded surfaces and quality fabrics used throughout give it a nice interior that speaks of comfort.
The controls are nicely laid out and can be easily read by most drivers. Most controls are easily accessed from the driver's position, while the navigation system does not subsume the HVAC controls. However, many of the audio controls are integrated into the navigation system, which can complicate operation.
The front seats offer more than ample legroom for the tallest drivers and the headroom is also sufficient. The rear view from the front is hindered by rear seats and rear roof pillars. The second row seats are sufficient for adult occupants and offer plenty of leg and headroom, while the third row seats are only comfortable for adults when the second row is moved all the way forward.
The cargo area of the CX-9 is spacious and when the third row seats are folded, it is incredibly spacious. The second row seats also fold, though they do not fold flat to the floor, which can make it difficult to load very bulky items. The interior of the SUV does offer numerous storage areas, as well as map holders on each door of the vehicle.
2009 Mazda CX-9 Safety Features
The 2009 Mazda CX-9 features quite a few safety enhancements. Standard equipment includes dual front airbags, an antiskid system, rollover sensors, a tire pressure monitor, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, side curtain airbags and front side airbags. Additional safety equipment includes an antitheft system, a blind spot alert system and an optional rearview camera.
Summary
The 2009 Mazda CX-9 is an excellent crossover SUV for those who need plenty of cargo room and performance. While the vehicle offers little in the way of towing capacity, it more than makes up for it in other areas. This is an excellent option for those seeking an affordable SUV that has power to spare.