Mazda CX-9 | A Family Fun SUV

Thanks to Mazda, we were able to drive this beauty for the week. It was my first time behind the wheel of a Mazda and I must say, I was pleasantly surprised. First impressions are everything and Mazda nailed it with it’s bold appearance and luxury interior.

We used the CX-9 Signature edition running around town with the family, to work and even for a quick day date! It never disappointed and was always a head turner. Here are some things we loved:

Interior

Design and Style

Elegance and attention to detail was not overlooked.  The auburn Nappa leather in our Signature edition was enhanced by rosewood trim and aluminum accents. It was truly first class all the way. I remember watching the commercial for the new CX-9 and commenting on the stunning interior, never knowing I’d get to experience it so quickly.

Driver Focused

While sophistication is felt throughout the interior, there is a special focus to the most important seat—the driver’s. Mazda positioned the shifter and console slightly higher than in the previous-generation CX-9, allowing for a greater sense of connection and control when behind the wheel. I was quickly able to navigate the radio, navigation and phone with ease thanks to the console toggle (car mouse). The Active Driving Display projects on the driver side windshield giving you a quick glance of your speed, drive lines and active vehicle features. At first I thought it would be much more distracting, but it was pleasantly lit and placed for a perfect reference to minimize taking my eyes off the road.

Family Friendly

The third row is clutch for any family. Enough space to roll in a double stroller and anything else as needed without having to disturb the kiddos car seats. Hauling a larger crew? Alter the seats in seconds to accommodate up to 7 passengers.

 

Key Features and Safety

Mazda Radar Cruise Control

This was by far one of the coolest features in the vehicle. I discovered it unexpectedly on my way to work as a vehicle pulled in front of me abruptly. The cruise was set like normal, but the car automatically adjusted the speed to allow for the proper following distance with the car that cut in front of me. If you desire to have more or less space with the next vehicle, just toggle to your preference.

Lane-Keep Assist

Another one that caught me by surprise. As I looked down to grab my morning coffee, I unintentionally departed from my lane. The wheel quickly vibrated and performed a minor steering correction to help guide me back to the center of the lane! Additionally, warning lights flash on the window display as you draw close to either side of the road.

Predictive I-Activ AWD

I am an absolute fan when it comes to AWD in vehicles. In fact, I shy away from anything that isn’t these days. I feel like you have more control over the car, regardless of the conditions. The Mazda’s i-ACTIV AWD really gives you the benefits of a traditional AWD, but never letting it really go to waste. By monitoring everything from outside temperature to throttle input and braking patterns, the i-ACTIV AWD predicts when all-wheel drive is needed. It then preemptively optimizes torque distribution to help curb any traction loss. Say whaaaaat!?

 

Performance

Unlike many three-row crossovers, the CX-9 is only available with a four-cylinder engine. I must say, I’m not a huge fan of a four-cylinder, but I think the 2.5-liter turbocharged motor gave it everything that was needed. With less weight in the front than a V6, the four-cylinder makes for a nice MPG and extra savings at the pump.

 

Exterior

 

The exterior features a bold, aggressive, yet sporty body style. It showcases a custom paint machine gray metallic, made of of 5 different layers to give you the most luminous and liquid like color.

For more information on the Mazda CX-9 and to find a local dealer near you click below