2018 Mazda CX-9 in Forest City, NC - $22,450

The 2017 Mazda CX-9 is a mid-size, three-row crossover SUV that caters to families with seating for seven. Mazda’s standout three-row crossover SUV remains the flagship of Mazda’s lineup, positioned to push the brand to new, aspirational heights. The latest, grandest expression of KODO—Soul of Motion design resides in the CX-9, representing the flagship of Mazda’s current-generation lineup. A proud front fascia that cascades into crisp lines that flow to the rear greets drivers and passengers, ready to take on the world.

Available in Sport, Touring, Grand Touring and Signature trim levels, the focus for CX-9 continues to be authenticity; an experience rather than simply another commodity conveyance. When developing the second-generation CX-9, engineers sought to instill driving dynamics befitting of a Mazda— agile handling, tight steering and a responsive, controllable powertrain. To do this, they found smart solutions to keep CX-9’s structure light, yet rigid.

Engineers developed a new turbocharged SKYACTIV-G 2.5 four-cylinder Dynamic Pressure Turbo engine that delivers instant throttle response, class-leading torque and best-in-class fuel economy. Torque is communicated to the pavement through a six-speed automatic transmission with Sport and manual-shift mode.

When coupled with a weight reduction of over approximately 198 lbs. versus first-generation, CX-9 boasts improvements in driver control, chassis dynamics and performance—all leading to a greater sense of confidence from behind the wheel.

Inside the passenger cabin, the CX-9 interior is beyond breathtaking, with available Auburn-colored Nappa leather seats, Japanese rosewood and aluminum trim exclusive to the Signature, top tier trim level. Even the door jambs are finished with a level of precision that lends an air of sophistication. Once seated, passengers notice a vertically stacked center console with details that wrap around from the dashboard to the rear seats, designed to envelop passengers in comfort and serenity.

A sweeping single piece of aluminum adorns the dashboard, emphasizing width, with a forward-angled dashboard. Satin and polished finishes on the aluminum plinth evoke Japanese craftsmanship and are inspired by Japan’s famous hand-made knives.

The CX-9 boasts an interior with the mettle to impress consumers who expect nothing less than spaciousness, functionality and premium content from every SUV on their shopping lists. The CX-9 has a roomy interior for seven adults to reap the rewards. Its organized and efficient interior layout also is replete with rich touch points.

For versatility points, the 60/40-split second row easily accommodates three passengers and offers approximately five inches of fore-and-aft travel in addition to a reclining backrest. In the 50/50-split third row, seating position and legroom are among the leaders in the mid-size SUV segment, both in numbers and real-world comfort. Access into the third row also is effortless with nearly 26 inches of ingress space between a folded second-row seat and the C-pillar.

Dimensions & specifications
Wheelbase: 115.3; overall length: 199.4; width: 77.5; height: 69.0
All vehicle measurements are in inches

Engine: 2.5L four-cylinder Dynamic Pressure Turbo – 250 hp at 5000 rpm and 310 lbs-ft of torque at 2000 rpm.
Transmission: six-speed automatic
EPA Fuel Economy: 22 city/28 highway (FWD); 20 city/26 highway (AWD)
Cargo capacity: 71.2 cubic feet
Towing capacity: 3,500 lbs.

Safety features
Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, dual head curtain side-impact airbags with roll-over protection, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, electronic brake force distribution, traction control, dynamic stability control, roll-stability control, trailer stability assist, hill launch assist, side-impact door beams, LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, automatic power speed sensing door locks, remote keyless entry, MAZDA CONNECT, rearview camera, and tire pressure monitoring system. Touring adds blind spot monitoring system, rear cross traffic alert, HomeLink, Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry and Start System, and Smart City Brake Support. Grand Touring adds distance recognition support system, high beam control, lane keep assist, Mazda Radar Cruise Control, rear backup sensor, LED fog lights, automatic LED headlights, rain-sensing windshield wipers, navigation system and Smart Brake Support.

Optional safety features includes remote control engine start.

Warranty
Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile
Powertrain: 5-year/60,000 mile
Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited
Roadside Assistance: 3-year/36,000 mile 24-hour

Pricing
The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2017 Mazda CX-9 SUV starts from $31,520 for the Sport FWD model upto $44,315 for the Signature. Destination charges add $940.