2013 Mazda CX-9 Reviews and Ratings

Sporting a refreshed front fascia that includes a new grille, new headlights, and re-styled front vents, the 2013 Mazda CX-9 AWD Grand Touring is a full-size SUV that shares a platform with the Ford Edge. The largest vehicle offered by Mazda, the CX-9 feels heavy and safe but drives and maneuvers like a smaller sedan.

As previously mentioned the CX-9 has been re-styled for the current model year and although the new exterior is a vast improvement, some elements (front grille) can still look a bit outdated when compared to other vehicles in its class. The fit and finish of the vehicle is well orchestrated but the use of plastic trim pieces for ground effects can give the car a slightly “cheap” look. Exterior colors are limited to Crystal White Pearl Mica, Meteor Gray Mica, Brilliant Black Clearcoat, Dolphin Gray Mica, Zeal Red Mica, and Liquid Silver Metallic.

Acceleration is quick and smooth due to a 3.7-liter V6 engine that produces 273 hp, for a 0-60 time of 7.3 seconds. Driving modes consist of a normal and sport “triptronic” shifting. A 6-speed automatic transmission and responsive AWD enable fuel consumption to fall within an EPA estimated range of 16 mpg city to 22 mpg highway. Performance is exceptional with smooth cornering, responsive braking, and continuous power that propels the CX-9 up hills and onto the freeway without any issue.

Interior seating is basic but nice, with black, leather upholstery and suede accents. Seven passenger seating is made a tad impractical due to a difficult to access/uncomfortable third row. The third row seating would work nicely for older kids, but definitely not practical for adult seating. There is, however, ample space for the driver and passenger, as well as second row passengers. Comfort is also accentuated by a strong A/C unit, dual-zone climate control, leather materials, sound ergonomics, and switches that look and feel formidable. Small drawbacks include awkwardly placed steering wheel mounted controls, some plastic components than you might not expect in a vehicle with this price tag, and a slightly small trunk size that can be only be expanded by laying down the third row of seats.

Features are plentiful, including a 10-speaker premium Bose audio system with Sirius radio and Pandora, backup camera (drawback: view is not as wide as the vehicle, slightly narrowed view makes it a little difficult to use), backup sensors with blind spot monitoring, hands-free phone capabilities, optional rear seat TV and DVD entertainment package, adjustable heated front seats, keyless entry, optional keyless start, a full-size spare tire, and remote trunk open.

A versatile crossover, the CX-9 can easily be used as a daily driver because it’s not limited by its size. Cornering is better than other vehicles in the full-size crossover class (with a minimal amount of body roll), blind spot monitoring assists driver visibility, and parking is a breeze due to a 18.7 foot curb to curb turning radius. The Cx-9 is a solid vehicle, with a better than average ride quality, that is sure to please any driver.