We knew the CX-9 was unique for its powerful engine, nimble handling and stylish good looks -- and leading automotive journalists seem to agree. Read some of the CX-9 accolades below and find out what people are saying about this seven-passenger Crossover SUV.
Highest Projected Resale Value in the Full-Size Utility Segment
CX-9 won the ALG 2011 Residual Value Award for Best Full-Size Utility signifying it will retain a higher percentage of its original price than Honda Pilot, Toyota Sequoia, Chevrolet Traverse, Ford Flex, GMC Acadia and Nissan Armada after a three-year period.
– ALG
2008 All-Star Award Still Shines
“The CX-9's All-Star award from 2008 still shines, as this remains one of the best-handling big crossovers on the market.”
– Automobilemag.com 1/10
Surprisingly Supple Ride
"The CX-9 has communicative steering, really good body control for an SUV, and actually seems to like corners, which isn't always the case with this type of vehicle. The ride quality is surprisingly supple in view of this athleticism."
— CarandDriver.com 4/10
More Fun Than You'd Expect
"In a crowded class, the CX-9 distinguishes itself with a high-quality interior and more driving fun than you'd expect from a large, seven-seat crossover."
— Cars.com 5/10
"Sports Car of Its Class"
"This svelte seven-seater is the sports car of its class, with nimble handling and a spirited engine."
– Parents Magazine 6/09
"Most Enjoyable Driving Experience in its Class"
"For a biggish SUV, the CX-9 offers the most enjoyable driving experience in its class. Mazda seems to take the view that just because a vehicle has to haul humans and cargo around, it doesn’t have to be a fun-free zone."
— CarandDriver.com 4/10
Drives Like a Vehicle Half its Size
"This Mazda should be required driving for those who say that full-size SUVs are, by definition, a snooze to pilot — it whips through corners and hustles down straightaways like a vehicle half its size."
– Edmunds.com, 2010 CX-9 Road Test Review
"Made Easy Work of Winding Roads"
"The CX-9 made easy work of winding roads, without sacrificing ride comfort. Its chassis tuning helped the Mazda charm even those drivers far outside its target market."
– AUTOMOBILE Magazine
2010 Cars.com Editor's Choice for Large Families
"The CX-9's sleek styling and sporty handling is in keeping with Mazda hallmarks, but this crossover is a dutiful family-mover, too."
– Cars.com
"A CROSSOVER THAT'S JUST ABOUT PERFECT"
"As good a blend of tight precision and comfortable compliance as exists in the SUV world, mainstream or luxury."
– USA Today 2/07
No Better Choice
"For those who find themselves being dragged kicking and screaming out of their sporty sedan toward a family hauler, there's quite simply no better choice than the 2009 Mazda CX-9."
– Edmunds.com, 2009 CX-9 Review
"A Lot of Fun to Drive"
"The CX-9 superbly balances roominess and utility with rewarding performance and handling. It's a lot of fun to drive, and the ride is compliant without being overly cushy."
– Motor Trend (Long-term test, 20K miles) 6/08
"THREE ROWS: THAT'S ZOOM-ZOOM-ZOOM"
"This could be the best mid sized crossover SUV for the sporty driver needing room for seven passengers."
— Motor Trend, 2007 CX-9 Review
"A Classy Space"
"The refined interior finishes—chrome accents and piano black trim pieces—enhance what is already a classy space."
— CarandDriver.com 4/10