Mazda CX-9
Overall Score - 8.2 (Very Good)
The CX-9 delivers a cavernous interior with seating for seven, a long list of safety equipment, and a smooth on-pavement ride, but can't match the car-like performance or value of others in its class.
Auto reviewers see the 2007 Mazda CX-9 as an attractive minivan alternative that offers spacious seating for seven and a fun ride. A full-size crossover SUV, the CX-9 is all new for 2007 and replaces the Mazda MPV minivan. "Mazda's showing some chutzpah in calling the CX-9 the Zoom-Zoom with Extra Room, but is it a terrific new crossover? Yes-yes," praises Motor Trend. AutoWeek calls the Grand Touring model "a superb crossover and one of the most fun-to-drive examples in its class. The quiet and comfortable cabin is a nice place to be, and its exterior styling is pleasing to the eye." Edmunds concludes "if you need the practicality of three rows but you just can't bring yourself to drive a minivan or a truck-based sport-utility, then the 2007 Mazda CX-9 could be the perfect car for you." The CX-9 is so well-liked that it made Edmunds' Most Wanted list for being the "Most Wanted SUV under $35,000."
Though reviewers feel the CX-9 is a solid SUV, they don't feel as confident about the price. Of the ultra-luxury Grand Touring model, AutoWeek further comments "I drove the Mazda CX-9 without first looking at the sticker, and while I really liked the car, its $40,000 price has tainted my feelings a bit. I was guessing low to mid-$30,000s." Similarly, the Detroit Free Press says "The CX-9 checks in at the high end of their price range, costing more than other models with more features, more room and better ride and handling."
However, a minority feels the CX-9 is a good buy. Road and Track says "The materials and craftsmanship are very good for this price class." Motor Trend praises "Visually, it's akin to Audi's Q7 and Mercedes-Benz's GL450 in its swoopy presence and brightwork detailing, though in terms of price, it's targeted squarely at Wal-Marters like Honda's Pilot and Toyota Highlander." IntelliChoice gives the 2007 CX-9 an "average" value rating for its predicted five-year total cost of ownership, compared to vehicles in its class.
The 2007 Mazda CX-9 is available in three trims: the base Sport, the Touring and the Grand Touring. All trims are available with standard front-wheel drive (FWD) or optional all-wheel drive (AWD).
CX-9 Performance - 8.0 (Very Good)
In test drives, the 2007 Mazda CX-9 shows a spirited driving experience and adequate power, even if the ride is a little stiff. "The all-new CX-9 really does carry on the 'zoom-zoom' nature of Mazda's product offerings with pleasant steering, chassis and brake feel that work in harmony with one another," says Road and Track. continue
CX-9 Exterior - 8.7 (Very Good)
Reviewers are very pleased with the 2007 Mazda CX-9's exterior styling, which has a car-like look that makes it appear smaller than it is. The Washington Post says "Some people thought it was a slick minivan, while others saw it as a slick SUV. But nearly everyone who had anything to say about its appearance gave the CX-9 high marks for styling." continue
CX-9 Interior - 7.7 (Good)
The CX-9's seven-seat interior is praised for its cavernous passenger and cargo space. "A recent trip through the back roads near Chelsea showcased Mazda's evolution from zoom-zoom to more room-room," says the Detroit News. continue
CX-9 Safety - NA
The 2007 Mazda CX-9 does extremely well in federal government crash tests. Reviewers note safety features are abundant. New Car Test Drive says "Mazda gets credit equipping even the least-expensive model with important safety equipment." continue
CX-9 Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)
The 2007 Mazda CX-9 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The CX-9 comes with Mazda's three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. continue