• 2013

• 2012 Mazda CX-9

• Used Mazda CX-9
• Repairs Mazda CX-9

Scorecard

Overall:	2012 Mazda CX-9 U.S. News Best Cars 8.5
Critics' Rating:	9.0
Performance:	8.4
Interior:	7.8
Safety:	8.3
Reliability:

How we calculate scores

Research analyzed for this review

Awards

• 2012 Best 3-Row Midsize SUV for the Money

Pros & Cons

• Extraordinarily sporty performance
• Sleek exterior
• Roomy cabin
• Well-equipped base model

• Ride may be too stiff for some
• Top-of-the-line models aren’t as loaded as competitors

Research Other Years

• 2013 Mazda CX-9
• 2011 Mazda CX-9
• 2010 Mazda CX-9
• 2009 Mazda CX-9
• 2008 Mazda CX-9
• 2007 Mazda CX-9

Reviewers love the way the Mazda CX-9 drives, saying it handles almost as well as sport-tuned luxury SUVs like the BMW X5. This comes at the expense of some capabilities because the CX-9 can’t tow as much as many of its midsize competitors. It doesn’t have quite as much power as V8-equipped rivals like the Dodge Durango, but reviewers say they don’t mind.

• "The engine is smooth, refined, and barely noticed while cruising and at idle.” -- Consumer Guide
• "The CX-9's only notable drawbacks are long rear doors that can be cumbersome in tight parking spots, and the ride stiffness that comes with the Grand Touring's 20-inch wheels.” -- Edmunds

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Acceleration and Power

Under the hood, the 2012 Mazda CX-9 boasts a 273-horsepower, 3.7-liter V6 engine, which is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Test drivers say that this combination supplies adequate get-up-and-go, though the transmission can be less responsive than some.

According to the EPA, two-wheel drive models get 17/24 mpg city/highway, while models equipped with optional all-wheel drive net 16/22 mpg. That’s about average for the class. The CX-9 can tow up to 3,500 pounds, which is on the low side for a crossover. The Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,000 pounds.

• "CX-9's V6 engine provides sufficient power in any situation. The transmission is generally alert, but it's sometimes slow to downshift for more passing punch.” -- Consumer Guide

Handling and Braking

Reviewers say the Mazda CX-9 is one of the sportiest vehicles in its class, though its athletically-tuned suspension means that its ride might be too harsh for those looking for a more comfort-tuned SUV. More than one test driver says that the optional 20-inch wheels aren’t worth the extra price, since they significantly decrease the CX-9’s ride comfort. One reviewer notes that the steering might feel too light for some, but the brakes get generally good reviews.

The CX-9 comes standard with front-wheel drive, though all-wheel drive is an option.

• "Like many large crossovers, the 2012 Mazda CX-9 provides admirable road trip transportation, offering a comfortable ride on long journeys. It separates itself from the pack by driving like a smaller, more agile vehicle thanks to its precise, communicative steering and buttoned-down composure in corners.” -- Edmunds
• “A tidy turning radius makes it easy to maneuver in tight spots, a surprise given this crossover's large overall size. Braking control is solid, though one test Grand Touring had a slightly mushy pedal feel.” -- Consumer Guide
• "What We Don't (Like): Too-light steering effort.” -- Cars.com