The 2009 Mazda CX9 is simply one of the best SUV choices around, especially for those who need the added space, but can't quite give up the drive of their sporty sedans. With its sporty handling and performance, the CX9 changes all that, plus adds outstanding crash test scores, a stylish and spacious interior, lots of cargo room, easy third-row access and solid build quality.
For the 2009 model year, while keeping the CX9 largely unchanged, Mazda has continued to add useful new features. All models get a standard trip computer and all AWD (all-wheel-drive) models get a standard trailer tow prep package. The Sport model also gets standard Bluetooth phone capability and the Grand Touring gets a standard garage door opener and auto-dimming rearview mirror. In addition, the upgraded audio and rear-seat entertainment packages now include satellite radio.
The 2009 Mazda CX-9 is a large, three row, seven-passenger crossover SUV offered in three trims: Sport, Touring and Grand Touring.
Standard Features And Options:
Standard features on the Sport model include full power accessories, air conditioning, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel with audio and cruise controls, a trip computer, Bluetooth phone connectivity, 18 inch alloy wheels, a CD player, and an auxiliary audio jack.
The mid-level Touring model adds two-tone leather upholstery, heated front seats and heated mirrors.
The upscale Grand Touring model adds rain-sensing wipers, keyless ignition, keyless entry, memory driver seat presets, xenon headlights, interior wood accents, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, special blue cabin lighting, and 20 inch wheels.
Depending on the model, available options include a surround-sound Bose audio system with a 6-disc CD changer, power rear liftgate, remote engine start, navigation, rearview camera, sunroof, satellite radio, video game docking station, and a rear-seat entertainment system.
Engines, Powertrain And Gas Mileage:
Powering the 2009 Mazda CX9 is a 3.7 liter V6 engine that produces 273 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. It's mated with a standard six-speed automatic transmission and all models are available with either front or all-wheel drive.
A properly equipped CX9 has a tow capacity of up to 3,500 pounds, while a front-wheel-drive CX9 can go from a standstill to 60 mph in a very respectable 7.4 seconds (the AWD adds about a second to this time).
The EPA-rated gas mileage for a 2009 front-drive CX9 is 16 mpg city and 22 mpg on the highway. Gas mileage for an all-wheel-drive is 15 mpg city and 21 mpg highway.
Safety:
Standard safety features on all '09 CX9 models include antilock disc brakes with brake assist, stability control, rollover sensor, front side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. In addition, a blind-spot warning system is standard on the Grand Touring.
In government crash tests, the CX9 received excellent scores, earning a perfect five stars on all front and side impact tests for both driver and passengers.
Interior:
The interior of the CX9 is well designed with user-friendly features. It's also attractive and sporty, made even more so with the available two-tone leather, red and blue instrument lighting, and choice of accents and trims.
In addition, the two passenger third-row is one of the most spacious and comfortable available, with easy access due to large rear-door openings as well as a fold-and-slide second row. There's 17 cubic feet of cargo space when the third row is in place, 101 cubic feet when the second and third rows are folded down.
Drive:
As you would expect in most large crossovers, the 2009 Mazda CX9 is engineered to capably and comfortably handle long trips ... mission accomplished. But with a sport-tuned suspension and low-profile tires, the CX9 really excels on the twisty back roads as well. While perhaps no vehicle of this size can ever really be called truly athletic or nimble, the CX9 most definitely stands out as being surprisingly enjoyable to drive.
Update: Weak Economy Leads To Lower CX-9 Prices:
Vehicle sales have been weak for over a year now due to the poor economy, including Mazda's. There was a small bounce during the "Cash For Clunkers" program, but the market quickly returned to its overall slow sales environment.
And once again, the combination of fierce competition and a soft market has created an ideal opportunity for nailing down great deals.
How To Buy A New CX-9 At The Lowest Price: Before listing MSRP and invoice prices for the 2009 Mazda CX-9, here's the instructions for how to get the best price, especially given the current slow car market.