2021 Mazda CX-9 Review
Overview
If the idea of buying a crossover is an affront to your driving-enthusiast sensibilities, I' am happy to report that the 2021 Mazda CX-9 delivers plenty of the brand's hallmark driving verve. Its handling is far sharper than any of its rivals' and it's powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder that will provide enough pep for most drivers. The Mazda's cabin earns just as much as its driving dynamics, as it offers a near-luxury atmosphere and competitive list of standard and optional features. A host of driver-assistance features are standard, too. Rivals such as the also-excellent Kia Telluride and its corporate cousin, the Hyundai Palisade, offer more passenger and cargo space, but the CX-9 remains one of my favorite SUVs to recommend to those who value athletic handling and driver engagement as much as I do.
What's New for 2021?
The CX-9's infotainment receives an overhaul for 2021 and now comes with a 10.3-inch display and the updated interface that debuted on the Mazda 3 sedan and hatchback. A wireless smartphone charging pad is now standard on Touring, Grand Touring, and Signature models. A new Carbon Edition package is available on the Grand Touring, which adds black exterior trim, a blacked-out grille, black 20-inch wheels, and red leather seats. Grand Touring and Signature models receive new paddle shifters and an improved exterior camera system; the top-level Signature benefits from a host of new standard equipment, including rear automated emergency braking, a driver-attention monitoring system, updated grille and wheel designs, and new quilted leather upholstery.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Of the CX-9's four trim levels, the Touring model represents the best value. It offers plenty of niceties, including a power-operated rear lift-gate, leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and keyless entry with push-button start. To get the CX-9's new second-row captain's chairs—a feature many three-row SUV buyers want—opt for the Touring Premium package, which also adds two additional USB ports in the third row, a Bose audio system, SiriusXM satellite radio, fog lamps, front and rear parking sensors, and second-row window sunshades.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
In a segment where V-6 power is common, Mazda took a risk by offering a turbocharged four-cylinder engine as the CX-9's sole power-train in the hope of a gain in fuel-economy. It does eke out an advantage over some competitors, but it's slight. The engine sounds gutsy and manages a class-competitive result the acceleration test, where it scoots the vehicle from zero to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds. The 2021 CX-9 is clearly the driving enthusiast's family hauler; surprisingly light on its feet, it often feels as if you're driving a smaller SUV. The suspension is firm, but it's still supple enough riding over rough stretches of road. The steering, while not as communicative as other Mazdas, still imparts vigor that's missing from other crossovers. The firm suspension and accurate steering culminate in superior cornering control.
Fuel Economy
Apart from its solid acceleration performance, the CX-9 is, according to the EPA, more fuel efficient than many of its rivals. While 2021 figures have not been released at the time of writing this post, the 2020 model earned EPA estimates of 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive; all-wheel drive drops both of those figures by 2 mpg.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The CX-9's cabin wows with upscale materials and detailed styling, but compared with other SUVs in the segment, it's short on passenger and cargo space. Open the door and the CX-9's interior welcomes passengers with an upscale cabin that wouldn't look out of place in an Audi. Mazda has tastefully arranged soft-touch plastic with handsome graining, brushed aluminum, and, in our Signature-trim test car, genuine rosewood. The CX-9's smaller measurements mean real-world limitations. The CX-9's second and third rows of seats fold easily for quick configuration changes, though, and the resultant load floor is flat, making it easy to load bulky items.
Infotainment and Connectivity
All CX-9s come with Mazda's user-friendly infotainment system and a 10.3-inch display. The software is easy to navigate and the graphics are crisp, plus the Mazda Connected Services suite provides remote access to vehicle status, telematics, and key operations such as remote start and remote locking. Bluetooth phone and streaming audio, HD radio, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto are all standard features. A wireless smartphone charging pad is new for the 2021 model year but isn't offered on the base Sport model.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
A Top Safety Pick+ honor from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) is difficult to earn, but the Mazda scored well in its crash tests. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration also gave the CX-9 a five-star result. Key safety features include:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
- Standard adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Mazda offers an adequate protection plan for buyers of new CX-9s. What it doesn't offer is something that both the GMC Acadia and the Toyota Highlander do: Complimentary scheduled maintenance.
- Limited warranty covers 3 years or 36,000 miles
- Power-train warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
Images may not be accurate.
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