Simply put, the Mazda CX-9 is the most fun-to-drive SUV in its class. As with other Mazdas, the CX-9 isn't the segment's most powerful, but its taut handling and turbocharged engine imbue this crossover SUV with athletic flair. -KBB
2017 CX-9 Engine and Transmission
All 2017 CX-9 trims come with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that's mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The engine produces 227 horsepower on regular gas or 250 hp on the premium. The engine makes 310 lb-ft of torque, which is good for instant acceleration. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional.
Mazda's turbocharged engine has enough power to satisfy most drivers. However, with loaded passengers and cargo, the engine can feel a little overwhelmed. The CX-9 moves quickly as you keep your right foot planted. The smart-shifting transmission delivers smooth shifts that are quick when they need to be.
Models
|
2017 Mazda CX-9
|
2017 Honda Pilot
|
2017 Hyundai Santa Fe
|
2017 Dodge Durango
|
MSRP
|
$31,520
|
$30,595
|
$30,800
|
$29,995
|
Engine
|
2.5L I4
|
3.5-liter V-6 engine
|
3.3-liter V-6 engine
|
3.6-liter V-6 engine
|
Transmission
|
6-speed automatic
|
6-Speed Automatic Transmission
|
6-Speed Automatic Transmission
|
8- Speed Automatic Transmission
|
Horsepower
|
227 hp
|
280 hp
|
290 hp
|
293 hp
|
Torque
|
310 lb-ft
|
262 lb.-ft.
|
252 lb-ft.
|
260 lb.-ft.
|
In the midsize SUV class, where most of CX-9's rivals have a V6 under the hood, Mazda only offers a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The Dodge Durango is the most powerful car in the segment with 293 hp, followed by 290 hp Santa Fe. Though the 2017 CX-9's fuel economy surpasses the competitors.
2017 CX-9 0-60 mph and Quarter-mile Acceleration
With plentiful power and sharp responsive transmission, the 2017 CX-9 is quick off-the-line and records 7.3 seconds 0-60 mph time. With the size and heaviness of the Mazda CX-9, the car has no trouble in slow traffic and pick up pace quickly while merging onto highways. Though with loaded passengers and cargo, the engine might feel a little overwhelmed.
Models
|
2017 Mazda CX-9
|
2017 Honda Pilot
|
2017 Hyundai Santa Fe
|
2017 Dodge Durango
|
0-60 MPH
|
7.5 sec
|
6.1 sec
|
6.7 sec
|
7.6 Sec
|
Quarter mile
|
15.7 sec
|
15.1 sec
|
15.2 sec
|
15.8 sec
|
Engine
|
2.5L
|
3.5L
|
3.3L
|
3.6 L
|
The Honda Pilot with a V6 is actually the fastest SUV in the segment, followed by Hyundai's Santa Fe. Mazda's turbo four-cylinder isn't the most powerful engine in the class, but shines at low speeds, delivering brisk acceleration from a stop.
2017 CX-9 Ride and Handling
Mazda's biggest highlight is its sporty driving character and fun-to-drive vehicles like the MX-5 Miata. The 2017 CX-9 is the biggest Mazda, and it still carries on the reputation for being an athletic midsize SUV despite its large size. The CX-9 has good stability on the freeway and its sharp steering delivers a crisp response. The well-tuned suspension is more focused on comfort and luxury unlike Mazdas of the past. IT smoothly absorbs road imperfections and offers a quiet cabin.
The CX-9 is nimble around the turns and feels eager. There might be the slightest of body roll because of Suv's high driving position, but the chassis remains planted and ride composed. Front-wheel drive is standard in the CX-9. You can get all-wheel drive for better traction in inclement weather or even sharper performance through turns.
2017 CX-9 Braking Performance
The CX-9 proved to be quite efficient in the emergency stop during which it needed just 115 feet to stop from 60 mph. For a three-row crossover SUV, that's a quite superior performance, thanks to a set of 12.6-inch disc brake rotors.
Model
|
2017 Mazda CX-9
|
2017 Honda Pilot
|
2017 Hyundai Santa Fe
|
2017 Dodge Durango
|
Brake Front
|
N/A
|
12.6"
|
12.6"
|
13.0"
|
Brake Rear
|
12.6"
|
13.0"
|
11.9"
|
13.0"
|
Curb Weight
|
4144 lbs.
|
4054 lbs.
|
4026 lbs.
|
N/A |
60-0 MPH
|
115 ft.
|
128 ft.
|
125 ft.
|
124 ft.
|
With such a heft, the Mazda CX-9 exhibits strong braking performance. Among the rivals, Dodge Durango takes the least distance to stop at 124 feet while the Honda Pilot takes the most distance to stop at 128 feet.