While not exactly compact (5,101 mm long vs. the 4,785-mm Toyota Highlander and 5,206-mm Chevrolet Traverse), the CX-9 remains agile and easy to drive. Visibility and manoeuvrability in tight or crowded spots are further improved by an available blind spot monitoring system with warning lamps in the outside mirrors, informing the driver of the impending danger.
Elsewhere, access to the third-row seats is made easy thanks to generous door openings and ample legroom. With seven passengers on board, cargo capacity is significantly reduced but still decent if said passengers are not travelling very far. By the way, rear-seat occupants enjoy great levels of comfort and they even have their own climate controls.
Tipping the scales
At 2,056 kilos, the Mazda CX-9 is no featherweight — consider though that the Ford Flex Limited ($46,599) weighs 2,105 kilos and the Volkswagen Touareg ($45,300), 2,332 kilos — and you feel the effects under acceleration and upon braking. Overall performance proves adequate, but remember the CX-9 is neither light nor lithe, so anticipate your manoeuvres when driving through town.
The 3.7-litre V6 can be described as a smooth, flexible performer in most circumstances, although 273 horsepower isn’t quite enough when loaded with passengers and gear. The aforementioned flexibility comes from the nicely-calibrated six-speed automatic transmission. Despite what feels like a happy union between these two powertrain components, rear-world fuel economy could be higher; my tester averaged 13 L/100 km.
No one can deny the effectiveness of Mazda’s all-wheel drive system in the snow. Meanwhile, the various electronic aids step in just late enough to let you appreciate the excellent dynamics of the CX-9 but soon enough to feel confident and safe on the road. As competent as it may be in winter conditions, though, I seriously question the vehicle’s abilities in off-road situations. The massive 20-inch wheels sure won’t help you get through muddy trails.
The suspension couldn’t care less, however, as it stays compliant at all times. Unfortunately, the CX-9 suffers from invasive road and wind noise, much like other Mazda products.
A smart choice in the end
The 2010 Mazda CX-9 GT AWD no doubt remains an extremely interesting choice as far as medium-to-large SUVs and crossovers go. It’s sleek, functional, fairly sporty and roomy. Call it an all-around athlete with a few minor shortcomings that most people can live with. Plus, it’s got that smile!
photo:Matthieu Lambert
Elsewhere, access to the third-row seats is made easy thanks to generous door openings and ample legroom. With seven passengers on board, cargo capacity is significantly reduced but still decent if said passengers are not travelling very far. By the way, rear-seat occupants enjoy great levels of comfort and they even have their own climate controls.
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| The 273 horsepower of the V6 3.7L is enough for everyday use. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com) |
Tipping the scales
At 2,056 kilos, the Mazda CX-9 is no featherweight — consider though that the Ford Flex Limited ($46,599) weighs 2,105 kilos and the Volkswagen Touareg ($45,300), 2,332 kilos — and you feel the effects under acceleration and upon braking. Overall performance proves adequate, but remember the CX-9 is neither light nor lithe, so anticipate your manoeuvres when driving through town.
The 3.7-litre V6 can be described as a smooth, flexible performer in most circumstances, although 273 horsepower isn’t quite enough when loaded with passengers and gear. The aforementioned flexibility comes from the nicely-calibrated six-speed automatic transmission. Despite what feels like a happy union between these two powertrain components, rear-world fuel economy could be higher; my tester averaged 13 L/100 km.
No one can deny the effectiveness of Mazda’s all-wheel drive system in the snow. Meanwhile, the various electronic aids step in just late enough to let you appreciate the excellent dynamics of the CX-9 but soon enough to feel confident and safe on the road. As competent as it may be in winter conditions, though, I seriously question the vehicle’s abilities in off-road situations. The massive 20-inch wheels sure won’t help you get through muddy trails.
The suspension couldn’t care less, however, as it stays compliant at all times. Unfortunately, the CX-9 suffers from invasive road and wind noise, much like other Mazda products.
A smart choice in the end
The 2010 Mazda CX-9 GT AWD no doubt remains an extremely interesting choice as far as medium-to-large SUVs and crossovers go. It’s sleek, functional, fairly sporty and roomy. Call it an all-around athlete with a few minor shortcomings that most people can live with. Plus, it’s got that smile!
photo:Matthieu Lambert
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