Zoom Out Mazda’s CX-9 Grand Touring follows the Crossover Formula…maybe too much
Expectations are a double-edged sword. Mazda has done such a good job of engineering the “zoom zoom” feeling hyped in its marketing into the driving personalities of its vehicles that you simply expect it when you get into anything with the company name plate on it. Then you step into the CX-9.
As a driver it’s right where its competition is, which is to say, pleasant but dull. The dullness stems from its weight and tuning to suit higher end crossover norms. Weighing in at 4330 and 4546 pounds in two-wheel and all-wheel drive spec, the CX-9 slots neatly in between crossover competitors like Toyota’s Highlander and GMC’s heavier Acadia. It uses what could be called the “crossover suspension setup” – MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link rear – same as you’ll find on the Highlander, Acadia and Honda Pilot. Throw in the same sort of steering tune and shock damping and you have a Mazda that drives much like a Toyota.
The CX-9 further adheres to the premium crossover formula with a 3-plus liter V6, a six speed auto transmission, optional front wheel or all-wheel drive, and a wheelbase within a few inches of its competitors. So what? Well to this mind Mazdas are supposed to be a bit different – even as crossovers
In that respect the CX-9 does not succeed. Despite 273 horsepower, the Mazda is lazy off the line and in passing as well. The V6’s peak torque and horsepower come well above 4000 RPM and combine with an automatic transmission that relentlessly hunts top gear and shifts leisurely. You can shift the auto trans yourself but let’s face it, one rarely does. Add in the weight and you’ll struggle to get 19 mpg. I managed 17.3. The other crossovers don’t really fair much better though a couple (Toyota, Honda) offer hybrid models.
However the CX-9 is arguably the best looking crossover in its class with a beltline/roofline that converges as it moves aft, conveying a sense of movement. The open-mouthed Mazda front fascia looks better in this scale than on the Mazda3 for example. With the Grand Touring’s 20 inch wheels at the corners, there’s even a sporting stance.
Sharing typical crossover traits has its merits of course. The CX-9 compares favorably in cargo space with a maximum volume (100.7 cu.ft. with 2nd and 3rd row seats down) bested only by the Acadia (108.9 cu.ft.). The three row configuration seats seven though access to the third row is difficult and once there, you’ll want to get right back out unless you’re in elementary school. The seats fold with single lever operation but the second row does not fold completely flat, actually inclining up toward the front buckets.
Those buckets are pretty comfortable though it took a while to find a suitable driving position and I never quite overcame the feeling that I was sitting atop the CX-9 rather than in it. The dash/console layout is clean with well done wood trim. A numbered gear selection display between the tach and speedometer is appreciated though the lack of a dedicated Bluetooth phone button adjacent to the navigation screen isn’t. Without it, you have to go into the Menu for setup and other operations. You can prompt phone and other functions via voice activation but frankly it’s a hassle.
Blind spot monitoring is standard on the Grand Touring. It audibly chimes in a bit too often for my taste but it complements a full package of safety features from roll and dynamic stability control to dual front and side impact airbags and second row curtains. Two front power points and one in the third row are present though the second row is left out.
The CX-9 slips into the mid pack on price but the Grand Touring AWD easily hits $40k with all the goodies. Navigation and a moonroof/Bose stereo package will add $4000 alone. The AWD system works fine but unless you’re in the snow-belt, don’t bother with it. It adds another 200 pounds you won’t need 95 percent of the time.
Mazda’s choices for the CX-9 are understandable but the formulaic approach is a bit of a let down. If Mazda zoomed-in on the CX-9s dynamics again, it could have an already attractive crossover that meets expectation.
The Specs
Price As Tested: $39,800
Engine: 273 hp, 3.7 liter V6
Curb Weight: 4546 pounds
Fuel Economy: 15 city/21 highway
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