2018 Mazda CX-9 review
Mazda CX-9 highlights
Customer rating
Pros
- Premium styling
- Sporty handling
- Comfortable and quiet interior
Cons
- Tight third row
- Limited cargo capacity
Mileage (EPA estimate)
20 city, 26 highway, 23 combined
Pricing for current inventory
From $22,998*
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2018 Mazda CX-9 is a premium, fun-to-drive three-row crossover SUV
Its exterior appearance hasn't changed, but Mazda gives its flagship CX-9 several updates for the 2018 model year. Every CX-9 is equipped with Smart City Brake Support, which can automatically apply brakes in an emergency at speeds below 19 mph. Blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic warning are now standard. The CX-9 comes standard with front-wheel drive, and all trims are available with Mazda's i-ACTIV all-wheel-drive system. Four trim levels are offered for the CX-9, ranging from the entry-level Sport to the fully loaded Signature. The CX-9 stands out from the competition with its premium interior and enjoyable driving characteristics. The cabin is roomy, with comfortable seating up front and in the second row. Adults, though, may find the third row somewhat cramped. One of the more attractive three-row crossover SUVs on the market, the CX-9 holds its own in this competitive class that includes the Honda Pilot, Subaru Ascent, and Volkswagen Atlas.
All Mazda CX-9 years
What is new for the 2018 Mazda CX-9?
- Enhanced safety features including advanced driver assistance systems
- Improved fuel efficiency with new engine technology
- Updated infotainment system with larger touchscreen and additional connectivity options
- New exterior color options available
- Standard warranty extended to 5 years or 60,000 miles
2018 Mazda CX-9 trims
Curious how Mazda CX-9 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similaritiesSport:
- 227-hp, 310-lb-ft of torque 2.5L
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Cloth Seats
- Cruise Control
- Fold-Away Third Row
- Overhead Airbags
- Power Mirrors
- Rear Air Conditioning
- Rear Defroster
- View our Mazda CX-9 Sport inventory
Touring:
- Includes all features available on the Sport
- Vinyl Seats
- Automated Cruise Control
- Front Seat Heaters
- Lane Departure Warning
- Leather Seats
- Power Seats
- Power Hatch/Deck Lid
- View our Mazda CX-9 Touring inventory
Grand Touring:
- Includes all features available on the Touring
- Head Up Display
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Memory Seats
- Parking Sensors
- Rear Seat Heaters
- Rear Sunshade
- Sunroofs
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- View our Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring inventory
Signature:
- Includes all features available on the Grand Touring
- Fold-Away Middle Row
- View our Mazda CX-9 Signature inventory
Mazda CX-9 photos
What We Like
Driving: With excellent driving dynamics, the Mazda CX-9 drives like a much smaller vehicle. Handling is excellent, with good steering feedback and strong brakes that provide smooth stopping power. With its powerful turbocharged engine, the CX-9 accelerates quickly for a three-row crossover, allowing you to effortlessly pass slower vehicles and quickly reach highway speeds. Overall, the ride is smooth and comfortable.
Technology: The audio and navigation display is easy to read and works well, and a dial-based interface is simple to navigate with a clear menu structure. Smartphones pair easily, and there are multiple USB ports throughout the cabin to keep everyone's devices charged. Driver-assist features like forward collision warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and blind-spot warning operate well with few false alarms.
Interior: The CX-9 features a well-thought-out cabin with controls in easy reach of the driver and a display that is easy to read. Front seats are comfortable with ample support, and the multiple adjustments make it possible for just about anyone to find a comfortable driving position. Overall, the cabin feels roomy and spacious, with good space for the front and second-row passengers. The third row sits low, providing adequate headroom, but adults will wish for more legroom.
What Needs Improvement
Utility: The CX-9's cabin is roomy, but that spaciousness does not carry into the cargo area. Space behind the third row of seats is on the small side, measuring just 14.4 cubic feet. Space increases dramatically when the second row is folded flat, but it remains smaller than the CX-9's competition. The towing capacity of 3,500 pounds (when properly equipped) is reasonable but not as much as other models in this category.
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Ratings & reliability
Customer ratings
4.9 out of 5
9 customer reviews| 5 Stars | 8 |
|---|---|
| 4 Stars | 1 |
| 3 Stars | 0 |
| 2 Stars | 0 |
| 1 Star | 0 |
RepairPal gave the Mazda CX-9 an overall reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Mazda CX-9 4th out of 16 among Fullsize SUVs.
View RepairPal's full rating of the Mazda CX-9Mazda CX-9 features and specs
Curious how Mazda CX-9 trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities
Touring 4D Sport Utility 2WD
Standard Features
- ABS Brakes
- Air Conditioning
- Automated Cruise Control
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Fold-Away Third Row
- Front Seat Heaters
- Lane Departure Warning
- Leather Seats
- Overhead Airbags
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Seat(s)
- Power Windows
- Rear Air Conditioning
- Rear Defroster
- Rear View Camera
- Side Airbags
- Smart Key
- Third Row Seat
- Traction Control
- Alloy Wheels
- Power Hatch/Deck Lid
- Automatic Transmission
- Turbo Charged Engine
- AM/FM Stereo
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- Bluetooth Technology
- Parking Sensors
- Rear Sunshade
- Sunroof(s)
- Full Roof Rack
- Tow Hitch
- BOSE Sound System
- Navigation System
- Satellite Radio Ready
Drive Wheels
Front Wheel Drive (2WD)
Engine size
2.5L
Horsepower
227
Torque (ft-lbs)
310
Engine type
Turbo Gas
Fuel capacity
19
Wheelbase
115.3"
Overall length
199.4"
Width
77.5"
Height
67.6"
Leg room
F 41"/M 39.4"/R 29.7"
Head room
F 39.3"/M 38.5"/R 35.4"
Front tires
P255/60HR18
Rear tires
P255/60HR18
Seating capacity
7
Max towing capacity
350/3500 lbs.
Transmission
Automatic
2018 Mazda CX-9 FAQ
The 2018 Mazda CX-9 has a maximum towing capacity of 3500 pounds, when properly equipped. Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories.
The 2018 Mazda CX-9 has received an average 4.9 out of 5 stars from our customers. If you're in the market for a 2018 Mazda CX-9, check out reviews from customers just like you. 2018 Mazda CX-9 Reviews.
The Mazda CX-9 received a rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars from RepairPal, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks the Mazda CX-9 as 4 out of 16 among Fullsize SUV
Here are the pros and cons of the 2018 Mazda CX-9: Pros - Ride and Handling - Interior Space - Power Cons - Interior Space - Technology and Entertainment - Visibility
Here is what's new for the 2018 Mazda CX-9:
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Rear Seat Heaters
- Vinyl Seats
- Fold-Away Middle Row
- Head Up Display
The 2018 Mazda CX-9 offers the following fuel efficiency options: • Gas: 22 city / 28 highway MPG (Grand Touring trim) • Gas: 20 city / 26 highway MPG (Signature trim) • Gas: 22 city / 28 highway MPG (Sport trim) • Gas: 22 city / 28 highway MPG (Touring trim) Actual mileage may vary based on driving conditions, vehicle condition, and driving habits.
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We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
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