2017 Mazda CX-9 Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?
What’s New for 2017?
For the 2017 model year, the Touring trim now comes standard with more safety features. No changes were made to the SUV’s styling or performance.
Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2017 Mazda CX-9 – The Pros
1. Very Fuel-Efficient
The 2017 Mazda CX-9 is easier on gas than the typical three-row SUV. It is rated to return 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. When tested in real-world driving conditions, the CX-9 actually surpassed its combined EPA fuel economy rating. Although the CX-9 can burn 87 octane, you will notice a decrease in power.
2. Outstanding Handling
Very few three-row crossovers in the class handle better than the 2017 Mazda CX-9. It has the driving character of a midsize sedan. Its sporty steering and sharp handling make it especially engaging to drive. The CX-9 feels just as stable on winding roads as it does on the open highway. Drivers will always feel a strong sense of control.
3. Sprinted Performance
All versions of the 2017 Mazda CX-9 are powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. A six-speed automatic transmission comes standard as well. It delivers a very lively performance without giving up any fuel efficiency. Mazda tuned it to develop a healthy 250 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. A competitive 0-60 time of 7.2 seconds make the CX-9 a quite fun daily-driver.
4. Good Choice for Wintry Weather
A front-wheel-drive system comes standard on the 2017 Mazda CX-9. However, the optional AWD system is a must for the drivers who must travel in the snow. If the AWD system detects a loss of traction, it quickly makes the necessary adjustments. Because of the CX-9’s extra ground clearance, it is more suitable for heavy snow than an AWD sedan.
5. Sporty Styling
The Mazda CX-9’s athletic styling matches its sporty driving dynamics. A sleek body enables the CX-9 to stand apart from today’s other three-row crossovers. Even the base Sport model comes equipped with LED headlights and 18-inch alloy wheels. If you want to turn more heads, check out the Grand Touring trim. It comes loaded with a slick set of 20-inch wheels.
6. Relaxing Family Vehicle
Up to seven people can fit inside the 2017 Mazda CX-9. While kids will fit comfortably in the third-row seat, everyone will find the first two rows of seats to be roomy. Drivers will like the CX-9’s commanding view of the road. Furthermore, it is one of the quietest SUVs in the segment.
7. Sporty Interior Design
When first getting behind the wheel of the 2017 Mazda CX-9, you will immediately notice its sporty cockpit. A race-inspired gauge cluster and three-spoke steering wheel gives the CX-9 an extra level of driving excitement. You will also like the crossover’s leather-wrapped gear shifter. It has the atmosphere of a genuine sports sedan. Most importantly, the entire cabin has a high-quality construction.
8. Useful Safety Technologies
Mazda offers a number of useful driving aids. A helpful backup camera comes standard. When traveling at low speeds, Mazda’s Smart City Brake Support technology can prevent costly fender benders. Meanwhile, the Grand Touring model comes equipped with full-speed automatic braking. Some of the other available safety innovations include lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring.
9. Extravagant Signature Trim
The top-of-the-line 2017 Mazda CX-5 Signature rivals the luxurious of a more expensive nameplate. Rosewood trim and premium leather upholstery make its cabin look especially fancy. Some of the Signature model’s standard goodies include a thunderous Bose sound system, adaptive cruise control, and exterior LED accent lighting. Expect to pay around $45,300 for this upscale model.
10. Well-Designed Infotainment System
Car reviewers have given Mazda’s infotainment system high marks for its innovative design. A dial controller enables you to quickly surf through the menu screen. Integrating your smartphone will be a piece of cake. You will also appreciate the infotainment system’s clear graphics.
Reasons Not to Buy a 2017 Mazda CX-9 – The Cons
1. Tight Third-Row Seat
The crossover’s third-row seat is most suitable for children. Most adults will desire a bit more legroom. This could be a concern for the drivers who need the maximum amount of passenger room.
2. No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have become extremely popular. Unfortunately, these smartphone technologies are not available for the 2017 Mazda CX-9. A lot of iPhone uses consider Apple CarPlay to be a must-have feature.
3. Not a Great Off-Road Vehicle
You can definitely use the 2017 Mazda CX-9 for traveling in the snow. However, it is not engineered to handle rough terrain. It lacks rugged enhancements such as skid plates and all-terrain tires. If you want to take an off-road excursion, you may want to check out a SUV like the Toyota 4Runner.
How it stacks up to the competition:
Some of the CX-9’s key competitors include the Dodge Journey and the Mitsubishi Outlander. In terms of sportiness, the sharp-handling CX-9 has the edge over these crossover SUVs. The new Mazda CX-9 also offers a greater number of premium trims.
Conclusion:
With the ability to seat up to seven people, the 2017 Mazda CX-9 remains a great all-around family vehicle. You will enjoy the CX-9’s fun-to-drive nature and impressive real-world fuel economy. While the CX-9 is slightly more expensive than some of the competition, it does reward you with a high level of quality. An excellent safety rating puts the CX-9 among the top three-row crossovers on the market.
