2022 Mazda CX-9

May 05, 2022

The 2022 Mazda CX-9 is the three-row crossover for buyers who'd rather be driving a Miata but can’t live with a car that’s so space-challenged. The CX-9’s turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides adequate acceleration, but its chassis is what delivers its trademark driving verve. Inside, occupants are treated to a premium cabin but the third row is admittedly cramped, especially in comparison to roomier rivals such as the Hyundai Palisade, the Kia Telluride, and the Jeep Grand Cherokee L. Still, this trade-off seems worth it to us as driving enthusiasts, and we expect other likeminded folks will see it the same way.

Fuel

Apart from its solid acceleration performance, the CX-9 is, according to the EPA, more fuel efficient than many of its rivals. The front-wheel drive model earned EPA estimates of 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway; all-wheel drive drops both of those figures by 2 mpg. In our real-world highway fuel-economy test, the all-wheel-drive CX-9 matched its 26-mpg rating.

Engine

In a segment where V-6 power is common, Mazda took a risk by offering a turbocharged four-cylinder engine as the CX-9's sole powertrain in the hope of a gain in fuel-economy. It does eke out an advantage over some competitors, but it's slight. The engine sounds gutsy and managed a class-competitive result in our acceleration testing, where it scooted our Grand Touring test vehicle from zero to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds. The 2021 CX-9 is clearly the driving enthusiast's family hauler; surprisingly light on its feet, it often feels as if you're driving a smaller SUV. The suspension is firm, but it's still supple enough riding over rough stretches of road. The steering, while not as communicative as other Mazda’s, still imparts vigor that's missing from other crossovers. The firm suspension and accurate steering culminate in superior cornering control.