Mazda CX-9 crossover pricier than competition
Attractive interior has new additions, with above-average fit and finish
Canadians are in love with the idea of sitting higher in a vehicle to look over traffic, having four doors for easy access and a hatch design for removing and placing items with ease. The modern crossover vehicle fills this spot in the market, replacing the minivan appeal that raged in the 1980s and ’90s.
Compact cars are still the bestsellers in the country, but the compact crossover is catching up. You will notice that “compact” is a common theme; our tastes and budgets are not as large as they are south of the border, where bigger crossovers rule the road. That said, there is always going to be a need for a five- or seven-passenger crossover for those families with more than three children or the need to tow a trailer.
Most intermediate crossovers come from the Detroit automakers, including the Ford Explorer, Ford Flex, Dodge Durango and the GM trio of Chevy Traverse, GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave. The imports include the new Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot. As you can see, the new Mazda CX-9 has some tough competition.
Until a few years ago, Ford and Mazda shared many components, engines and platforms for their vehicles. This CX-9 is built from the same platform used in the Ford Flex, Edge and Explorer. Ford developed its products to suit buyers and Mazda took the basic platform and turned it into this CX-9. They are similar, but with a unique attitude.
With the introduction of the smaller CX-5 last year, there was a shift to a new design language, called Kodo, or Soul in Motion. The reality is they have a new “face” and this CX9 has been given the upgrade for 2013. The five-point grille and chrome accents centre the headlights. The back features dual exhaust pipes, new tail lights and a new bumper. The base GS trim comes with 18-inch alloy wheels and the top GT model gets the 20-inch wheels.
With a starting price of $33,995, this CX-9 is more expensive than the roughly $30,000 Ford Explorer and new 2013 Nissan Pathfinder. The Mazda’s interior is as attractive as the competition and has some new additions for 2013. The biggest change is the inclusion of a 5.8-inch screen in the centre console for information and entertainment readouts. Bluetooth is standard along with the ability to play music through the stereo from your smartphone without hard-wiring it in.
The Bluetooth was easy to set up and it recognized my phone each time, even remembering the last song played. This is not the case with many new vehicles. The back seat is roomy and comfortable and can slide forward with just one lever being released. The third row isn’t huge but does offer a usable option for families who require this ability. What is different is the fit and finish of the Mazda CX-9 is above average in this class, the materials look and feel well made and provide an almost premium feel.
The ride of the CX-9 is the one area that separates this crossover from the Ford products based on the same platform. What Mazda has always placed in high regard is the handling of its vehicles. The way the suspension is tuned is different, and the result is a more engaging ride. The front and rear suspension are independent, for the best agility, and the spring and shock rates are unique to the CX-9. The steering is very light at slower speeds, but on the highway it firms right up. The CX-9 can be thrown into a corner with ease. Yes, there is body roll, but the handling never fades away.
The only complaint I have when it comes to handling is the rather vague steering feel when driving straight. It has little feedback to the driver, almost disconnected. Powering the CX-9 is a large 3.7L V6, something that is an option on many of the Ford products but comes standard here. It is good for 273 horsepower and sends the power to the front wheels or all wheels when the GT trim is chosen. All-wheel drive is available on the less expensive trim for $2,505.