2010 Mazda CX-9 Review
2010 Mazda CX-9 Review
View more photos
View more photos
View more photos
View more photos
View more photos
+116
Used CX-9 for sale
Appraise This CarSee Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Sporty performance, stylish cabin, easy access to spacious third row, solid build quality, high crash-test scores.
Cons
- Long rear doors can be hard to open in tight parking spaces, stiff ride with 20-inch wheels, a few cheap interior bits, stingy interior storage.
What’s new
For 2010, the Mazda CX-9 undergoes a mild exterior and interior styling refresh to reflect the company's latest design identity. Other changes include a revised multi-information display with a rearview camera, real-time traffic functionality for the navigation system, improved interior materials and updated rear ventilation controls with a readout.
Edmunds says
Want a family-friendly crossover that doesn't compromise on driving excitement? Look no further than the 2010 Mazda CX-9.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2010 Mazda CX-9 Sport 4dr SUV (3.7L 6cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.64 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$243/mo for CX-9 Sport
CX-9 Sport
vs
$261/mo
Avg. Large SUV
Vehicle overview
One of the most notable changes to the 2010 Mazda CX-9 is a restyled front end that follows the brand's newest upturned grille aesthetic first established on the new Mazda 3. If the latest CX-9 appears to be smiling, there's good reason -- it's a standout crossover among an increasingly crowded field. This large crossover sets itself apart from the competition with tasteful styling, a roomy interior and athletic driving dynamics.
When the CX-9 debuted three years ago, we were immediately impressed with its nimble handling -- it's certainly one of the best three-row vehicles you'll find in this regard. By comparison, other crossovers in this class can come across as rather soulless to drive. We're also fans of the Mazda's driving position -- it's more carlike than the competition's upright minivan posture. Add in easy access thanks to wide-opening doors, excellent build quality, plenty of features and attractive styling inside, and the 2010 Mazda CX-9 becomes a vehicle you'd enjoy driving even if you don't have a family to haul around.
Few competitors can match the roster of positives the CX-9 has to offer, but there are plenty of other crossovers vying for buyers' attention. The Ford Flex is our other top favorite, thanks to its high-quality interior, excellent third-row seat and funky exterior style. Other possible choices include the smaller but more fuel-efficient Toyota Highlander or the Buick Enclave/Chevy Traverse/GMC Acadia triplets, which are roomier but not as enjoyable to drive. In the end, we're sure that if you pick the 2010 Mazda CX-9, it'll put a smile on your face as big as its own.
Performance & mpg
All 2010 Mazda CX-9s are powered by a 3.7-liter V6 that produces 273 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic with manual shift control is the only transmission available, but buyers can choose between front- or all-wheel drive. Properly equipped, the CX-9 can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
In testing, a front-wheel-drive CX-9 accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 7.4 seconds, while an AWD model required 8.5 seconds. Compared to competing models, these figures are just about average. Fuel economy is slightly below average, though, at an EPA-estimated 16 mpg city/22 mpg highway and 18 mpg in combined driving for front-wheel-drive models. All-wheel-drive CX-9s drop by 1 mpg across the board.
Safety
Standard safety equipment for all 2010 Mazda CX-9s includes antilock disc brakes with brake assist, stability control with a rollover sensor, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and active head restraints. An optional rearview camera is available on Touring and Grand Touring models, while a blind-spot warning system is standard on the Grand Touring. In government crash testing, the CX-9 scored a perfect five out of five stars for frontal and side crash protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety also awarded the CX-9 its highest rating of "Good" for both frontal-offset and side-impact crashworthiness.
Driving
Like many large crossovers, the 2010 Mazda CX-9 provides a comfortable ride for long road trips. Surprisingly, the CX-9 also performs admirably on curvy roads. From behind the driver seat, it feels like a much smaller vehicle, aided by a precise and communicative steering feel -- though it is a bit light on-center. While driving dynamics are a hit on winding back roads, those capabilities also translate well to the tight confines of a city. The compliant suspension soaks up bumps and potholes to provide a smooth, comfortable ride, but we would steer buyers away from the Grand Touring's 20-inch wheels, which tend to make the ride somewhat choppy over the rough stuff.
Interior
For 2010, the Mazda CX-9 receives incremental improvements in terms of interior materials and usability. New leather and cloth seating surfaces along with wood and chrome trim pieces add just a bit of distinction to the already sporty styling. A reworked split-lid center console bin improves access, and a redesigned steering wheel facilitates easier Bluetooth, audio and cruise control operation. Returning are the two-tone leather, red and blue instrument lighting and piano black trim that we're partial to, but so are a few things we don't like, such as subpar plastics and a lack of useful storage cubbies.
The CX-9's second- and third-row seats can easily accommodate normal-size adults. The second row's sliding and recline adjustments provide plenty of legroom for 6-footers, though headroom may be the limiting factor. Access to the third row is easy, thanks to large rear-door openings and a fold-and-slide second row, but the larger doors can be troublesome in tight parking spaces. With the second and third rows folded flat, the CX-9 offers up 101 cubic feet of cargo capacity.
2010 Mazda CX-9 models
The 2010 Mazda CX-9 is a large seven-passenger crossover SUV that's available in three trim levels: Sport, Touring and Grand Touring. The entry-level Sport model includes 18-inch alloy wheels, three-zone automatic climate control, full power accessories, a leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel with audio and cruise controls, a trip computer, Bluetooth and a six-speaker CD player with an auxiliary audio jack. Stepping up to the Touring version adds heated mirrors, leather upholstery (for front- and second-row seats) and heated power front seats. The range-topping Grand Touring adds 20-inch wheels, xenon headlights, foglights, rain-sensing wipers, keyless ignition and entry, driver-seat memory presets, a second-row armrest, dark silver and wood grain cabin accents, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and special blue cabin illumination.
Available options are dependent on trim level and include a sunroof, a power rear liftgate, a navigation system with a rearview camera, a stand-alone rearview camera (with a display in the rearview mirror), remote engine start, roof rails and a rear-seat entertainment system with audio and video inputs. Also available is an upgraded Bose surround-sound system with a six-CD changer, satellite radio and an in-dash audio display.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
3.5 out of 5 stars3.5/5Above Average
#4 out of 16 among Fullsize SUVs
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Mazda CX-9 from 2008-2022.$480/yr
vs. $614/yr
for Average Fullsize SUV
for Average Fullsize SUV
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).1.57x/yr
vs. 1.59x/yr
for Average Fullsize SUV
for Average Fullsize SUV
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).13.8%
vs. 16.7%
for Average Fullsize SUV
for Average Fullsize SUV
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2010 Mazda CX-9.
5 star(80%)
4 star(13%)
3 star(2%)
2 star(1%)
1 star(4%)
133 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
A great SUV.
Justin B, 10/11/2015
2010 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring 4dr SUV (3.7L 6cyl 6A)
Purchased new, the CX 9 is a bit pricey and has garnered some criticism for its high MSRP. However, as other reviewers have said, a used CX9 is an absolute bargain. It' resale value isn't awesome, and it is likely influenced by the car's mileage - about 18 city and 20 highway.
On the other hand, the positive attributes of the CX 9 cannot be ignored. A very confortable pair of front … bucket seats with excellent forward visibility. Decent finishing as per the car's interior. You have to be careful not to scratch the leather seats, but this is true of any leather interior. The climate control and radio are very good, with a powerful a/c. The controls can be a pain to reach if you roll the seat backwards.
The vehicle is cavernous, with miles of cargo space. The back seat is split 60/40, so you can drop one seat to accomodate a large rug or lumber from Home Depot.
Then there is the motor. Mazda didn't design the motor, it's a Ford V6! It is rated at 265 or 270 HP, and they may have under-reported the output. The car hits 90 in an eyeblink on an interstate and flies up hills like a sports sedan. This notwithstanding that it is a 4,200 pound behemoth. You have to be careful braking, though. The SUV has inertia so when you roll up to a stop sign, you brake in this SUV a good car length sooner than you would in a sedan. The car is too big to slap the brakes on, so you are wise to drive around town casually.
Mazda mated the outstanding Ford V6 (later iterations went into the F 150, and a 305 HP monster for the Mustang), to a mediocre drivetrain. The Aisin tranny does not shift smoothly at low speeds, though it is fine on the highway. After reading many reviews, it is my impression that the tranny needs to warm up and just doesn't accelerate/shift well at low speeds.
Car and Driver has noted that the CX 9 drives very well for a big vehicle. Steering is excellent, the car tracks well, and the suspension is pretty good but not great. The car is too big to fly over speed bumps or dips in the road -so don't do it.
Given the combination of awesome power, a spacious interior, excellent front seats, good steering and a decent suspension, not to mention a pretty good radio and climate control, the car is a screaming "buy."
5 out of 5 stars
Great Vehicle!
Kay Renfroe, 11/07/2015
2010 Mazda CX-9 Touring 4dr SUV AWD (3.7L 6cyl 6A)
2010 Mazda CX-9 is comfortable, great smooth ride, about 19 to 22 mpg. We enjoy the separate temperature controls for each side in the front and separate control for the back seat. Heated seats are nice too! There are no blind spots when changing lanes. I have enjoyed driving this vehicle for the last 3 years.
5 out of 5 stars
AWESOME RIDE!!!
cathman, 03/07/2013
2010 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring 4dr SUV AWD (3.7L 6cyl 6A)
Amazing vehicle!! Bought used w/40,000 miles. Incredible used car deal! Absolutely loaded... Handles like its on rails(for a big car). Avg. 25.6 mpg on a 3 state road trip! Tons of power, and super comfortable!!I'm a major Mazda fan... 03 MPV has 185,000 on it and still gets 26.5 mpg! Mazda zoom zoom thru & thru!! If u need a big family vehicle without needing a minivan...Go buy this … car!
4.88 out of 5 stars
Crash worthy
veloguru, 06/07/2011
2010 Mazda CX-9 Touring 4dr SUV AWD (3.7L 6cyl 6A)
I had my 2010 CX-9 for a year and was involved in a very hard front end collision which rolled the other vehicle over. My two young kids and I were totally unscratched, and even though the front end was destroyed, all the doors were still aligned and working perfectly! Impressive. I'm off to my dealer to order a brand new CX-9. ( white, not black this time, too lazy to keep the black … clean!)
2010 CX-9 Highlights
Sport
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $28,805 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 18 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $243/month |
Seating | 7 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 17.2 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the CX-9 include:
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
People who viewed this also viewed
4.0 average Rating out of 45 reviews. |
Starting at $37,845 |
4.3 average Rating out of 27 reviews. |
Starting at $29,300 |
4.3 average Rating out of 11 reviews. |
Starting at $30,300 |
Related Used 2010 Mazda CX-9 info
Vehicle reviews of used models
- Used FIAT 500X 2021
- Used FIAT 500L 2020
- Used Lexus RC 300 2022
- Used GMC Savana 2020
- Used Lexus GS 450H 2018 For Sale
Shop similar models
Shop used vehicles in your area
- Used Mazda CX-9 2012
- Used Mazda CX-9 2019
- Used Mazda CX-9 2010
- Used Mazda CX-9 2016
- Used Mazda CX-9 2015
- Used Mazda CX-9 2014
- Used Mazda CX-9 2013
- Used Mazda CX-9 2017
- Used Mazda CX-9 2018
- Used Mazda CX-9 2011 For Sale
Popular new car reviews and ratings
- 2023 Volvo S90
- 2024 Lexus LC
- BMW iX 2024
- 2024 BMW X2
- 2025 Subaru Ascent News
- BMW X2 2024
- Lincoln MKC 2023
- BMW 8 Series 2024
- 2023 Audi RS 5
- 2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI
Research other models of Mazda
- Mazda CX9
- Mazda Miata
- Mazda CX 50
- Mazda CX 30
- Mazda CX 5
- 2023 Mazda 3
- 2024 Mazda 3
- 2023 Mazda CX-5
- MX Miata RF
- CX90
Research similar vehicles
- 2024 Ford Bronco
- 2023 Armada
- Expedition SUV
- Ford Bronco Sports
- 2024 Land Rover Defender
- BMW BMW X3
- Volvo E XC90
- Mercedes Benz Coupe GLC
- Jeep Wagoneer And Grand Wagoneer
- SUV Honda Passport
Other models
- Used GMC Sonoma in Woonsocket, RI
- Used Ford E-Series-Van in Lancaster, CA
- Used Honda Fit in Pocatello, ID
- Used Bentley Mulsanne in Gary, IN
- New Infiniti QX60 for Sale in Rutland, VT
- Used Land-Rover Range-Rover-Velar in Westport, MA
- Used Pontiac G5 in Paterson, NJ
- Used BMW X1 in Spring Valley, NY
- Used Lexus LS-400 in Largo, FL
- Used Hyundai Entourage in Saint Petersburg, FL