2021 Mazda CX-9
2021 Mazda CX-9 Review
- Premium interior, especially in the top-level Signature trim
- Strong acceleration and sporty handling
- Comfortable and quiet on the highway
- Thoughtfully equipped even in base Sport trim
- Less cargo capacity than competitors
- Third-row seats aren't especially accommodating
- New 10.25-inch central display screen with latest Mazda infotainment system is standard
- New Carbon Edition trim with special paint and red leather
- Signature trim has new grille and partially quilted leather seats
- Minor feature changes throughout lineup
- Part of the second CX-9 generation introduced for 2016
Emphasizing style and performance over outright utility, the rakishly penned and turbocharged 2021 Mazda CX-9 is alluring and upscale for a three-row midsize crossover SUV. Sure, it gives up some cargo and third-row passenger space in exchange for its attractive looks, but if you don't need the maximum measurements for either metric, the trade-off might prove worthwhile.
This year, the 2021 Mazda CX-9 adds new infotainment technology, while the top-of-the-line Signature trim level moves deeper into premium territory with a fancy new grille and quilted leather seats. A more affordable alternative is the new CX-9 Carbon Edition, which gets a blacked-out look combined with unique paint, exclusive interior appointments and plenty of equipment.
As is true of any Mazda, the 2021 CX-9 is enjoyable to drive, a rarity in this segment. Be sure to examine our in-depth Expert Rating to learn all of the pros and cons of this appealing SUV.
What's it like to live with?
When Mazda last redesigned the CX-9 for the 2016 model year, we decided to perform a one-year test of the family hauler. Over the course of 22,000 miles, we learned plenty about what's great about the CX-9, and what's not. Be sure to dive deeper into our everyday experiences with the Mazda CX-9, which impressed us more than it depressed us.
Our verdict | |
The Mazda CX-9 is one of the more distinctive three-row midsize SUVs, prioritizing style and driving experience. It also comes closest to closing the gap with the luxury brands with its impressive cabin materials and design. It falls short when it comes to cargo, utility and third-row accommodations, which seem like important things on a midsize-SUV shopper's list, and a big reason why it isn't higher up the ranks. | |
How does the CX-9 drive? | |
The Mazda CX-9 feels like a smaller midsize SUV in many ways, including the way it drives. It's a bit more athletic than competitors on a winding road, with confident brake response, and it's easy to maneuver in tighter confines. The AWD system is tuned mainly for inclement road conditions, but it can handle your weekend "soft-roading" excursions. There's a sufficient amount of power on tap that's available right off the line, delivering great response when you need to get going. Accelerating to 60 mph takes 7.6 seconds, which is good for a three-row midsize SUV, and the transmission shifts smoothly, making for a seamless daily driver experience. | |
How comfortable is the CX-9? | |
Whether you're commuting or taking a long road trip, the CX-9 delivers a good degree of comfort. Much of the credit goes to the smooth ride, which strikes a balance between sporty and compliant. Taller tire sidewalls contribute to this balance, helping provide cushion against road imperfections. Inside, the CX-9 has well-sculpted front seats that offer ample support, but it's worth noting the third row is quite small and not as comfortable as many competitors' back rows. The cabin, however, is luxury-level quiet, which is impressive. Our test car's climate control is easy to use, but it might not blow cold enough if you have polar bear blood running through your veins. The heated and ventilated front seats work decently, and rear passengers have access to climate controls for their area. | |
How’s the interior? | |
The 2020 Mazda CX-9's interior is thoughtfully designed, simple and elegant, and a benchmark for non-luxury SUVs. The primary controls are easy to reach and use. The main control dial is instantly intuitive and provides quick navigation within the menus of the sharp-looking 9-inch infotainment display. Getting in and out of the CX-9 is easy, and access to the third row is much improved thanks to new second-row captain's chairs available in the Signature trim. The first and second rows have a good amount of room, but the third row is best reserved for kids. Visibility isn't quite as open as in other SUVs because of the CX-9's thickish pillars and a rear window that's on the smaller side. | |
How’s the tech? | |
The Bose stereo system, found in the Grand Touring trims and up, delivers clear and powerful sound. Smartphones are easy to pair and quick to be recognized on startup. There are also plenty of USB ports to keep everyone's devices charged — six total in our top trim. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available on Touring models and up. All CX-9s come loaded with advanced safety and driver aids such as adaptive cruise, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning and lane keeping assist. They're well tuned to deal with heavy traffic, and false alarms are rare. Adaptive cruise and lane keeping work well to relieve the burden of heavy traffic. | |
How’s the storage? | |
The CX-9 falls behind the competition in cargo and utility. The 14.4 cubic feet behind the third row could be adequate for many shoppers, but for comparison, there's 21 cubic feet in the class-leading Kia Telluride. Max cargo is equally short, with 71.2 cubic feet in the CX-9 and 87 cubes in the Telluride. Thoughtful interior design makes the CX-9 easy to live with, and growing families should find adequate space for all their things. Door pockets and cupholders are nicely sized. Car seats are easy to install with the second-row captain's chairs. There's a good amount of room for any size car seat, even large rear-facing ones. If you plan to do much towing, the CX-9 doesn't lead in that area, maxing out at a lower-than-average 3,500 pounds. | |
How economical is the CX-9? | |
The EPA fuel economy rating for our all-wheel-drive CX-9 is 23 mpg combined (20 city/26 highway), which is slightly better than average for this class. The 2WD version is rated at 24 mpg combined (22 city/28 highway). We were mostly able to hit those fuel economy targets, but they can be easy to miss if you're heavy-footed. If saving money is more of a priority than max engine power, the CX-9 has the ability to run on regular octane fuel. | |
Is the CX-9 a good value? | |
The CX-9 is definitely among the leaders in terms of its build quality, especially in top Signature trim. The base CX-9 starts around $35,000, slightly above average, but it offers more standard features. It's priced fairly competitively at the top end, and the interior closely resembles a luxury-class cabin thanks to exquisite materials, uniform gaps and clean, elegant design. The exterior paint is well done too. Warranty coverage and ownership benefits such as roadside assistance are pretty standard for the class. | |
Wildcard | |
The Mazda CX-9 Signature is a standout in the three-row midsize SUV class, mostly for its striking design and relatively engaging driving experience. It feels decently athletic through corners but not at the expense of ride comfort. It's the most original offering in the segment. | |
Which CX-9 does Edmunds recommend?
If you're looking for the best combination of value and equipment, the CX-9 Touring is easy to recommend. Choose between front- and all-wheel drive, a second-row bench seat or captain's chairs, and the maximum number of paint and interior color combinations. Leather seats are standard, along with triple-zone automatic climate control and the CX-9's new infotainment system. An option package adds premium sound, second-row window shades and wireless device charging.
See the best deals on the CX-9Top local listings sorted by best deal
Mazda CX-9 models
For 2021, the Mazda CX-9 lineup expands by one trim level. The new Carbon Edition drops into the lineup above the base Sport and midlevel Touring grades and below the upscale Grand Touring and near-luxury Signature trims.
Save as much as $1,936 with Edmunds Click on the model you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal.
2021 Mazda CX-9 pricing
in Ashburn, VASport
2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A
Edmunds Suggested Price$34,127
1 for sale in 20147
Touring
2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A
Edmunds Suggested Price$37,249
4 for sale in 20147
Carbon Edition
2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A
Edmunds Suggested Price$42,969
4 for sale in 20147
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Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2021 Mazda CX-9.
Trending topics in reviews
- appearance
- engine
- handling & steering
- value
- driving experience
- ride quality
- fuel efficiency
- seats
- maintenance & parts
- doors
- infotainment system
- visibility
- spaciousness
- sound system
- climate control
- interior
- comfort
Most helpful consumer reviews
5/5 stars, 2021 Mazda CX-9 has all the room and luxury
KHix,
Grand Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
If you are looking for a lot of room, but not really looking for a vehicle to go 4 wheeling and towing a boat with, then the CX-9 is the car for you. We have had the car for a month now and talked to several previous owners of the CX-9 and they all recommend this car. We love all the options and the room. We opted for the Grand Touring, not the Signature because we didn't want the console between the captains chairs in the 2nd row. We prefer the walk through. But we didn't lose any other options except for the Napa Leather....which is nice but the regular leather is nice as well. For that reason we couldn't see spending an extra 5K on the Signature version.
5/5 stars, Fantastic Choice
Jeff in Houston ,
Grand Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
I knew the CX-9 was a good suv but I didn't it to be a GREAT suv! Styling is superb, engine is very smooth and torquey. The materials on the inside of the driver cabin is on par with brands costing thousands of dollars more.....I traded in my 2016 C300 and never looked back. Really didn't need the 3rd row for it just my wife and I so we fold it down when we need extra cargo space. I would recommend this vehicle for anyone looking to not look like the others
5/5 stars, Great car and a great value
Great car abound good value,
Grand Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The CX9 is luxurious and fun to drive. We have the CX5 as well. The power from the 2.5 turbo is great. We live in the mountains and the torque is plentiful. Not as big as some of the competition, but makes up for it in nimble handling.
5/5 stars, Love My CX9
Kane,
Carbon Edition 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
I traded my 2019 Lincoln Nautilus Reserve in on a 2021 Mazda CX 9 Carbon Edition. I thought I would miss my V6 twin turbo but I do not. My Mazda is fun and easy to drive, has a lot of features, the color in the Carbon Edition is great with the red leather, and overall I am completely impressed with this vehicle while also saving $20k compared to my Nautilus. The storage in most 3 row SUV’s in this class is smaller. I think it’s fine.
Helpful shopping links
Features & Specs
- Base MSRP
- $34,160
- MPG & Fuel
- 22 City / 28 Hwy / 24 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 19.0 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 7 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: front wheel drive
- Transmission: 6-speed shiftable automatic
- Engine
- Inline 4 cylinder
- Horsepower: 227 hp @ 5000 rpm
- Torque: 310 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 3 yr./ 36000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 199.4 in. / Height: 69.0 in.
- Overall Width with Mirrors: N/A
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 77.5 in.
- Curb Weight: 4236 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 14.4 cu.ft.
Safety
Our experts’ favorite CX-9 safety features:
- Smart City Brake Support
- Automatically applies forward or reverse emergency braking if a low-speed collision seems imminent. Includes forward pedestrian detection.
- Smart Brake Support
- Automatically applies forward emergency braking if a collision seems imminent. Similar to Smart City Brake Support but activates at higher speeds.
- Lane Keep Assist
- Steers the CX-9 back into its lane if it begins to drift over the lane marker.
Mazda CX-9 vs. the competition
2021 Mazda CX-9
2021 Ford Explorer
Mazda CX-9 vs. Ford Explorer
Larger and more accommodating than the Mazda CX-9, the Ford Explorer is similarly athletic thanks to its rear-wheel-drive platform and family of turbocharged engines. Also, as with the CX-9, the Explorer's third-row seat isn't especially friendly to adult passengers. However, the bigger and more capable Explorer is also more expensive, especially in ST and Platinum trim levels. But if speed is your ultimate need, the Explorer's available twin-turbocharged V6 is mighty satisfying.
Mazda CX-9 vs. GMC Acadia
Positioned at the smaller end of the midsize SUV segment, the GMC Acadia is similar to the Mazda CX-9 in terms of size. But it targets a different audience with its squared-off styling and available off-road-oriented AT4 trim level. The greatest overlap in terms of price and purpose matches the Acadia Denali against the CX-9 Signature, and here the Mazda is superior in terms of style, sophistication and quality.
Mazda CX-9 vs. Toyota Highlander
"Honey, I Shrunk the Highlander" is the latest sequel in Toyota's long-running midsize SUV series. The Highlander's cramped third-row seat and unimpressive cargo space make the Mazda CX-9 more competitive with the popular Toyota than ever. However, if you're looking for an efficient family-size SUV, the Highlander Hybrid beats all comers with up to 36 mpg in combined driving.
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FAQ
Is the Mazda CX-9 a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2021 CX-9 both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.9 out of 10. You probably care about Mazda CX-9 fuel economy, so it's important to know that the CX-9 gets an EPA-estimated 23 mpg to 24 mpg, depending on the configuration. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the CX-9 has 14.4 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Mazda CX-9. Learn more
What's new in the 2021 Mazda CX-9?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Mazda CX-9:
- New 10.25-inch central display screen with latest Mazda infotainment system is standard
- New Carbon Edition trim with special paint and red leather
- Signature trim has new grille and partially quilted leather seats
- Minor feature changes throughout lineup
- Part of the second CX-9 generation introduced for 2016
Is the Mazda CX-9 reliable?
To determine whether the Mazda CX-9 is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the CX-9. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the CX-9's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2021 Mazda CX-9 a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2021 Mazda CX-9 is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2021 CX-9 and gave it a 7.9 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2021 CX-9 is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2021 Mazda CX-9?
The least-expensive 2021 Mazda CX-9 is the 2021 Mazda CX-9 Sport 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $34,160.
Other versions include:
- Grand Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $44,040
- Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $37,850
- Touring 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $35,950
- Grand Touring 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $42,140
- Carbon Edition 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $43,180
- Signature 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $46,805
- Carbon Edition 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $41,280
- Sport 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $34,160
- Sport 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) which starts at $36,060
What are the different models of Mazda CX-9?
If you're interested in the Mazda CX-9, the next question is, which CX-9 model is right for you? CX-9 variants include Grand Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), Touring 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), and Grand Touring 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A). For a full list of CX-9 models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more