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 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?
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.
Sponsored cars related to the CX-9
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2021 Mazda CX-9.
Trending topics in reviews
- appearance
- driving experience
- engine
- handling & steering
- ride quality
- comfort
- interior
- seats
Most helpful consumer reviews
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.
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.
Get the extra's - it's so nice to have heated/cooled seats and the extra features that come with a Grand Touring model are so worth it!
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
Features & Specs
| Grand Touring 4dr SUV AWD 2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $44,040 |
| MPG | 20 city / 26 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 7 |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 227 hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Touring 4dr SUV AWD 2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $37,850 |
| MPG | 20 city / 26 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 7 |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 227 hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Touring 4dr SUV 2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $35,950 |
| MPG | 22 city / 28 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 7 |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 227 hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Grand Touring 4dr SUV 2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $42,140 |
| MPG | 22 city / 28 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 7 |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 227 hp @ 5000 rpm |
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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.
NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
| Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall | 4 / 5 |
| Driver | 4 / 5 |
| Passenger | 4 / 5 |
| Side Crash Rating | Rating |
| Overall | 5 / 5 |
| Side Barrier Rating | Rating |
| Overall | 5 / 5 |
| Driver | 5 / 5 |
| Passenger | 5 / 5 |
| Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings | Rating |
| Front Seat | 5 / 5 |
| Back Seat | 5 / 5 |
| Rollover | Rating |
| Rollover | 4 / 5 |
| Dynamic Test Result | No Tip |
| Risk Of Rollover | 15.1% |
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
| Side Impact Test | Good |
|---|---|
| Roof Strength Test | Good |
| Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint | Good |
| IIHS Small Overlap Front Test | Not Tested |
| Moderate Overlap Front Test | Good |
Mazda CX-9 vs. the competition
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.
FAQ
Is the Mazda CX-9 a good car?
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?
Is the 2021 Mazda CX-9 a good car?
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?
More about the 2021 Mazda CX-9
2021 Mazda CX-9 Overview
The 2021 Mazda CX-9 is offered in the following submodels: CX-9 SUV. Available styles 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), Grand Touring 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), Signature 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), Carbon Edition 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), Carbon Edition 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), Sport 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A), and Sport 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A).
What do people think of the 2021 Mazda CX-9?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2021 Mazda CX-9 and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2021 CX-9 5.0 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2021 CX-9.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2021 Mazda CX-9 and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2021 CX-9 featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2021 Mazda CX-9?
2021 Mazda CX-9 Signature 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2021 Mazda CX-9 Signature 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $47,980. The average price paid for a new 2021 Mazda CX-9 Signature 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $3,141 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $3,141 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $44,839.
The average savings for the 2021 Mazda CX-9 Signature 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 6.5% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 7 2021 Mazda CX-9 Signature 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Denver area.
2021 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2021 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $45,215. The average price paid for a new 2021 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $2,908 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $2,908 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $42,307.
The average savings for the 2021 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 6.4% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 20 2021 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Denver area.
2021 Mazda CX-9 Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2021 Mazda CX-9 Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $39,025. The average price paid for a new 2021 Mazda CX-9 Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $2,790 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $2,790 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $36,235.
The average savings for the 2021 Mazda CX-9 Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 7.1% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 16 2021 Mazda CX-9 Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Denver area.
2021 Mazda CX-9 Carbon Edition 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2021 Mazda CX-9 Carbon Edition 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $44,355. The average price paid for a new 2021 Mazda CX-9 Carbon Edition 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $2,817 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $2,817 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $41,538.
The average savings for the 2021 Mazda CX-9 Carbon Edition 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 6.4% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 8 2021 Mazda CX-9 Carbon Edition 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Denver area.
2021 Mazda CX-9 Sport 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2021 Mazda CX-9 Sport 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $37,235. The average price paid for a new 2021 Mazda CX-9 Sport 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $1,972 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $1,972 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $35,264.
The average savings for the 2021 Mazda CX-9 Sport 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 5.3% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 7 2021 Mazda CX-9 Sport 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the Denver area.
Which 2021 Mazda CX-9s are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2021 Mazda CX-9 for sale near. There are currently 81 new 2021 CX-9s listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $36,960 and mileage as low as 1 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2021 Mazda CX-9. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $2,321 on a used or CPO 2021 CX-9 available from a dealership near you.
Can't find a new 2021 Mazda CX-9s you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new Mazda for sale - 8 great deals out of 19 listings starting at $8,540.
Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2021 Mazda CX-9?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Mazda lease specials