The 2021 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.
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
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2021 Mazda CX-9 Sport 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 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 $3.53 per gallon for premium unleaded in Texas.
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
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
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
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.
2021 Mazda CX-9 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.
Great car and a great value
5 out of 5 stars
Great car abound good value, 12/12/2020
2021 Mazda CX-9 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.
Great Value
5 out of 5 stars
PAR, 02/07/2021
2021 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring 4dr SUV (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
Like the design, handling, comfort and smooth ride. Much better than fthe Pilot, Explorer and Highlander,
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.
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