2016 / 2017 Mazda CX-9 Review and Road Test | DETAILED in 4K UHD!

Mazda's CX-9 continues the Zoom-Zoom brand's tradition of creating mainstream alternatives that are as engaging as they are practical. The CX-9 may not be the fastest 3-row crossover on sale but it is one of the best handling and one of the most roomy inside. In addition to what we have come to expect from Mazda, the CX-9 is also one of the best three-row values and one of the most fuel efficient. If you're looking for the cure for the common family crossover, this is it.
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[@Sami.the.auto.advisor]

Alex's in-depth knowledge and comparisons always amazes me. Simply the most helpful and in-depth car reviews... he is the absolute champion.

[@seanm.collins9888]

Yepp, straight to the point with solid camera work and hard facts. Nothing of the "Top Gear" and "drone" action shots like other channels.

[@nenikun]

Not only a great review about the SUV, but even better comparison with other models. Thank you for your in-depth analysis, Alex.

[@asseenontv10]

Best reviews, hands down. Wouldn't buy a car without hearing Alex's review! Great job!

[@nreeldeep1]

It's a little after 10pm on a rainy night. I'm watching this video in sleep pants, socks and a tshirt. I paused about 10 minutes into the video, went upstairs, threw on some sweats and sneakers, got in the car and drove 3 miles to the local mazda dealership to take a walk around tour of the CX-9. I couldn't wait until the next day to check it out. There was a white model and Charcoal colored one I think. Not sure because of the poor lighting on the lot. That beast is a beauty! Videos and photos do it no justice. The profile is delicious and looks like nothing else in the segment. So long, sleek and low slung. I'm most impressed with the design of the front and rear lights. Pure sexy. Mazda has taken light design to a new level. I took some photos and sent them to my girlfriend. Told her this is very possibly our next vehicle as we are in the market for a crossover. I plan on scheduling a test drive this week.

[@clubpenguinandanimaljam1813]

Stevie G, did you end up getting the vehicle?

[@duranamo4297]

To this day, we don't know if Stevie bought a CX-9.

[@KickinItWithMyHomies]

most in-depth and helpful review in the biz (with relevant comparisons). keep up the GREAT work Alex!

[@phuot1]

I'm looking at a lot of car test, but yours are by far the best, mostly because of the information and comparaison vs others. Keep up the good work..

[@robertwilliam9558]

The CX-9 is the best looking SUV bar none.

[@SimplexSM]

Robert William It's not an SUV.

[@lalr8888]

Alex you always do a great job. I always watch your reviews if I want to know more about a car and how they compare to others it competes with. Keep up to great work, you're one of the best out there!

[@scottbiccum6977]

Wow! This channel is, hands down, the VERY BEST (most informative, fair and professional) automotive review channels on KZbin..

[@ZachTheTechie97]

As always, another great review Alex. I worked at a Mazda dealership over the summer and the CX-9 was by one of my favorites behind the Miata.

[@dualboot360]

Alex, thanks for the detailed review. As a 4 month CX-9 owner, I couldn't be happier. The vehicle is running great and has all the bells and whistles I could ever want along with an impressive zero-to-go feel for such a large vehicle. Even though I have the fully loaded Signature series, I still feel like I "stole" the car for that amount of money. Cheers and I look forward to more of your reviews.

[@musthaf1]

hi, i'm looking into buying the cx-9, torn between it and the pilot. Was wondering if you have anything to say about your cx9, in terms of comfort overall and the third row space and cargo space.

[@dualboot360]

I bought the Signature model so it has all the bells and whistles from the Nappa leather to all the safety features. I am happy with the ergonomics and after almost a year, there are no rattles, nothing is falling apart and the car is still fun to drive. I keep the third row folded down to accommodate a stroller but even with it in the back, there is ample storage for a trip to Costco for a family of 3 plus two dogs.

[@jamesschafer5747]

Also the front seats are NOT comfortable in my opinion. I am not a big guy (5'11, 175lbs) but the center console really limits the leg room (width measurement). It felt very tight, similar to a compact car.

[@quiksilverr74]

Hi, i'm considering getting a used CX-9 signature...i read some long term reviews commenting on how the a/c didn't work too well in high temperatures. Also, do you have any feedback on actual placement of a/c and heating knobs, read somewhere that they weren't placed in a user friendly way (hard to access, etc.). Any feedback would greatly be appreciated, thank you in advance.

[@armaniusmaximus]

Great review as always!! Enjoyed and brings me one step closer to getting a CX9 in the future.

[@renaks27]

Thanks for the video! I especially love the last section of your video where you compare different models side by side. We were teetering between a Pilot and CX-9 and bought the CX-9 AWD grand touring last month. With 1600 miles in mixed driving, I've averaged 23.4 mpg (I'm still playing with it so I'm not being gentle!). (My 6'2 husband was able to adjust and use the heads up display without cutting off any information. The adjustment seemed backward, though.)

[@4mithrandir]

Just an excellent review! I subscribed. Keep up the good work.

[@MrMentalSoul]

Definitely the most detailed car reviews on KZbin (I previously thought SaabKyle04 was the most in-depth, but I was wrong). Well done.

[@sabuvarghese85]

Hi Alex, you are doing an amazing job. Keep it up.

[@Aschoolbusandsimulatorfan2219]

I'm six years late! Also awesome job Alex.

[@RozeAbove]

Another great review yet again!

[@serbzero]

what a great review! very, very detailed! love it!

[@Trave13r]

I'm impressed with this guy's review. already a fan.

[@amitbhola9582]

Alex...u r really good in this. Great work.

[@conniecodger4654]

keep up the good work Alex - a Canadian fan

[@faraznoor6802]

Great review

[@jpk112]

Saw and was able to sit in one last weekend at a local car show. The CX-9 is a very attractive car in person and the materials inside felt a step above any previous Mazda model that I have been in.

[@user-ve2qe1qi8o]

European Viewer Excellent presentation. Very detailed comparison of competitive SUVs.Very good effort!

[@mareknyc9320]

Alex your review is great Thank you

[@imagethread]

great in depth review

[@benklein5115]

Hi Alex, great review as always. Can we expect one for the 2017 mazda 3 or the 2017 mazda 6 in the near future?

[@dcuccia]

I agree it's the most attractive. F Pace is also good looking, but a stretch to say it's under $50k.

[@e.simons6964]

Great job as always Alex. I'd love to see the motor of the CX9 in the CX5! If that was a brilliant idea Mazda should also know I want the new 2.2 diesel in the CX9 as well! That would make a truly great SUV!

[@EuanHenry]

Great review as always, I am seriously considering the 2017 Nissan Pathfinder how does it compare to the CX-9

[@nkdadson9962]

This review is excellent.

[@dschonsie]

The tune at the beginning remembers me 'the duel' from the movie 'electric dreams'. ; )

[@ricoaks7198]

Thank you Alex for your honest reviews. i love this Mazda but they need to something about their crash test scores.

[@RamYerrapothu]

Hi Alex, Thanks for Video. how does 2017 Durango and Pathfinder compete with CX9. Appreciated 👍

[@zihui1234567]

Where's the hallmark exclusive trunk comfort rating :D Great review as always. Alex, when would you review the 2017 Buick Lacrosse? Thanks!

[@skleice]

Awesome SUV. Can't wait to get my CX9 Touring!

[@navajasrs2402]

Get the GT. I'm glad I did.

[@CrosSinXLimits]

Hello, how it its going with the CX9, any problem?

[@marinoint]

Honda should really make a 5-seat option available for the top trim of Pilot.

[@emirsaracevic]

I suggest to go little further and examine cars under like savegegeese does and give quality look under .....

[@Davidipac]

so informative

[@ankiilosaurus]

please post 2018 Mazda cx9 review

[@pongsakorningpongpan544]

Are you recommend the family car between all new CX-9 2016 and all new CR-V 2017 ? which car is more quite in the cabin , CR-V or CX-9 ?

[@DoanVincent1980]

Alex, what will be different in the 2017 model year. Should I wait or not? Thanks

[@threeer02]

You need to do a 2019 update for the CX-9.

[@dariog3038]

You know the HUD height is adjustable, right?

[@Elricky124]

Alex, will you do a 2019 Mazda CX-9 review anytime soon?

[@nhaiminh]

Hi Alex, I just wonder how about the Dodge Durango compares to CX9. I heard that you give many compliments to Durango, so waiting for your review of this car.

[@newbeetle98]

there is a height adjustment 2 layers deep in the infotainment system to change the hud

[@milesfathi]

Alex, 3rd row seat aside, how would you compare this to Nissan Murano? Specially in terms of handling.

[@少爷威威]

May I ask ! How about the 2019 Mazda CX-9 Signature? I’m looking for it ! Is it good? Thanks

[@dhaneshgesota2904]

As usual an awesome review Alex. Can you add details on the safety features of CX-9. Conflictingly, Mazda's feature claim Smart Break Support, and Smart City Break Support in the GT+ variant. However, all reviews I have read (and what dealers are claiming) is that CX-9 GT+ trims only have the Smart City Break Support and NOT the Smart Break Support. Alex, are you aware if both (or only one) of the above features exist?

[@TitanicDreamModels]

Glad to hear that!

[@troyklassen1473]

Great comparative review on this hotly contested segment. As far as the Mazda goes it is a no doubt a good effort, but it has some issues, no panoramic sun roof, the center console is too wide and rubs your leg in the Signature I drove as well as no 2nd row captain seats. Limited USB ports in the back and poor thigh support for a 6'2" person. The new Highlander has all that and then some so it gets my nod.

[@jonathanjackson9208]

I drove a CX-9 when my Sister in Law was shopping for a new Crossover, it was really tight for me in the front. She didn't like it at all and opted for a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe.

[@davids1816]

Alex, did you get the 7.4 second time with premium or regular gas?

[@praenubilus1980]

Please, will you review the 2017 toyota Sienna?

[@mxc0bbn]

Alex, I know this is an old video, but just wondering: Years ago in my 2003 Corvette Z06 the HUD display had a button that would raise or lower where it shows up in the windshield (for taller or shorter drivers). I noticed you mentioned this as an issue in the CX-9. This year of CX-9 does not have a HUD height adjustment? I'm in the market for a '17-'18 and have just started doing research on it so I haven't run across the answer to this question yet. Was hoping you might have...

[@kicksreason]

Best design among all the mainstream SUVs today.

[@paulwklui]

Hi, Alex, love your review of the new Mazda cx-9. I always worry that the turbo is easily overheated by spinning at a very high RPM. Please tell me how the turbo is cool down-- water cool or just air cool ?

[@abdulln1439]

in the CX-9, it is water cooled

[@narangs1234]

when you plan to post full review on mdx 2017

[@don405]

Hi Alex, can you do cx-9 vs durango?

[@tigernight99]

What about the third row air conditioning / ventilation ?

[@davidk6357]

This vehicle was interested short list for us, but not having 3rd row air vents that was a deal breaker. Also rear visibility wasn't the best. We would have liked a panoramic roof option. We had a CX-7 and missed it so we were let down when we looked at it.

[@jamesanderson4014]

DVD infotainment system???

[@jimmybeauxarts]

best SUV design in and out

[@canmtb4676]

Heads up display is adjustable according to your sitting position.

[@ebenezarvethabothagam3931]

does this come with Apple carplay and android auto at least now?

[@jackvanderhyde8828]

Quite the intro. Thought I was about to hear Alvin and his chipmunks. But kidding aside, I think you have the best reviews going. NO BS about big american asses etc., or reviewers that put you to sleep. Thanks Alex.

[@RohanIyer]

Hope this is selling well, Mazda deserves it.

[@drizzlesquad6758]

Can you do a base model

[@theevermind]

Any comments on the AC? I've heard that it's underpowered for this size of vehicle.

[@cubanomx2]

AC is ok. go to mazda247 forum and read posts about that. In the old model, was better.

[@d7mysterio7]

Hello Alex. I would like our opinion on an upcoming purchase. Im looking at the Infiniti QX60, MDX, and the CX-9. If you had to pick one, which would be your top to bottom choices? Thank you for your time.

[@jasona6726]

Don Campbell not alex here lol but I'd go for MDX. The Cx9 is attractive thats it-- IMO there's something about the ride, the engine and the way the MDX puts together. Check it out for yourself

[@chrgav1286]

Don Campbell Does price matters? $58k Full loaded MDX, $55k QX60 & $46k CX-9. You'll get more features with QX & CX. QX has better interior space compare to the two. I'm also looking into MDX, QX & Pilot but not the CX-9 because of Turbo reliability especially with heavy vehicles.

[@cubanomx2]

QX60 and MDX are more expensive by 15 - 20K.

[@matthewyim1736]

Alex, why would Mazda only make an 8-way driver seat even in the top end trims of the CX-9, and not a 10-way driver seat like some of the competitors?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

+Matthew's Car Corner it's all about saving money

[@juanzingarello4005]

Same sentiments I feel about them not using ventilated seats.

[@jth1987leb]

The most attractive in its segment

[@juanzingarello4005]

I wonder how resale holds on these Mazdas. Maybe about the same as Nissans?

[@navajasrs2402]

Alex, are you aware the HUD can be adjusted for height? Drop it all the way down and even tall drivers should be just fine.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

navajas rs that was as far as the HUD would go, that was my point. It adjusts quite far the other direction for shorter drivers

[@MrGonz2012]

Alex when the CX-9 is chosen for you as the best option for a 3 rows, have you considered how important is performance and engine wear for a 4-cylinder to be used as an SUV working under the same driving high performance typically for a 6-cylinder engine?. How durable enough could be a 4-cylinder engine in the medium or long term?. When you buy a SUV it is usually for taking long family trips, driving on snow or mud, even with more than 5 or 6 people inside and luggage in addition as well. What about the reliability and robustness? Perhaps, Honda's or Toyota Highlander a more reliable and solid choice?. I am pretty sure that this question people ask themselves when They look at the Mazda CX9 as an alternative for a SUV. Thanks so much in advance for any response.

[@TitanicDreamModels]

We're still working on final price, but we are doing our very best to make it affordable.

[@jasona6726]

Was this re uploaded?

[@MegaGeorge1948]

Alex, when you tested the CX9, did you use 87 octane or 93 octane gasoline? Your 0-60 times would be different then with the higher horsepower rating on the 93 octane.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

We did not test the 0-60 with regular, our tests were on 91 octane and that's what Mazda provided the car with both at the launch event and in this test vehicle. Both vehicles were notably slower than many V6 options in this segment.

[@nintendoatarikiller]

How about E85?

[@MegaGeorge1948]

TFiPW The CX9 is not a, "flex Fuel" vehicle. E10 is the max. Any more Ethanol will mess up the fuel system.

[@skirmich]

The CX9 is being held back by the archaic 6 Speed Auto, MPGs is also a mix bag.. Mazda says 21/27 but Fuelly reviews says about 18/25. That is a little bit worse or even than the more powerful MDX or Pilot for reference.

[@Ken-jw4xk]

George Travers Testing was done in CA so it probably 87.

[@kareshi2k]

Looks like Mazda got a winner this time. They better advertise this car more.

[@ibrahimalagoz2965]

good

[@Ken-jw4xk]

While comparing the CX9 and the Highlander, both vehicles does not offer CarPlay or Android Auto, so it's shouldn't be a "con" towards the Highlander.

[@omgitsme435]

2017 Acura MDX Con: It's super fugly front end. Interior is very Honda, I don't see it as luxury

[@superdan5617]

Hi Alex, at 3:55 you said you expect fuel economy to drop by 1 mpg for 2017. Why?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

The testing cycle for 2017 changed so many vehicles saw A 1-2 MPG drop for 2017

[@RobertBarth1]

Probably to meet EURO4 emissions standards.

[@Maxwell1989]

Alex on Autos I'm looking forward to seeing the new 2017 Honda CRV touring model can you please review that model

[@Maxwell1989]

Alex on Autos amazing job reviewing your very detailed you should appear on MotorWeek with John Davis

[@al151]

CX 9 is the best looking 3 row suv period.

[@ZetaReticuli_1]

Center console ???

[@divyangsolanki1850]

So you get 227HP with 87 Octane and 250HP with 93 Octane. What if you use 91 Ocatne fuel?

[@coolcashew365]

may i ask why you always ignore nissan pathfinder which falls in the similar segment?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

I don't, however there is not enough time in a video to compare all vehicles so we have to draw a line somewhere.

[@davidball6544]

Alex on Autos Seriously. You spend a lot of time talking about the Pathfinder during the review then leave it out during the comparison. It seems like the CX-9's most direct competitor based on size, price and features. Weird.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Cross shop data shows the Highlander, Pilot, Explorer and Santa Fe are cross shopped more and they also all outsell the Pathfinder.

[@coolcashew365]

ok, thanks Alex

[@py1211]

I think you can fit three 24" cases by putting two at bottom and one on top of them.....just guessing.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

We could not get them to fit and close the hatch. We also don't put bags in places where thy would impact a passenger if there was an accident.

[@py1211]

That's well thought out, I appreciate that.

[@SSS-mp8th]

Only demerits for me on the CX-9 is acceleration and no cooling seats. Option for blu-ray would also be nice but it's not as important as it used to be,

[@mucisibale]

No cooling seats and no steering wheel memory. I'm sure they will add it in 2018 model.

[@itmustbelove08]

SS S cooled seats should be an option on every vehicle

[@BeeeHonest]

2017 audi allroad please!

[@sriontube]

most attractive under 50K. Sure yes. Hated 2017 Acura.

[@utubeviewer2550]

Is it reliable ? easy to maintain ? resale value ? this or the Highlander ??

[@alanexknight9810]

Utube Viewer 90% reliable, Less resale value compared to highlander. Maintain cost might be kind of high. Also both the engines of highlanders and cx 9 are the best. Mazda is more comfortable and does have more tech and style. It's your choice ;) I would take the acura MDX

[@utubeviewer2550]

Thank you. Ill research the three of them to see which one to get :)

[@alanexknight9810]

Utube Viewer The most reliable among these three are Toyota highlander itself. Both Honda and acura have some technical issues. Also welcome ;) Send a message when your going to buy one, Highlander may fit for people like you ;)

[@utubeviewer2550]

Awesome. I'm going today to Toyota dealership to test drive one and we'll see how it goes. I'll get back to you when i decide.

[@JericTamayo]

I'm doing promotions for both, and off the records, I would definitely go with the CX-9 over the Highlander. Unless it's the Hybrid, I haven't driven that one yet. But value wise, CX-9 is the winner.

[@jeffzekas]

What about reliability? Martha has had quite a few stinkers over the years

[@aaronleang]

Not having a V6 makes it unattractive to me. Same with the Mazda 6. A V6 would definitely feel at home in those chassis. But I guess that's the purpose of the existing Skyactiv motors, eliminate the need for a V6.

[@bartiz12]

It has to do with CO2 and other gas emision restrictions in European Union mostly. Mazda is quite small for a car company (look at companies like Toyota / General Motors / VAG Group) yet they had to build from ground up their own engines, chassis etc. They also went different route with gasoline engines, where they increased the compression ratio instead of adding a turbo to small engine. Such research is expensive thing especially for a smaller company which actually has one of the newest car range on market I believe. They also cancelled developing Mazda 3 MPS in order to focus on second generation of Sky-Aktiv engines. I do not know too much about engines but maybe V6 / V8 engines do not like higher compression rates at all? Also even if they make a V6 Sky-Aktiv engine, it would not be applicable for Europe at all. They are not a premium brand.

[@mucisibale]

You shouldn't care about the number of cylinders under the bonnet. Only about performance numbers and gas mileage. These days some turbocharged I-4s are much better than older NA V-6s, in every aspect except sound.

[@272flashlites]

Aaron Chris Leang Mazda has the highest CAFE for a manufacturer without a hybrid. that's why they scraped their V6s. My 2014 Mazda 6 GT isn't the quickest car of the segment by far, but it kills in gas mileage. I commute 140 miles a day and not visiting the gas pump all week is wonderful.

[@aaronleang]

Pretty interesting inputs from you guys. Thanks. Well, the V6 thing is purely just my opinion though haha

[@Tully3674]

Alex - constructive criticism: Always like the videos but at times the last 1/3 of the video gets inundated with facts (too many of them) The layout is OK but at times its just too much information. As in this video, I understand there is an abundance of competition for comparison. But maybe next time, narrow it down to the top 2 or 3 market leaders. I must admit there have been times I fast forward to the last 2 minutes to hear your 'take' (quasi-recommendation) of the vehicle tested. WIith all that said, appreciate the homework you put into each review.

[@SaiRulez1]

Tully3674 Understand and respect your views but that's the very reason Alex's reviews stand out from other car reviewers....it's the attention to details and volume of facts.

[@lalr8888]

Tully3674 disagree, the details Alex provide are great. I love that I get that detail, if you dont want to listen to it just continue to fast forward buddy =)

[@TuxedoMonkey]

i like the front, but not so much the back

[@stephanematis]

Whoa. No patented trunk rating!

[@guptavishwas]

stephane matis 😄

[@moviesmetalmusicmotorvehic4828]

Am I the only one who thinks that the CX-9 should've used an 8 speed Auto for a slightly faster 0-60 score and even better fuel economy?

[@Josh-179]

Yes. Seriously though, this idea of more and more gears...Everyone seems to expect it yet all you see in reviews is complaints about constant gear hunting in a confused transmission. Or reliability issues. All the while, reviewers praise the CX-9's transmission's smoothness and that it changes gears less frequently. Sure, it might make it a half second faster to 60 or get 1 mpg more but I'll take the 6-speed.

[@rickythrower5892]

I agree,more gears more problems,just look at Honda pilot, MDX and Odyssey problems.

[@navajasrs2402]

For what it's worth as an owner for a little over a month, my only real complaint is the god damned center console. It is a complete disaster. I wish the Signature had the option of the dark blue paint and, funny enough, that's what kept me from buying it. Went with the GT just to get the blue. It's an amazing color. Looks black unless the sun hits it.

[@orreng]

Test drove this car. Enjoyed the handling in general, but that black headliner (the only color available according to the salesman) and overall dark interior....very casket like. No way an adult could survive that 3rd row.

[@Josh-179]

Your salesman was wrong, light headliner is available with certain leather options. Also, the CX-9's 3rd row is roomier than half the vehicles in the segment - roomier than top sellers like the Highlander. Mid-size crossovers' 3rd rows generally aren't for adults. You need a full size SUV or minivan.