Is the 2021 Mazda CX-9 Signature a better SUV than a Toyota Highlander?

[@LTX-Shep]

No BS, Lori does do great camera work. No herky-jerky shots and she always goes to where my eyes want to go. Thanks.

[@terence4427]

My wife and I have no children but we yet bought a 2020 Mazda CX-9 last year. It's the most comfortable and best driving vehicle we have ever own. Don't buy one if you need a true third row - I think it's bit too small for a large family. However, if you are a family of 4 or fewer people, it's the perfect car. BTW, I powder coated the wheels black and it looks very high end. I get lots of questions about it.

[@mrmm7322]

This is one of the best suv 🚙 on planet and what’s even better it’s made in Japan 🇯🇵 great 👍 quality and good family SUV

[@Dxrox777]

You own one?

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for letting me share it with you!

[@RaitisRides]

@@Dxrox777 Good question!

[@mrmm7322]

@@Dxrox777 I don’t but my sister does 2019 and I had 2012 Mazda 3 and now I have 2020 Mazda 3 gt Mazda is a great 👍 quality product and fun to drive very reliable Thanks

[@baohoaily]

This is a rare find. I assumed all of their stuff was hecho en Mexico. Of course Toyota/Lexus hasn't taken a huge hit from making vehicles over here for a long time now (Canada/USA) ... But I'd consider made in Japan to be a selling feature still. Plus 1.

[@johndemotto]

Hey Joe. I’ve been watching all your reviews, especially for this SUV segment. Originally I was interested in the Telluride, but no way I was paying Kia’s outrageous “market adjustment.” When car shopping became a necessity after my car was wrecked beyond repair, I decided on the 2021 CX-9 Touring w/premium package and that was the best decision I’ve ever made! For a single guy, it’s a great commuter and perfect for friends night out. The compliments I get are just too much to list! Appreciate all the hard work you and Lori put in

[@justincase2830]

John, do you know the difference between the two trims? thanks!

[@johndemotto]

@@justincase2830 I’ll try to keep it as short and sweet as possible. Touring is a 7 seater, FWD with optional AWD, synthetic leather, standard sound system with apple/android play, front heated seats, power liftgate. The premium package is an extra $2K, well worth it in my opinion. It replaces the center row bench with 2 captain chairs, which now makes it a 6 seater. It also adds fog lights, extra usb ports, a wireless charger, power moonroof. The biggest difference and swayer for me is the upgraded sound system to a 12 speaker Bose. That’s some amazing sound! The Signature has all the bells and whistles that Joe talked about. Also Sig is AWD only. Price difference from Touring to Signature is about $8-10K. Hopefully that helps and that I didn’t bore you too much

[@justincase2830]

@@johndemotto Excellent explanation John and thank you for your time spent. I am researching the auto market in the macro sense and am trying to hold off on buying anything until I get done waffling on what I would like to drive without a bunch of headaches.So far the prices are giving me one and most likely won't get any better.I don't know the warranty on the Mazda, but that three year maintenance free on a couple of Korean models is nice also. As far as looks go, Mazda-CX-9 wins.

[@sgomez3047]

Just John, we have the 19 AWD signature CX-9 and we couldn't ask for a better vehicle! It serves us well without the oversize bulk. Plenty of power and an joy to drive! Enjoy urs !

[@stevec9150]

Hey Joe, I just bought a 2022 CX-9. I've spent time in the Palisade and I had an older Highlander. There is nothing wrong with those. However, if driving feel is important, the CX-9 is the best. Nimble, great steering and I feel no turbo lag. This is the road trip car! As for the Entertainment Unit, I love the wheel and buttons. Hated it the first week, but once you get used to it, its very easy and lets you keep your eyes on the road. No touch screens for me. Thanks for all the great reviews!

[@DJThump_her]

I remember the RX-7 commercials as a kid. It was the 1st car fell in love with! Made me want to be a race car driver growing up. Thanks for bringing up some great memories Joe!

[@robmoore7378]

I wanted the 93 model as a senior in high school but djed so I got something bigger lol.

[@2W3X4YZ5]

Great review. My 2016 just turned 60k miles, and has been perfect. Have a good one.

[@ForgotToMentionThat]

This Mutha has me watching cars I never intend to buy...Good show man!

[@rixxy9204]

I love my CX-9, I have the same colors as the video. It's beautiful, and it's sad they don't sell it anymore an they moved to the CX-90 for much higher price. What _sold me_ on this SUV was the *handling* , it's smooth and it feels like you're driving a floating apartment due to all the vehicle's amazing interior features.

[@jeffinza4563]

Mazda really brings the fun of driving directly to person at the wheel. Bought a Mazda 3 with the 2.3 engine straight off the showroom floor back in 2007. Had it for 13 years, fun to drive, reliable too.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for sharing that great input and perspective from your experience Jeff!

[@roygodine37]

My neighbor has this Mazda and every time I see it I think what a great looking suv! I love this thing.

[@Abel.Nevarez]

Never thought of purchasing a Mazda or even driving one but I just purchased a 2021 Mazda CX-9 GT model and absolutely love it. It has more than I wanted in a car plus that inline 4 turbo engine feels great and helps with gas prices. Thanks for your videos.

[@kevinW826]

If I had the money, yes I would get this. I have test driven the CX9 twice and my opinion of it never changes.

[@wisamputrus6196]

Just purchased one 10 days ago and love everything about the car. I’ve been a Toyota loyal customer for over 30 years and didn’t think I will ever switch, but I finally did. What a change in the driving dynamics, well well worth it. And, Joe I agree with your response when I asked you to compare the 2021 Highlander and CX9. I highly advise people looking to purchase a mid size SUV to test drive the CX9 before committing to other vehicles.

[@paulp.6399]

You chose wisely!

[@wisamputrus6196]

Thank you...

[@JessicusMaxiumus]

Would it be good for a small family of 3? We have a Mazda 3 but too small to fit all of baby’s items like her stroller

[@wisamputrus6196]

@@JessicusMaxiumus Yes it can if cold the 3rd row….check out at a dealer

[@IMGROWN3232]

Love that CX-9 treasure box tip....Im a second grade teacher and your inner teacher is showing!

[@cuuppaajoe]

This is still the nicest looking 3-row! Thanks Joe, love your videos.

[@Striker50_]

On the throne right now. Raitis rides sends notification, I watch. 👌

[@wbwayne8887]

The 💩ter is always a great time for Raiti's Rides.

[@RaitisRides]

I am glad that I can share those special moments with you! LOL

[@RaitisRides]

@@wbwayne8887 LOL!

[@JulezWinnfield]

Still on there?🤭🤭

[@riser5013]

Bro same, always gotta watch Raiti’s rides when I’ve gotta go

[@razvandobos9759]

This is the modern Mazda I'd get in a heartbeat. Aside from the exposed touchscreen, everything about this car is wonderful.

[@alexandrecharbonneau5707]

there is even cup holders on the engine block to keep coffee warm.... they thought of everything.

[@jax1079]

Love Mazda! Love what they're doing and what they stand for. Always want Mazda to win. Great video, man. Hit me up if you're ever in the ATL. 👍🏻

[@robertb.4202]

My wife loves her 2018 CX-9. Such an underrated SUV!

[@jordanking9926]

In Australia the Signature is called the Azami LE, interestingly the 2nd row captain seats in the Australian version are fully electric 4 way which are also heated and ventilated. Just purchased one

[@Orangeman96]

Just leased a 2021 AWD Mazda CX 9 Grand Touring after watching Raitis Rides!!! Headed to the store for 30 boxes of twinkies!!! Great review, can’t wait to take the CX9 on some on throttles!!!!

[@peterhadfield9840]

Loving the Mazda way these days!

[@thevietnamproject4151]

Love you, im one of the first 30.000 , feel you cause im italian and your vibes are really close to ours but please just one thing, to all the Cars KZbinrs , stop complaining about fake vents because you are not designers and those fake things are still making cars really attractive . You should stop looking at those things as a performace desing but just as pure design to shake your soul and not to perform a better “lap”! Peace from an Italian in Iceland and keep doing what you do man casue is great

[@charlesngwaba6836]

I HAVE A MAZDA CX9 2018 MODEL AND IS A TOUCH SCREEN WHEN YOU WHEN YOU ARE PARKED BUT ITS NOT WHEN YOU ENGAGE THE VEHICLE

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for sharing that!

[@minhdo453]

Salesman: so it has 250 Hp and very luxurious interior Joe’s viewer: so how many kitkat can you fit in the glove box and how many people can you share?

[@ramoncarter6585]

I love Toyota lately Mazda been on my mind. The Highlander is a really beautiful truck rather get CX-9 feels more luxury better driving experience and feel more the zoom zoom guy.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Ramon for that!

[@MeliorIlle]

Neither of these are trucks...

[@Alawadhi_53]

MAZDA all the way thanks Joe 😍🔥🔥

[@RaitisRides]

You are so very welcome Anwar!

[@vivash2785]

purchased this last week and absolutely love it.... thanks for an amazing review

[@mr.m7861]

Love your Channel, Joe. Thorough reviews, entertaining commentary, and a wide variety of vehicles. Awesome stuff!

[@danschubring7957]

One “zonk” Joe: I’ve had a pano sunroof which always rattled. The CX9 could be a suitable rival to the RX350. It needs a power tilt and telescope steering wheel with memory, and, and power exit front seat with memory. Not all of us need huge cargo capacity. Reliable, great ride, easy step in, and a bit of style. Thanks, Joe “alright guys”...

[@thegreatest6813]

Great job Joe, love this SUV.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Colby!

[@thegreatest6813]

@@RaitisRides your welcome

[@garykang1948]

Im a recently divorced dad of 3, traded in my 2020 2.0 accord 6 speed for a 2021 gt cx9 here in canada. I love it, feels like im driving a car, especially when put in manual mode feels like im driving stick. 99.9 of the times the 3rd row is down, test drove telluride, pilot, venza, rav4 tbey could not hold a candle to the cx9. Driving dynamics are excellent and for the price its an excellent value. Was considering the audi q5 but with all the features that tbe cx9 has would have came out close to 75g canadian for 55g canadian you can get the gt cx9. Not even the new mdx has ventilated seats or heads up display. And to tell you tbe truth it seems like acura copied the cx9 exterior and made it aggressive.

[@LS1007]

I think the Mazda is better looking inside and out than the Highlander. I wouldn’t get the light colored interior though. Thanks for sharing it Joe. Nice review as always and well done Lori!! 👍🏻👍🏻🇺🇸

[@RaitisRides]

Excellent points as always Larry!

[@morrisf3957]

Interior nice as a BMW drives like a dream.

[@RaitisRides]

I agree with you!

[@JavierGonzalez-ss1sg]

@Benjamin Mathew I thought Mazda has very high reliability ratings. Or is it model specific

[@adam145]

@Benjamin Mathew Dude even germans admmit that BMW is not reliable out of warranty.

[@razvandobos9759]

This SUV is soooo underrated. Has many quirks most don't realize.

[@xJayhawkFANx]

What quirks do you mean?

[@davidzheng2119]

What about the features?

[@Skippyflapjacks]

Quirks? Or perks?

[@foofstarr4856]

He stole quirks from Dougy dug doug

[@danielgoldberg2129]

I just picked up my 2021 Limited Palisade, hyper white/beige, but I’m still watching Raiti’s Rides! 😆

[@wbwayne8887]

We have a 2020 Palisade SEL, also in hyper white. 20K trouble free miles and a great suv so far. Enjoy yours.

[@RaitisRides]

Congrats! Great choice for an SUV! Thanks for coming back for more!

[@mrees5170]

Mazda has it going on. Got my son a cx30. Loves it. Thanks Joe and Lori.

[@staceetownsend3947]

If you love to drive Mazda gives you all you need!

[@burakaskin27]

more than you need its really good car

[@DaveDVideoMaker]

I'm looking forward to Mazda's new inline six engine. Hopefully it'll come with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

[@tylerhorton8537]

Mazda 2jz swap Mazda 6

[@RaitisRides]

Same here Dave!

[@SirLongfootBigNose]

Genuinely enjoy watching and listing to the expert car guru from Florida😁

[@aram430]

They are putting that engine in all their lineups maybe put it in the Miata?

[@TheLoanshark08]

Aside from the non touch screen infotainment system (which might be better in the long run lol) Mazda is really underrated... they have really stepped it up lately.

[@wess7831]

You can use 87 octane if you wish per Mazda. Mine ran fine on it.

[@East17A]

what a nice SUV man !! thanks for review it. its kind of expensive . but honestly i think its worth it .Panoramic roof in my opinion not important. i think they made it better all over . if I can afford it would really my first and best choice to buy . something exceptional about it .

[@firebird890]

ABSOLUTELY BETTER than a Highlander! Simply on handling and looks alone! Plus the interior is absolutely beautiful!

[@mdaniel444]

Great video as usual! I'm loving the direction mazda is going. Can't wait for the rwd and inline 6 platforms!

[@porfiriato84]

I wish Mazda would design a new model similar to the Kia stinger. Maybe not as expensive and with similar performance specs. As much as I like the 3 hatch turbo...it just can't compete w higher end cars.

[@niloelchocho767]

I love how this guy does his job and make it so fun 🤩

[@wbwayne8887]

Joe, actually premium fuel is only required to get the full 250hp, 87 octane gives you only 227hp. Premium is not required by Mazda though. Torque levels stay the same on both fuel grades. Unless this has recently changed that is.

[@RaitisRides]

This is true!

[@billbigshlong382]

And if you fill up with 91, you’ll get somewhere between 250 and 227, according to Mazda’s Dave Coleman.

[@wbwayne8887]

@@billbigshlong382 Also true, and the highest octane rating in my locality.

[@burakaskin27]

i always use 87 thats mazda dont worry and engine is really powerfull and fun to drive my advice cx9 with bose ;) amazing sound

[@robisudol]

Thanks for sharing the incredible Mazda story joe and (champ)Lori - so impressive and exciting! Great work guys! 🙂 👍 And I hope Mazda continues their tradition of innovation and hard work with hot, “green-energy” technologies in future releases!

[@tedunguent156]

Hey, what would a car review be without a little sarcasm? I won't zonk you for that. Great job, as usual. I like this car a lot.

[@petertamburro6578]

My company car is a 2018 signature. It’s an overachiever that for some reason doesn’t sell well. My wife has an Cadillac XT5 and the Mazda out handles it in a big way. I just turned 70k miles and had zero issues. I’ll be getting a new car soon and even with all the other options I may end up with another.

[@DiyaaMo]

As a family father i will go for Mazda cx9 or Toyota highlander, that’s the best choices. Thanks 🙏 for your review ❤️🙏❤️💪

[@pony0110]

just bought a 2021 cx9 Grand Tourning for the wife. really really really nice. dig it

[@promig9468]

Pick my 2021.5 red one up in two days! Can't wait..great review! Greetings from Canada 🇨🇦

[@RaitisRides]

That is wonderful news! Congrats!

[@johnt.starkey6421]

Yes this is a winner too. I do believe its a great value and being a Mazda owner its a great choice even at 50 G's thks for reviewing this model.

[@CarShark]

Great video Joe 👍👍 keep up the great work man! Congratulations on your new Camaro ZL1 1LE that thing is a beast 💯

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks man! That really means a lot!

[@yes8032]

Why am I so in love whit this 3 row SUV

[@blairbrown4812]

I don't know about you,but it certainly doesn't look like your typical three-row SUV.

[@RaitisRides]

I know how you feel!

[@RaitisRides]

@@blairbrown4812 This is true!

[@njswampfox474]

Has style and is fun to drive.

[@ryzenx5279]

THE BEST CAR REVIEWER. you review every feature

[@austinsun4988]

I love your humor. First came across your video when I was shopping for a Mercedes Benz. Now I come back for more even though am not in the market for another vehicle. But damn awesome reviews. Lol

[@harrybosch8972]

This dude is a great reviewer.

[@RK-hv2dh]

Only downside I see is how loud the engine noise inside the cabin! Otherwise it’s awesome 👏🏽

[@RaitisRides]

Good call on that one.

[@adriandenson8855]

Early squad where you at ? 4 minutes!

[@RaitisRides]

You are awesome Adrian! Thanks for making it!

[@peterjordan2738]

Here is the deal Joe. Mazda appears to be going upscale to compete with some of the "bigger boys" like Lexus. And that means one thing for sure....a much higher price tag for sure. So all you folks considering Mazda, better buy in the next year or two before prices go up.

[@Lucky-ov6kp]

I actually own a 2017 cx9 and that space you wanted to Dremel is actually open I'm my car

[@johnjairovilla3055]

good job bro... can't show this toy better than that, congrats, this is the one that i going to buy!

[@dylanlaurie1206]

The rear A/C does have extra vents. The vents are on the floor lol 😂

[@THEVWAUDIELECTRICGUY]

Joe. Look. Finally A FRAMELESS DIMMING MIRROR. FINALLY. THANK YOU ZOOM ZOOM

[@RaitisRides]

It's a Christmas Miracle!

[@thinkabout602]

Mazda means quality to me. Sharp car 👍

[@RaitisRides]

I totally agree with you!

[@derrickcarpenter5705]

#NOPE!! @21:25 LOL! Thanks for another entertaining and informative review! I've been watching your channel since 2019 and love it! Thanks to Lori, and the other guys you've had on here (Tom and Vic) for all of their excellent camera work. I am a fan. Joe, I think the bottom spoke on some of Mazda's steering wheels is filled-in for the heated feature. I guess, that's where they put the wiring for it. I have a 2018 Mazda3 GT 6MT with the Premium Pack and a heated wheel, and my bottom spoke is filled-in. You did a review on the 2018 Mazda3 GT 5-door that didn't have the heated wheel, and the bottom spoke was hollow. Hope this helps. Thanks, again!

[@alaskaaudioguy35]

Don’t have to use premium actually that’s just for if you want more power they recommend regular

[@hitwondatalkditingdem]

This suv rocks lori ur working hard keep it up dont stop

[@wbwayne8887]

Yes, yes, and yes. CX-9 for the win.

[@RaitisRides]

I agree with you Wayne!

[@juan.alvrdo]

@@RaitisRides do you also believe blue lives matter is a distraction from BLM??? *look at wayne’s pp*

[@jackryder6732]

Wish they can make this exact suv on EV. This one is not good on gas. Its amazing on handing and quietness.

[@robescano9095]

Good afternoon joe this suv is one of the best to me so elegant interior great suspension excellent tecnología be safe and blessed day from New Jersey

[@robertzoch122]

This made my short list. Beautiful car, good value, nice ride. Wish they’d kept the touchscreen. Got a great deal on an XT6, otherwise I might’ve taken this instead.

[@wisamputrus6196]

Mazda is all about safety, touch screen can be a distraction for the driver. Trust me the knob is safer and user friendly.

[@ddischiave]

I've researched all the 3 row SUVs and conducted two long test drives for each of them. While the spec sheets with all the dimensions were helpful, they weren't as material as I thought they'd be when you actually get inside the vehicle. What swayed me more were the comments from the SUV forums. Where the owners give their actual experiences. I think the key to buying a car is determining which of the criteria (driving dynamics, reliability, looks/styling, comfort, fuel economy etc) is most important to you, then finding which of these vehicles is the best for you and your family. For me driving dynamics was number one followed by reliability, so we pulled the trigger on a '21 SUV.

[@kathlynterry8196]

I’d be interested in what you purchased. I’ve been looking for the same criteria as well. I want fun to drive and reliable and lots of safety stuff.

[@bubblegumturtle213]

Cliff hanger man !! Let us know what you got

[@promig9468]

Thanks so much...cheers from Canada..my next ride!

[@RaitisRides]

You are so very welcome my frined!

[@lewisetheridge]

Such a gorgeous looking car and another great review as normal

[@harisqureshi7469]

Mazda’s are pretty nice cars. Great video Joe.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Haris!

[@freeravenadventures6925]

I had a red 1991 Mazda RX-7 coupe in the early 2000s... such a cool little fun sports car. Regret getting rid of it. Got a Mazda 6 a few years later to keep the Zoom-Zoom spirit alive

[@dygardion9130]

I really think this is one of the best looking in the segment and I’m a Toyota Loyalist But that being said I’d go Toyota simply on reliability. That’s huge in my book

[@daviddeleon241]

Mazda is rated number one in reliability by CE

[@dygardion9130]

@@daviddeleon241 LMAO ok we will see in 10 years

[@daviddeleon241]

Why you mad? Because Toyota makes cheap boring cars?

[@dygardion9130]

@@daviddeleon241 I’m mad? Alrighty then lol

[@quickreliefplumbing]

Don't like panoramic sun roofs. My wife's ford edge with only 55k miles needed to be replaced. 20k to replace it. Luckily she had a warranty. I'll take the regular sun roof everytime. Had one on almost every car and never had a problem.

[@RaitisRides]

Very understandable.

[@fluffyres6107]

Mazda over the Korean Brands!

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this one.

[@wp65th50]

Genesis：how dare u

[@fluffyres6107]

@Lime Life yessir!

[@harrybosch8972]

You are absolutely 1000% accurate. Koreans use cheap parts... Sorry Korean car owners. Been in the industry for 25years.

[@yeulakho6574]

Any day😄

[@michelgerard4139]

Besides the lack of performance, the infotainment not being a touch screen, and maybe no panoramic roof... the interior and exterior are good along with a not too bad price point. Nice video JOE and Lori

[@mudassartai4936]

No went in 3rd row sucks. Like Raitis Videos

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks my friend!

[@TheINVG]

Mazda is doing really great their products,,, nice interior and good looking models

[@sgomez3047]

4:03. 😅 well stated my man! On a different note,, We love our 19 AWD CX-9

[@RaitisRides]

That is so great to hear!

[@Dulitzlives]

Nice car but the hidden cargo behind the 3rd row is not deep enough to be truly functional past the twinkies.

[@RaitisRides]

I totally can understand where you are coming from!

[@ajmedeiros77]

Yes it’s more fun, engaging, and sporty. Beautiful interior, but for long term reliability Toyota wins. I’d probably take the Mazda still though.

[@mystictk4149]

The CX-9 is a great looking SUV.

[@nathanng8130]

This one can store tons of twinkies!

[@RaitisRides]

You know it!

[@LESTER7L1]

Joe and Lori( YOUR MAJESTY QUEEN Lori Thanks for all you do!)This vehicle is tremendous! All I can say is ZOOM ZOOM!!! Ride on! I will see you guys on another ride!

[@robertpatterson7182]

Just to correct you this motor does not require premium fuel.

[@GuuiYae]

Better than Highlander? No. Looks better? Yes.

[@terrellratliff2229]

That car Go Hard 💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯

[@lunchmeatsandwich592]

I love that the important stuff was, but how many kit-kats can we put in here! =)

[@osawagedk]

Forgot to mention the LED grill on the Signature but Raiti did it again, what would we do without you.

[@Mikey-jn3sq]

I liked the fact that he said at 6:47 Your going to have to use premium gas when filling up .I found out the hard way .When I started experiencing a lot of problems .With The performance of the car . Stalling out , and a drop in power , and a huge consumption in oil between oil changes In my Mazda 6 . All the problem went away when I started using only premium gas , and the car performs very well .Shame on Mazda for not telling me about all the problems . I could have if I dont use premium gas ,and a big thank you .Goes out to my brother from a different mother, who simply told the truth , about the Mazda brands , so people can enjoy their cars as I do (zoom zoom) .

[@njswampfox474]

I've used it with regular gas only and haven't had any of your enumerated problems.