All-New Mazda CX-9
October 12, 2007 by George Skentzos
Representing Mazda’s first venture into the Australian medium SUV market is the all-new seven seat crossover CX-9.
When the CX-9 goes on sale from December, it will be available in two grades – Classic and Luxury – and is expected to be priced from $50,000.
The previous 3.5-litre V6 engine has been bored to 3.7-litres producing 204kW of power at 6,250rpm and 366Nm at 4,250rpm through a six-speed Activematic gearbox.
An active torque all-wheel drive system automatically adjusts front/rear wheel torque distribution between 100:0 and 50:50.
“We are always looking for ways to improve our Stylish, Insightful and Spirited product. This is why we insisted Australia get the 3.7-litre engine over the 3.5-litre initially launched in the USA last year.” Managing Director for Mazda Australia Doug Dickson
The CX-9 sits on different architecture to the five-seat Mazda CX-7, and is a refreshing change from the boxy SUV’s which crowd the market.
Equipment is surprisingly abundant, most impressively providing an option for either 18 or 20-inch alloy wheels along with air-conditioning (three–zone climate control with independent rear control), cruise control, power windows and mirrors, an in-dash six-disc CD player (MP3 compatible) operated through a touch screen audio system that includes a reversing camera, six airbags and active safety features such as Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Roll Stability Control (RSC).
The 2875mm wheelbase is one of the longest in its class, providing easy access to its three-row seating. There’s ample room for adults and sufficient cargo space to accommodate modern Aussie families.
Cargo space is a practical 267 litres which jumps to 928 litres with the 3rd row seats folded down. Both second and third-row seats fold flat to allow additional storage all the way to the back of the front seats.
“Not only does CX-9 cater to large Australian families, but its stylish looks and high-performance 3.7-litre engine creates an appealing SUV package that is exciting to drive. Simply put, CX-9 delivers practicality with a touch of Zoom-Zoom.”
Australian specification and pricing will be announced at a later date.
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Hmmm, a bit more reserved Santa Fe look at rear and side on. Front on not over the top nice as air intake really huuuuge as and tops of front headlights look to level so whole frontal appearance is slab sided straightish and horizontal (i.e. too bland pedestrian). Still I like but no full on appeal as front devoid of style.
Have to see it in real life to make a judgement, but the front looks immensely bloated with that lower intake. Rear looks good though.
I don’t know what size it is, but if it is similar to the Kluger, it’s far too overpriced.
More than $50,000 will see it sell in very small numbers, I think.
Too pricey for a people mover without the room.
It probably wont be as roomy as a dedicated people mover such as toyota tarago or kia carnival, but compared to other seven seater SUV’s the cx-9 is definitely on of the biggest.
CX-9: Wheelbase(2875mm), Length(5074mm), Width(1936mm)
Kluger: 2790, 4785, 1910
Santa Fe: 2700, 4675, 1890
Territory: 2842, 4856, 1898
It’s even bigger than the prado
Prado: 2790, 4850, 1875
It may not be as roomy as a people mover, but it sure looks a lot better
Gee the Kluger isn’t much smaller than a Prado anymore. Its the same wheelbase, only 70mm shorter and 35mm wider! Any info on the engine? Is it getting the 3.7 we might see in the 2010 Falcon?
I like the exhausts and interior, both very neat. The rear reminds me of the Lexus, and it would be nice if the lower bars were colour-coded.
Expensive, but looks solid.
Baji…
I agree, what other people hauler looks as good?
The power of the 3.7 is in the ballpart of 204KW and 366NM, be nice to see this version of the duratec V6 in falcon, i’m hoping Ford AUS picks the V6 with capable torque outputs.
This Mazda looks good in and out, will outhandle a tarago and carnival.
It’s pricey but look at how much the entry fee is on a V6 tarago, even the 4cyl versions are expensive.
People movers always have been.
What is the point of this vehicle? its obviously not on par with with off road capabilities or with price range.
sort of a sitting duck thats too expensive and cant go far enough off road!
Well I think they look and sound great! They have everything and more in them, they have 7 seats and they look good. I havd a prado at the moment and am hoping to trade it for the mazda in december. I have never taken the Prado off road, and although it is great to drive it is very basic when it comes to extras inside. The reviews in America for the mazda sound terrific.
Really bland jap motor
To be launched anytime now! Can’t wait
Drove one this afternoon (5-12-07). It was smoother, quieter, more powerful and more family friendly than the latest Kluger (which I have also recently driven) and being Japanese will stand the test of time (unlike some Australian built cars I could mention).The Klugers lack of a split fold rear seat turned me off as did the various Toyota dealers attitudes. Mazda’s sales service so far has been far superior to Toyota’s. I liked the space inside and stylish finish. The only issue I had were the tracks in the floor for the rear seats. I can see these filling up fast with sand and other stray items which will make cleaning a little tricky. It’s also hard to justify the extra $7k for the Luxury version. I can’t quite see the value there. Overall it was a very impressive vehicle to look at and to drive. Definitely worth a look.
hi jd
did the lux cx-9 u drove have the rear dvd tv? and also does it have the sat nav as well?
no rear DVD or sat nav. Sat nav is an option available in Jan 2008. I drove one yesterday and have bought it. I think the only direct competitor is Audi Q7 and its a lot drearer. The 7 seats are all very usable and the boot space even in 7 seat mode is fantastic. Kluger (grande) comes with more options but the 2 row removable centre is crap if you have 3+ kids. CX-9 also has split 3rd row which most of the others don’t.
I have been waiting for the cx9 to test drive all yr and now it is here it seems to have alot less than the US model. Does it have the auto tailgate? and not Sat Nav or DVD. It seemed like great value with all the above but not sure without!!!!!
Alright so who ended up buying one?
MikeB
May i ask what is ur driveaway price? Std or Lux?
How’s is the fuel comsumption on this thing? Appreciate if anyone can suggestion or give real stats. Thanks.