2008 Mazda CX-9 preview
November 23, 2007 by Matt Brogan
Next month will see the release of the Mazda’s much anticipated CX-9. Sharing similar styling to that of its little brother, the CX-7, this mid-sized SUV is a more refined, sleek and less boxy SUV than its direct competitors.
Targeted at the likes of Tribeca, Kluger, Territory and Captiva, the CX-9 is powered by Mazda’s all new 3.7 litre V6 (producing 204kW & 366Nm) promising it will be no slouch in the performance stakes. Fuel economy is expected to be 13.5 litres / 100km combined (US model results).
Delivering this power will be via an Activematic six-speed (auto) transmission which utilizes Mazda’s Active Torque Split AWD system to put power to the ground at up to a 50:50 drive ratio (as required). Stability Control comes standard.
An insightful interior featuring modular seating, tri-zone climate control, six airbags, reverse camera and touch screen audio controls are just the beginning of a package which is sure to prove popular.
Couple these with class leading cargo space, generous seating dimensions, unparalleled flexibility and superb styling, the CX-7 takes a fresh approach to the SUV market and is sure to raise a few eyebrows.
Outside the styling is typical Mazda. Smooth, modern, and fresh with no hard edges or horrid overhangs. The base model rides on smart 18″ alloys whilst the Luxury spec picks up a set of 20 inchers adding an assertive stance to what’s already an attractive and classy exterior.
The CX-9 goes on sale from December and will be available in two grades Classic and Luxury. At this stage pricing is unconfirmed, though expect to pay upward of $50,000.
Print it: 
Mazda are really on a styling roll at the moment, there really isn’t a car in their range that looks bad.
I agree Scott. Now that the old 2 has gone, their whole line-up is brilliant. Can’t wait for the new 6 either.
I agree, the Mazdas all look great at the moment.
This one’s pretty thirsty – V6 petrols are a bit of an ugly duckling in today’s market – 10 years ago they were fine.
Test on CX7……..
Waiting, waiting, waiting……
Cheers
F-0
Agree with all above comments :) I’d much rather drive this than a V6 tarago…
The Tribute is still in the lineup and thats pretty ugly, Mazda should be updated soon… but other then that, a pretty solid lineup.
i like it… looking a little Audi Q7 from the rear.
Another winner for Mazda as the line up is now complete.
Myke: The Tribute has been dropped so what ones are left are old stock. The CX7 will hold up the lower end of the SUV market but its not as rugged like the Tribute was.
I have a 2 Genki on order for delivery Jan 08 which I can’t wait.
The 3.7ltr V6 in a big vehicle like this is required as the turbo 4 would struggle.
The CX9 on demension is larger than a Territory so bring on the road test.
Which part of the tribute was rugged?
Other than the styling……
maybe you meant ragged :)
I think Dave meant rugged (rug-id) as in the Tribute had a better off-road ability in comparsion to the CX-7.
Does Mazda have any direct replacement for the Tribute? perhaps the CX-5? :D
Great styling (a bit of Q7, a bit of Cayenne), array of cutting-edge tech included (Blind spot monitoring, touch screen Audio) which you dont find on Kluger, Territory; at least not as standard, 3rd row seats that are actually made for adults (unlike Kluger’s and Territory’s kids/midgets-only 3rd row). Priced from the “low 50’s”. I cannot imagine why the CX-9 is not going to sell quick.
hi
i m in a market to buy a new suv.Either Kluger Grande or new Mazda CX9 luxury.would anyone tell me which on is better car to buy?any idea and oppinion will be appreciated.
thank lots.
Hi Robert. Critical consensus appears to be with the Mazda. Your kids (assuming you have kids because of the purchase type) will have no hesitation telling you which is coolest.
Luckily, coolest is also the best. For further insight, read the current issue of WHEELS, as well as their CAr of the Year issue.