Model watch: Mazda CX-9

The car has been given the mildest of styling tweaks, while adding an upgraded infotainment system and new electronic safety features.

The basics remain the same: it’s a two-tonne SUV powered by a 3.7 litre engine putting out 204kW of power and 367Nm of torque.

Buyers can choose from a selection of front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models. The cheaper front-wheel-drive variants have claimed fuel use of 11.0L/100km, while all-wheel-drive models use 11.2L.

Mazda sells the CX-9 in three specification levels.

The base Classic model is only available in front-wheel drive, priced at $44,525 (up $100). It gains a USB input, Bluetooth phone and audio streaming, and retains its reversing camera, tri-zone climate control and 18-inch wheels. Six-speed auto is standard.

The next spec-level up is the Luxury FWD, priced at $52,980 (up $1255). It gets satellite navigation, 20-inch wheels, sunroof, Bose stereo with 10 speakers and electric and heated front seats. The all-wheel-drive Luxury version is $57,480 (up $1255).

The flagship Grand Touring AWD is now $63,828 (up $2223), and it gains a bunch of safety gear from Mazda’s new i-ActiveSense system, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision alert, and lane departure warning.

Other standard niceties include bi-xenon headlights, LED daytime running lights, electric tailgate with remote opening and closing, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, rear parking sensors and smart key with push button start.

Fast Facts

What is it? Mazda’s biggest and most expensive car - the seven-seat CX-9.

What’s new? The lights, bumpers and interior gadgets. In an industry loaded with hyperbole, even Mazda calls this update “a mild facelift”.

What’s missing? It’s a big, thirsty car and Mazda’s Skyactiv fuel-saving technology is sadly not available on the car that needs it most. You also can’t have the CX-9 with a diesel or four-cylinder engines.