Crossover SUV 2009 Mazda CX-9

Pros
* Handling
* Instruments/controls
* Passenger and cargo room

Cons
* Fuel economy
* Rear visibility

Vehicle Highlights
The 2009 Mazda CX-9 is largely unchanged. This crossover SUV seats up to seven and shares some of its basic design with the Ford Edge. CX-9 comes in Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring trim levels. All are available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The sole powertrain teams a 273-hp 3.7-liter V6 engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Maximum towing capacity is 3500 lb. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Seating includes folding benches; the 2nd row splits 60/40, the 3rd row 50/50. The 2nd-row seat reclines and slides fore and aft to favor passenger or cargo space. Tri-zone climate control and a tilt and telescopic steering wheel are standard on all models, as is a wireless cell-phone link. Tourings add leather upholstery and heated power front seats. Grand Tourings include blind-spot alert, xenon headlights, and 20-inch wheels vs 18s. A sunroof and DVD entertainment are optional. A navigation system is optional on Touring and Grand Touring.

COMPETITION
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to eight-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buy choices are the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, GMC Acadia, Mazda CX-9, and Saturn Outlook. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Toyota Highlander.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Traverse, Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Kia Borrego, Nissan Murano, and Toyota Venza. The Hummer H3 adds a crew-cab pickup truck bodystyle for 2009, while the Dodge Durango adds a gas/electric hybrid model.