The 2009 Mazda CX-9 receives updates including Bluetooth phone compatibility for CX-9 Sport, heated seats and outside mirrors for Sport with Power Seat Package and trip computer standard on all trim levels. The CX-9 Grand Touring now includes an auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink and SIRIUS satellite is included in the Moonroof BOSE Audio Package and Rear Seat Entertainment System Package.
Mazda has become especially good at making "zoom-zoom" vehicles, even if they happen to be SUVs.
The latest such Mazda SUV is the sleek midsize CX-9, which is a larger, more powerful 7-passenger companion to Mazda's fairly new 5-passenger CX-7 SUV.
The CX-9 is Mazda's first 7-passenger vehicle, thanks to a third-row seat roomy enough for two adults to ride comfortably for more than short distances. Many midsize SUV builders can't make the same claim for third-row seating comfort.
Some vehicles call for awkward moves to reach the third seat, but the CX-9 has large openings to it. A sliding second-row seat and wide door openings also facilitate third-seat entry or exit.
Too Many SUVs?Are there too many Mazda SUVs for a fading SUV market? The automaker doesn't think so. It says its research shows there is a "distinct difference between customers shopping for two- and three-row SUVs."
Actually, the CX-7 and CX-9 arguably could be considered members of the growing crossover vehicle market, if only because of their slick styling and car-like manners.
The CX-9 is not just a longer version of the CX-7. Each model has different body structures, chassis systems and powertrains.