Not A Parent Trap: 2016 Mazda CX-9 Signature

"Andrew T. Maness" (theroadlessdriven) 06/24/2016 at 12:30 • Filed to: Mazda CX-9, First Drive, Andrew Maness, The Road Less Driven, Review, Crossover

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I was framing up a postcard shot of the Golden Gate Bridge, and then somebody parked a new Mazda CX-9 right in my shot. Jerks.

I’ve heard it time and time again, “X-Crossover isn’t vehicular punishment”. It’s a statement that is as profoundly annoying as it is painfully stupid. The whole concept of a crossover is to pair the drivability of a car with the functionality of an SUV, and if that’s akin to vehicular punishment, then based of crossover sales, a disproportionate number of Americans are into motorized sado masochism. Frankly this wouldn’t surprise me in the least, how else do you explain people who willingly buy a SAAB?

For those that don’t enjoy the thrill of not knowing for sure if your car will make it home on any given day, or remain comfortable in any environment, may I humbly suggest you consider a 2016 Mazda CX-9 for your garage.

( Full Disclosure : Mazda wanted me to drive the new CX-9 so badly that they flew me from LA to SF on a jet...a jet was owned by Delta that had a bunch of other people on it. They put a roof over my head for two nights and offered sustenance in the form of donuts, fried oysters and whiskey. Mazda is A-ok in my book. )

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If the naysayers are to be believed, driving a crossover, particularly a 3-row crossover, means you’ve somehow settled instead of living your best life. You could be driving a pre-owned Cayman S on your road trips, all you have to do is pack light and leave your kids at home. Better yet, put your kids up for adoption, or go back in time and don’t have them at all. Anything to avoid the severe failure that is driving a 3-row crossover right?

I understand that that by in large, the offerings in this segment aren’t the prettiest vehicles, and they’re not currently, nor will they ever be special, no matter how many option boxes are ticked in order to add sportiness. Convincing the public otherwise would be the greatest trick the automotive industry has ever pulled if it wasn’t for the whole luxury truck thing.

However, not every company is looking to pull one over on consumers. There are still a few manufacturers that genuinely care about building quality vehicles that are accessible to everyone, and from the moment you get into a 2016 CX-9, it’s obvious that Mazda is one of those brands.

Again, there I was minding my own business, getting a shot of a interesting building, and some maroon parks another CX-9 right in front of me!

As an unmarried 30 year old automotive enthusaist with no dogs, or children, I’m hardly the type of person that needs a CX-9. I consider myself very fortunate to be able to get by with a two door sports car as my daily driver, though I’m not foolish enough to think that this lifestyle will last.

I know a day will come when I need a more functional vehicle, and when it does I’d be lying if I said I wouldn’t at least consider a CX-9. Would I love to be the cool dad who drives an E63 AMG Estate or CTS-V Wagon? Absofrigginloutely , but I know myself, and there’s no way I’d be 100% responsible, 100% of the time, and when you have kids in the car, that’s a requirement.

So, what’s an automotive enthusaist who wants to be a good parent, and still retain some street cred to do? Turn to a manufacturer that has consistently put driving dynamics ahead of raw power for years.

Ok, this time I was trying to take a picture of the CX-9 and then this doggo wandered into the shot.

There is a-lot to like about the new CX-9, more than I could have possibly anticipated. The main reason I was interested in being part of this press launch was because I wanted to see what the deal was with Mazda’s new 2.5-litre Skyactiv-G turbocharged engine. I’m one of those poor saps who still holds out hope that Mazda will bring the Mazdaspeed 3 back to life, not because I desperately want to own one, but because I want the WRX/STI to have some competition so Subaru will actually try instead of phoning it in like they’ve been doing for, well, far too long.

In this application, the boosted 4-cylinder power plant makes 250-horsepower at 5000 rpm(with 93 octane, 227-horsepower on 87), and 310 lb-ft of torque at 2,000 rpm. All that twist down low, paired with a 198-lb weight reduction from the outgoing model, makes the new CX-9 a rather capable corner carver, as I found out firsthand on coastal roads north of San Francisco.

Will the average driver be frequently flirting with the limits of the vehicle? Unlikely, especially if they’re using it for the intended purposes of hauling people and cargo. However, on the off chance that you want to get home in a hurry after dropping the kids of at school, because you have to “ drop the kids off at the pool ”, the CX-9 is up to the task.

If Mazda were to stick a variation of this engine in the rest of their products there would be no doubt as to what the best option in each segment they compete in would be. The CX-5 , 3 , and 6 are excellent vehicles as it stands, but with a torquey, fuel efficient, turbocharged mill under the hood, I know they’d be outstanding.

Though I was thoroughly impressed by the athleticism of the CX-9, it was the refinement of the interior that really stood out the most. Granted, I spent all of my time in a fully loaded vehicle, but the interior architecture is the same no matter the trim, and it’s excellent.

Everywhere you expect to find a plug for your wicked smaht devices, there’s a plug, two in the second row armrest on GT, Touring, and Signature models in fact. Third row occupants will have to reach back to use the 12V outlet in the rear cargo area, or beg for a cord to be passed through from the second row, but who cares about them anyway? They’re sitting in the third row, that’s basically steerage.

Back up in first class, there’s nice stuff to touch everywhere, including real rosewood supplied by Japanese guitar maker Fujigen, aluminum trim, and Auburn colored Nappa leather. Soft white LED accent lighting around the center console is a nice touch to a piece that really ties the space together. If there is one thing I can point to that makes the CX-9 interior feel like that of a way more expensive vehicle, it would be the center console.

Because I’m mildly OCD I kept running my hand along this double stitching.

By now I’m sure you’re wondering about the infotainment and safety systems in the CX-9, and you should be, after all, this is a family oriented vehicle. The Signature model I drove came with i-ACTIVSENSE, which provides a radar based adaptive cruise control system, blind spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and lane departure warning. The ACC is available between 19-90 mph and was one of the best systems I’ve encountered thanks to how smoothly it operates. It’s quiet and not jarring when braking, unlike some systems I’ve come across in pricier vehicles.

As for the Mazda Connect infotainment system, it just works, and that’s all you can really ask for right? Connecting my phone via Bluetooth took no time at all, menus are easy to scroll through via the rotary knob on the center console, or if you like to mark your territory with fingerprints you can go the touchscreen route when parked. When I felt like using it, the navigation didn’t get me lost, switching between functions happens quickly, and overall the system comes across as well thought out.

The most important function the monolith serves is acting as the access point to the part of the CX-9 that really won me over, the 12-speaker BOSE audio system.

It’s 3:36 PM, do you know where this CX-9 is?

While many automakers are content to simply toss a loud and “bassy” system in their vehicles, Mazda chose to go with a setup from BOSE that offers impressive range and clarity. The bespoke 12 speaker system is starts with a mid/high range speaker in the center of the dash, flanked by two more at each corner, and tweeters at each corner of the instrument panel. These 3.25" and 1" units are the most important pieces of the system, as they’re what gives it the kind of clarity found in vehicles with ultra high end audio systems.

The mounting positions of these front units was given extra consideration by BOSE audio engineers in order to bring the listening experience closer to that of a live show on a stage. I know, that sounds audacious, but I put it to the test with a playlist I made (embedded below), and found that it actually lived up to the considerable amount of hype.

I listened to songs over Bluetooth and through USB, as both low quality streaming files, and extreme quality downloaded files, and to my surprise, there wasn’t much of a difference. Usually I can tell right away if a song is streaming vs being a saved file, but I struggled to find a discernible difference between most of the tracks I listened to.

Credit is due as much to how the system processes audio as it is to the speakers themselves, perhaps more considering that this system does more with 12 speakers than others do with 18 or more. Centerpoint 2.0 takes a stereo signal and converts it to multiple channels, which makes for a broader listening experience by helping to separate instruments, and allow you to hear them as if they were arranged out in front of you on a stage. That’s great news for drivers and front seat occupants, but what about second and third row passengers?

In order to make sure those riding in the back don’t feel left out, Mazda employed the use of Surroundstage signal processing to bring balanced audio to every seat in the car. I reclined the second row seat and took in Jonathan Wilson’s Desert Raven and then Jeremiah’s Planez, both were as enjoyable as they were when I was seated up front.

While my listening experience in the rear zone took place while stationary, I doubt there would be any drop off in quality while in motion since Mazda also employed the use of Audiopilot 2 Noise Compensation Technology. This system monitors audio conditions by way of a microphone mounted in the cabin, and adjusts levels as needed in order to maintain a consistent listening experience. The way you know a system like this is working is if you don’t notice it, and I found listening to My Morning Jacket’s One Big Holiday to be every bit as clear at elevated highway speeds as it was when parked at a lookout point above the Golden Gate bridge.

The system comes standard on Grand Touring and Signature models, and is available on the Touring model as part of a $1,745 Touring Premium Package, which includes a bunch of other goodies, but would be worth every penny even if it didn’t. Bottom line, this is a lust worthy audio system, one that should embarrass the hell out of many found in the premium luxury segment.

I see shades of Macan/Cayenne in the rear styling of the CX-9. What do you see?

Starting at $31,520 for a front wheel drive Sport , and ranging up to $44,015 for an Signature, the CX-9 has quite a spread between the base and top of the line model. I can’t give you a verdict on the Sport because I didn’t drive it, nor can I tell you about the $35,970 Touring or $40,170 Grand Touring. Since all models retain the same basic elements such as a solid chassis, a potent, fuel efficient engine, and the Mazda ethos of “less is more”, I’m comfortable saying that the CX-9 is good at any level.

It’s not without it’s faults, though most of my complaints are related to exterior styling choices that most shoppers in the segment are unlikely to pick up on. Young parents aren’t going to lament the placement of a large strip of chrome across the tailgate or think about how much better the stance would be with all the wheels moved out by 15mm spacers.

No, what they care about is what you should care about if you’re the type of person who needs a crossover, safety, convenience, and value. The 2016 CX-9 hits all three points, and it does so with more accuracy than any other Mazda that I can think of. I’m sure some people will scoff at the very idea of shelling out $45k for a Mazda, but those people are quite happy with their heads firmly planted in the sand.

For those that are willing to give things a chance, I think the new CX-9 Signature will be a pleasant surprise. It’s a much needed option in a segment full of vehicles that over-promise and under-deliver, not to mention ones that are overpriced. There’s nothing cooler than being the parent who drives a nice car, and has enough money left over to take your kids, and their friends to the movies, ballgame, or whatever other wholesome activities parents are asked to shell out for.

Well, maybe being the parent with a nice car as well as a really nice car is cooler, but we’re not all Rockerfellers. Some of us just have to make due with one nice car, and often times one crappy car. Do yourself a favor, be pragmatic when it comes to picking the nice car and don’t succumb to badge envy.

Wheel wells real big, badge real big, grille real big, everything real big.

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Godzilla's balls > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 13:16

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I was having this argument the other day with a good friend. In Canada this car goes all the way up to around CAD55K. “Why would anyone shell out 55K for a Mazda, that’s BMW territory” and although I understand his point, you won’t get even close to have the same features on the premium brands for those same 55K.

I think Mazda operates on a a “medium” segment between Premium and affordable brands. This is the right way to go.

Ash78, voting early and often > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 13:20

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I’ma go out on a limb and say I might actually take this over the Volvo XC90 (if I were spending my own cash). Mazda, get your ass back into the minivan game, please. Something MPV-sized, ideally. You can do it.

ZHP Sparky, the 5th > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 13:21

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Great write-up, and welcome to my neck of the woods! Any photos of the interior that are zoomed out a bit more? e.g. of the center console, driver display, space in general, etc.? First write-up of this car I’ve seen, would love to see some non-stock photos finally!

Andrew T. Maness > ZHP Sparky, the 5th 06/24/2016 at 14:09

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I’m ashamed to admit that I blew it on getting wider interior shots. Thought I had some killer ones, but due to the fact that I was a.) in a rush and b.) hungover, they were overexposed and out of focus.

I did manage to get a few more tasteful detail shots though.

and one artsy “look at the buildings in the window reflection shot”

ZHP Sparky, the 5th > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 14:35

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It happens, and the details are stunning - so understandable how one could get so focused on that! Can’t wait to see this vehicle in person - like you I’m quite a few years away from actually NEEDING a car like this, but with quality like this might not be something I’d mind - especially if these details, engine, and comforts keep trickling down their line.

I’d love for them to put a bit more focus on the RWD offerings...the new Miata is great, hopefully the talks of a new RX# actually lead somewhere, and hopefully something more coupe/sedan like spawning from that could be an awesome range offering to go head to head with the Europeans. They’ve got the build quality and dynamics, keep checking all the other boxes too.

CalBearsFan99 > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 18:39

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I need the wife to get one of these. How’s the braking?

Doctor-G-and-the-wagen > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 18:46

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Or y’know what would be really fucking nice to get?

SOME OF US REALLY HATE COMPROMISE. (re: me. A lot.)

Shiftright > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 18:54

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You shall leave SAAB out of this or you and I shall have words, and it may come to fisticuffs dear Sir!. Good day! I say GOOD DAY INDEED SIR!...

TheAngryBlueberry > ZHP Sparky, the 5th 06/24/2016 at 19:12

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Well they need to sell a crapload of CX-9s and keep selling a crapload of CX-5s so they can pay for hilarious sports car development

TheAngryBlueberry > Godzilla's balls 06/24/2016 at 19:17

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I agree. I think Mazda realized they can’t compete with Toyota or Honda based on volume, so they are targeting a particular market which is not just auto enthusiasts in the traditional sense, but people who “get it.” I worked at Carmax for the last 5 months as an in-between, and the people were cross shopping the CX-5s with both luxury brands and the standard CUVs (CRV, RAV4, etc). I found that interesting. People who are looking for “an experience” or more style, more features, etc, but are not locked into a Bimmer or Merc just for the brand name.

MikeofLA > Godzilla's balls 06/24/2016 at 19:19

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I have the top of the line Mazda3 S Grand Touring 5 door with the tech package. I paid under $30k. It has the i-Activesense with radar cruise, BSM, Lane departure, heads up display, nice leather, and the same stereo as this (sans 2 speakers)... for a comparable Audi A3 or even Mini Countryman, I’d be looking at about $45-$50k... they still want $500 for the keyless ignition system $2,500 for premiuim audio and ANOTHER $2-$4k for the radar cruise package. If people woke up and realized the BS that Audi and BMW are selling them, they’d be shocked.

Burberry1492 > Ash78, voting early and often 06/24/2016 at 19:20

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A Typical person doesn’t need a minivan more than 5% of the time. Heck, a person doesn’t require a three-row crossover more than 10% of the time...at least I don’t!

I drive a previous generation 2011 CX-9. 90000 miles later I am still very impressed with what I have to drive every day knowing this was built with a Ford platform that started life as a Volvo. In fact my wife like mine so much and that she now also has one, although it’s a 2013.

The fact that Mazda even tries in this segment is enough for me. Will I replace one of ours with a 2016? Not terribly likely at least not at this stage... Ours is still running great and kids are expensive!

DriveByComments > Godzilla's balls 06/24/2016 at 19:21

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Yeah and honestly I think it can be a tough space for them to be.

The stereo on the Sedans and even CX-5 falls into pretty average range, so it’s nice to read that is a standout on the CX-9 and gives hope that could bleed into the rest of the brand.

I also think it’s pretty bad that their navigation doesn’t include real time traffic - while it is easy to use and has a lot of pretty cool features, this missing component is pretty huge when it comes to navigation.

I absolutely love the interior trim and overall design aesthetic across their line, but especially love all the detail work on the CX-9 signature.

Which brings me back to the price/brand dynamic. I know until I bought a Mazda and was looking into what my next (now current) car would be, that Mazda really wasn’t on my list. The opinion I had on it and one that seems to be shared among a lot of people I know is that it is a decent company that makes decent cars.

I was really looking at a slightly used E Class or A6 when I started searching, figuring that if need be I could fall back into any of the name known boring sedans if my practical bug started yelling at me.

I was led to Mazda by reading and decided to go in and test drive a 6 and CX-5. I was concerned about “power” going in, but the 6 did (and continues to do) all that I really need it to do on a daily driver.

However, when you are checking boxes you get a $30k car that lacks “power”, doesn’t have the reliability/safety recognition of others in it’s class, doesn’t have the badge appeal ..... but it is super nice.

I’d put the interior on the 6 GT up against many competitors, the thing is just comfortable and nice. While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles, it hits a nice mid-market between the everyday brands and the premium brands.

I just don’t think people realize it is there.

When people heard I was looking at a Mazda we would check them out online - the reaction was typically “it looks nice, but that seems like an awful lot of money for a Mazda”

Then after I bought it and they got to check it out in person, ride along, drive, etc the reaction was usually “this is really, really nice - I can’t believe it’s a Mazda”

Had a similar reaction this morning with some people who were staying with us. Last night we were talking and it was mentioned I had a new car, they heard what kind and had all the pleasantries - “I heard they were supposed to be nice”.

This morning as they were loading up to go, the garage door was open and they saw it sitting there. Which led to “hey, mind if I go take a better look” to “wow, this is really nice” to a bunch of questions about how it drives, the features it has, mileage, etc.

The night before no one had interest in checking it out or asking any questions - but the more they saw the more they wanted to know.

The price point is reasonable IMO, but for those who do not already value the brand it can be hard to get them to take that first look.

xerostatus > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 19:21

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I am a twenty-something with no kids, just a couple of dogs. 2 years ago (almost to the date) I bought my very first new car, a 2014 CX-9 Sport. Pound for pound, it is the best car I’ve ever owned. Fastest? Most fun? Best looking? Most luxurious? Probably/obviously not. But all things considered, I think the CX-9 is a grossly-underappreciated 3-row’er. The new model is a helluva looker, for sure, but my caveman-brain cannot get past the lack of V6 option. I’m not doubting the turbo-4 is more than adequate, and probably a better and more powerful engine that the now-antiquated Ford-sourced V6 of its predecessor, but still.

I don’t really have a point, except: the CX-9 is a good car, the new one is pretty, and I’m still guzzling down <20MPG in my V6, but loving every gallon burned.

LongbowMkII > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 19:21

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You know what’d be better?

An updated mazda5. Yeah yeah yeah, low sales, margins blah blah blah.

Im already in the market for a Mazda5, unfortunately I have to pick through the used market for a manual.

This is lame, but my dream car would be a new mazda5 with the skyactive drivetrain from the 3 and the awesome kodo design.

Plainly, the CX-9 is just way too big. I have no interest in it, even with 3 kids.

TheAngryBlueberry > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 19:23

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I still wonder why Mazda is the only Japanese make that can actually design a car that looks good. All Mazda needs to do to sell these is make sure they are out front where people can see them compared to the Murano, Pilot, and Highlander when they drive down the motor mile.

And then sell 023875348763844769348 of these so you can build a hilarious rotary nightmare for us. (And put the skyactiv turbo in the 6 at least. goddamn)

LongbowMkII > Doctor-G-and-the-wagen 06/24/2016 at 19:24

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I told my Mazda dealer to mention the mazda6 wagon as the salesmen were going to a meeting with Mazda corporate. Did my part.

xerostatus > CalBearsFan99 06/24/2016 at 19:25

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Would like to know this as well. The outgoing model had apparently always suffered under-powered braking (or so I’ve heard; personally can’t tell during my regular, boring-ass daily commutes) which is especially problematic if you want to tow anything other than a couple of bikes.

Matsayz > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 19:26

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What are the drivetrain options? Looks pretty good!

PardonMyFlemish16 > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 19:28

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If Mazda could stuff this engine in a new CX-7.... whew. Wifey is gonna need a family ride in the coming years, and I have no use for the vestigial 3rd rows of CUVs. If I get that reckless with the seed sprayer I will just fully submit and get a minivan.

BrianGriffin thinks “reliable” is just a state of mind > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 19:28

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How about they us an engine that can get this thing to 60 in less than 7 seconds...?

Rusty Shackleford > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 20:01

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because I want the WRX/STI to have some competition so Subaru will actually try instead of phoning it in like they’ve been doing for, well, far too long.

Gonna be that guy for a moment. The Mazdaspeed 3 also competed with the GTI and ever so briefly with the ST.

RandomInternetComment > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 20:05

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That front clip is nice.

leelze > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 20:10

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I just replaced my poor totalled 2012 Mazda 3 with a 2016 version and was blown away by the interior in it and a few of their other models. I felt like I was way under paying based off the interior alone.

And the 3 has the option for 9 Bose speakers, which I had to have, and I’d say they’re a must have for anyone planning on listening to something other than AM talk radio.

theSupercrap > BrianGriffin thinks “reliable” is just a state of mind 06/24/2016 at 20:11

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That’s what I’m hoping will happen if and when it gets placed into the cx5. Come to papa!

presidentarthur > Ash78, voting early and often 06/24/2016 at 20:40

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“Mazda, get your ass back into the minivan game, please.”

Fuck. Yes.

Please.

special_k_side > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 20:41

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WHOA! (Insert screeching stop here) Did you say solid chassis? Drool. :-)

presidentarthur > Burberry1492 06/24/2016 at 20:41

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Wait...you think minivans don’t make sense because you don’t need the full advantages of them most of the time, but your household has TWO full-sized CUV’s?

spookiness > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 20:54

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I don’t need a car like this, but I recently partook of a review/video by a certain print-based media outlet based in New York, and I was impressed with the interior, and yes the console as you mentioned. The materials and detail reminded me of “Brand V’s” recent SUV and sedan/wagon. Real wood trim that isn’t all shiny really turns me on. Big time. I’m a 4 time Mazda owner but not currently driving one. Maybe a future Mazda3, Mazda6 wagon (yeah, right) or CX variant with nice wood around 25k +/- and I’m back in the fold. And be sure to add sound insulation...

danx33 > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 20:57

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very sharp looking, this IMO wins best SUV hands down.

Jacob Brown > DriveByComments 06/24/2016 at 21:23

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Thank you for believing in what we are doing as a company right now. Let me know if ever there's anything I can do to help. Thank you for being a loyal customer.

Jacob Brown > LongbowMkII 06/24/2016 at 21:26

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Keep writing to our customer service department. We do actually record customer comments.

Jeb_Hoge > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 21:27

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I’m very impressed by what Mazda has accomplished...it’d be a heck of a call to make between a CX-9 Signature and a new Ford Explorer Sport.

AP1M > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 22:01

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Funny you convinced me to go the mazda site, the signature doesnt come in the mazda red....

Keep the newer MDX, save $$ or a new CX9 signature with deprecation

BBlades > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 22:10

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Looking forward to testing this thing, and probably getting it as the next family car. Love the Cx5, but more room and power would make it just about perfect, this should do the trick.

sounbwoy > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 22:17

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Now, if they would put some of those quality materials and engine into a new Mazda5.....

360ad > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 22:27

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Excellent write up. Enjoyed it very much. And kudos to Mazda for making a production car that actually looks (and drives) as exciting as a concept car.

mxer > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 22:39

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I own a 13 and enjoy it. I bought it used and the Touring has quite a bit of options that competitors don’t have at their “mid grade”. My favorite feature by far are the seat. Mazda always makes the best seats IMO.

One big knock against it is the resale it seems. Values drop severely when compared to the Highlander and over x overs.

npc58501 > Burberry1492 06/24/2016 at 22:49

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A typical person doesn’t need a minivan 95% of the time, true. Then again for my family going up with three other siblings, a minivan was absolutely necessary. No other type of vehicle was able to stuff 6 people and a large dog comfortably along with all the cargo to do things that families do before crossovers came out.

Bring Minivans Back Mazda!!!!

pagkly2 > Andrew T. Maness 06/24/2016 at 23:26

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for sure!

Prome > Ash78, voting early and often 06/25/2016 at 00:07

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I’m sure you wouldn’t say that if both were the same price.

The CX-9 is great and all, but it’s no Volvo. Hell, it’s no Honda Pilot, which is what I would buy if I wanted something in this class. People who buy these things don’t buy them for driving excitement. You aren’t carving canyons with kids in the car and how many men or women go out for a sporty drive alone in their 3 row crossover?

The minivan market is a losing battle for Mazda. They can’t compete with FCA, Toyota, Honda and to a lesser extent, Nissan and Kia. Not happening.

bacavoit > Andrew T. Maness 06/25/2016 at 01:57

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My heart stopped when I heard that it was going to be powered by a L4 engine but the turbo is a nice touch.

I wish the M6 had a V6 like the previous gens.

Scalfin > Ash78, voting early and often 06/25/2016 at 01:58

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They have some in Asia. Looking at Wikipedia, a lot of them are really cool looking.

Scalfin > Prome 06/25/2016 at 02:02

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Remember that Oldsmobile was able to keep up a wagon based on the original muscle car for decades. People who buy crossovers might not obsess over drive, but they still mind if there’s not enough pep on the on ramps (there’s one spot on my commute every day where I actually have to go from a stop onto a 65-mph speed limit highway, and thank got I have a Mazda3)

Scalfin > Andrew T. Maness 06/25/2016 at 02:07

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Having pep under the hood is important to feeling safe when going up an on ramp (especially if traffic makes building up speed difficult), and the people who drive these things want to feel safe. Basically, even non-enthusiasts care about whether the car can do what they want it to do.

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NavyNole > Andrew T. Maness 06/25/2016 at 05:32

1

Ok, time for my one absurd criticism that I’ll doubtlessly (and probably deservingly) be flogged over.

We were in the market for a minivan/3-row the last few months, and I was more than happy to wait and test one of these when they were hit dealer lots. Then, I read that even the top trim on a newly-released generation of a 3-row in the year 2016 wasn’t going to offer ventilated seats, and my Florida-born ass commands that for over $40K and every option box ticked in this segment. Unfortunate deal-breaker (for me) is unfortunate, and I’m quite surprised Mazda chose to leave it out. But, if I’m honest, I prefer the utility/doors of the minivan we went with (Sedona SX-L) instead over the supposed gains in driver enjoyment of this anyway, though I would have loved that center console and infotainment interface w/ the knob.

NavyNole > Ash78, voting early and often 06/25/2016 at 05:33

3

Well, considering you could buy a fully-loaded one of these, then a Miata, for the price of a well-equipped XC-90, I’d say that’s a good call.

newgalactic > Andrew T. Maness 06/25/2016 at 06:46

0

I was in fact shopping for a used Cayman S. But I just learned that my wife is pregnant with our 3rd. We currently don’t own a car with the space for the three car seats we’ll need. ...I’m now in the minivan vs. third-row SUV debate.

Fun two-seater is on-hold. :/

Louis Subearth > Ash78, voting early and often 06/25/2016 at 07:46

0

You mean bring back the Mazda 5?

Louis Subearth > TheAngryBlueberry 06/25/2016 at 07:48

0

Or, perhaps call the guy from Florida who made a body kit out of hemp and turned his Miata into a Ferrari knockoff. You could get Snoop Dogg as a spokesperson too.

LongbowMkII > BrianGriffin thinks “reliable” is just a state of mind 06/25/2016 at 08:22

9

JFC.

Stop street racing your mom’s crossover. She's not going to let you go to prom.

LeCookieMonsieur > Andrew T. Maness 06/25/2016 at 09:52

1

Sounded like an ad.

Are you an ad?

dominic1955 > spookiness 06/25/2016 at 10:42

0

Wood trim really does it for me, too. I have no use for black on black interiors-even if it’s mostly nice leather. Wood gives a vehicle some warmth and a bit of old school luxury feel.

Hell, I even appreciate plastiwood on cheaper cars. Looks better than the plain black or gray plastic that would otherwise take its place.

79 horsepower monster > Andrew T. Maness 06/25/2016 at 11:13

2

The reason crossovers are are considered automotive punishment by enthusiasts isn’t because they are spacious, practical, or any of tthat. The reason is because all they are is a tall wagon. The general population refuses to accept that they they don’t actually need all of that ground clearance, even in snowy climates. I have driven fairly low sedans for around 10 years in the Ohio snowbelt, only getting stuck twice (due to my own screwing around). If the manufactures stopped trying to convince us that big, black body cladding meant that our cars were rugged offroadmobiles, I think we’d start to see more honest wagons. Wagons are the real solution to the maturing auto enthusiast.

Charlie > Andrew T. Maness 06/25/2016 at 11:21

3

don’t succumb to badge envy.

I get badge envy whenever I see a Mazda.

CalBearsFan99 > xerostatus 06/25/2016 at 12:02

0

Yeah, wife’s Edge, which shares a platform I think, has horrible braking.

certified cool guy > BrianGriffin thinks “reliable” is just a state of mind 06/25/2016 at 12:11

1

How does somebody us an engine?

Mark Jacob > BrianGriffin thinks “reliable” is just a state of mind 06/25/2016 at 12:25

0

Because I’m sure all the potential buyers of this vehicle care so much about 0-60 times.

eyeroll.gif

Andrew T. Maness > Godzilla's balls 06/25/2016 at 12:37

1

Exactly, and as they continue to push the quality of their interiors upmarket, while not letting the cars get out of control expensive, so consumers win.

Andrew T. Maness > MikeofLA 06/25/2016 at 12:39

0

Indeed, the amount of stuff that isn’t standard on premium vehicles is embarrassing for the brands. I need to get some time with a Grand Touring 3 hatch soon.

Andrew T. Maness > Ash78, voting early and often 06/25/2016 at 12:41

0

That might be a bit of a stretch, but I see where you’re coming from. The vehicle that the CX-9 really puts on notice is the new Q7. Lots of similarities between those two, and while the Q7 has way more fancy tech available in it, I wouldn’t say it’s worth the massive uptick in price.

Andrew T. Maness > Doctor-G-and-the-wagen 06/25/2016 at 12:42

0

Well yeah, that’d be ideal, but I gave up hope awhile back when multiple people at Mazda said “never going to happen”.

Andrew T. Maness > LongbowMkII 06/25/2016 at 12:43

0

You’re not wrong, I know lots of people who would like a new 5/MPV sort of vehicle, but Mazda seems to be moving away from that kind of quirkiness, at least in this country.

Everybody wants to be cool these days, and crossovers are sooooo cool.

Andrew T. Maness > Charlie 06/25/2016 at 12:49

0

I guess that’s the good kind of badge envy then.

Andrew T. Maness > PardonMyFlemish16 06/25/2016 at 12:53

4

If I get that reckless with the seed sprayer I will just fully submit and get a minivan.

That’s a hell of a sentence right there.

Andrew T. Maness > Jeb_Hoge 06/25/2016 at 12:54

1

Once you drive both and use the infotainment in both, won’t even be a question of which to go with.

Andrew T. Maness > Matsayz 06/25/2016 at 12:56

2

Same motor and transmission across the board, FWD standard, AWD optional on all models, except for Signature where it is standard.

Andrew T. Maness > CalBearsFan99 06/25/2016 at 13:00

1

I would call them smooth and mildly confidence inspiring. They’re by no means outstanding, but certainly capable, and not grabby.

Andrew T. Maness > spookiness 06/25/2016 at 13:04

2

Indeed, if the sound insulation they put in the CX-9 trickles down to the rest of the lineup, they’ll be way, way ahead of the competition. I guess I forgot to mention in the article how incredibly quiet the cabin is. I turned the radio off when I was on the 101 freeway for a stretch as my driving partner was on a phone call, and he said he had no problem hearing the people on the call. In an vehicle with big wheels, on a shite surface like that, one would think there would be way more NVH.

Andrew T. Maness > 79 horsepower monster 06/25/2016 at 13:07

2

Having owned four wagons and a hatchback myself, I completely agree with you.

The problem is that as soon as the automakers figured out that black body cladding and a higher ride height justifies a higher price tag, they had no reason to put in the effort with wagons anymore, at least here in the United States of Awesome.

RIP Legacy Wagon, A4 Avant, Acura TSX, Cadillac CTS wagon, so on and so forth.

Andrew T. Maness > LeCookieMonsieur 06/25/2016 at 13:10

1

Really? I thought I was just speaking from the heart, but maybe I was wrong. Maybe I am an ad. Do ads dream? I dream.

Andrew T. Maness > newgalactic 06/25/2016 at 13:12

0

Ah man, that SUCKS. Stupid kids...

In all seriousness, congrats, and maybe sell what you currently have, get used minivan on the cheap and then still get the Cayman S?

Andrew T. Maness > NavyNole 06/25/2016 at 13:16

1

I shall defend your criticism sir! It was something I noticed right away and much to my shame, completely forgot to include in the write up.

Once you’ve enjoyed the glorious feeling of a ventilated seat, you want it all the time, and you’re absolutely right, in a $40k plus vehicle that is loaded, it should at the very least be an option.

Andrew T. Maness > bacavoit 06/25/2016 at 13:18

2

Very rarely do you think about it being a turbo, they did a hell of a job tuning this engine.

Andrew T. Maness > leelze 06/25/2016 at 13:20

1

Yeah, the interior of even a base model 3 is impressive. I tried desperately to get my g/f to get a 3 hatch instead of a Golf, but she just likes German cars because she grew up in Audis. *Sigh*

Andrew T. Maness > danx33 06/25/2016 at 13:21

0

It’ll likely get lots of attention come awards season, not sure if Mazda has the budget to buy top honors though.

Andrew T. Maness > BBlades 06/25/2016 at 13:23

2

Indeed, I enjoyed the hell out of the CX-5 when I had it for a week in Colorado this past winter, but would have enjoyed it a-lot more with this engine and all the sound deadening.

Andrew T. Maness > 360ad 06/25/2016 at 13:24

0

Thanks! Was oddly fun to do something more mainstream, and I will hopefully be doing more of it soon.

Andrew T. Maness > pagkly2 06/25/2016 at 13:26

1

Hmmmmmmmmm.

Andrew T. Maness > Scalfin 06/25/2016 at 13:30

1

Yep, merging onto the highway was one of the main things that the engineering team took into consideration when tuning the engine. They analyzed the driving styles of American drivers and it should come as no surprise that they found most drivers want/need lots of torque at merging speeds, and then again at passing speeds. How they went about programming the transmission and valve timing to give people what they want is pretty wild.

NavyNole > Andrew T. Maness 06/25/2016 at 14:07

1

Hey, no shame in the article, I enjoyed it very much! Hope it’s at least a feature they include with a trim update in a couple years, as it's a crossover that shows a LOT of potential in this segment, and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend to family and friends if they don't care about that feature. Doesn’t even really take a refresh, my own Sedona is getting a few things added for ‘17 that I wish I had on my ‘16. (Acoustic glass, auto-bending headlights, and auto-emergency braking instead of just forward-collision alert). Good news is, I'm also finally getting the Android Auto update next month that they just kinda talked around for a while without actually promising, and that makes the experience complete enough for me.

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0

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BrianGriffin thinks “reliable” is just a state of mind > Mark Jacob 06/25/2016 at 14:31

0

If you don’t think that’s the case, you’re mad. Maybe not specifically the acceleration time, but when you live in a city where all the on ramp “merges” end in stop signs and you gotta go from 0-70mph without getting squished, acceleration is damn important.

BrianGriffin thinks “reliable” is just a state of mind > LongbowMkII 06/25/2016 at 14:33

1

You obviously do not have to merge into east coast city (or any city) rush hour traffic, friend. 0-full throttle is just about a daily occurance for me.

jpomonkey > theSupercrap 06/25/2016 at 17:26

0

I want a CX5 so bad!

Prome > Scalfin 06/25/2016 at 17:27

0

Most USDM three row crossovers have more than enough power to get out of their own way. I can’t think of any that don’t.

I have an XC90 PHEV. I have two kids and wife. My XC90 has 400 HP and I can tell you that I never use all 400 HP unless I’m in it alone. Rare. When we’re all together, I try not to use too much throttle so I can continue driving on battery power unless I’m on the highway, which is just about the only time I turn on the ICE.

These things are meant to be reliable and practical. This Mazda is fighting a losing battle unless they plan on selling them for well below MSRP. $35k loaded? I’ll take one. If I want a new mainstream 3 row CUV for $45k, I’m buying a Pilot or an Explorer. If I’m buying in the next class up, my money is on the XC90.

Bladecutter1 > Andrew T. Maness 06/25/2016 at 18:27

4

All those words, and yet YOU NEVER ACTUALLY GAVE ANY IMPRESSION ON HOW THE CAR DRIVES.

ArtistAtLarge > Andrew T. Maness 06/25/2016 at 18:32

1

Exactly.

ArtistAtLarge > Andrew T. Maness 06/25/2016 at 18:34

0

Grabby brakes drive me nuts. I literally do NOT feel safe driving a car set up with grabby brakes.

Andrew T. Maness > ArtistAtLarge 06/25/2016 at 20:06

1

Yep, and so many new cars have them, not sure what the thought process is behind it, but they are the worst.

Andrew T. Maness > Bladecutter1 06/25/2016 at 20:09

2

It’s implied.

All that twist down low, paired with a 198-lb weight reduction from the outgoing model, makes the new CX-9 a rather capable corner carver, as I found out firsthand on coastal roads north of San Francisco.

!!! UNKNOWN CONTENT TYPE !!!

Though I was thoroughly impressed by the athleticism of the CX-9

!!! UNKNOWN CONTENT TYPE !!!

Turn to a manufacturer that has consistently put driving dynamics ahead of raw power for years.

BobWellington > Andrew T. Maness 06/25/2016 at 20:56

1

I’m going to try and get my mom to get one of these once she’s done with her 2011 Explorer. She currently has like 148k miles on it and she drove her 2000 Expedition to 316k before she sold it so it may be a few more years.

LeCookieMonsieur > Andrew T. Maness 06/25/2016 at 21:27

0

I don't know anymore. Maybe I'm an ad.

boxrocket > Andrew T. Maness 06/25/2016 at 21:31

0

Can verify from personal experience that the new CX-9 feels like a much-fancier CX-5 (my wife and I own a 2016 CX-5 Grand Touring), with just a little more “junk in the trunk”, but not as ponderous as a full-size SUV, or as vague as a Pilot or Highlander. Were my wife and I in need of an extra row, it would be difficult to justify the extra cost for an XC90 over a CX-9, no joke.

I desperately want the turbo in our own car, dammit.

boxrocket > Andrew T. Maness 06/25/2016 at 21:34

0

Sound deadening was one of the first things I noticed compared to our own 2016 CX-5 Grand Touring. My wife and I took our CX-5 on a trip to the southeast US, and wind noise (especially from the mirrors, or thereabouts) was notable, but tolerable. The CX-9 is a mausoleum (in a good way) in comparison.

drdreydel > Andrew T. Maness 06/25/2016 at 23:08

1

Stopped by a Mazda showroom to checkout a cx3 for my sister in law and was blown away by how nice pretty much every model in the showroom. I had previous gen 3 hatch but damn the interiors are fantastic with the cx9 really looking like it could easily have a German badge on the steering wheel and look better than the Germans doing it themselves.

G/O Sucks > 360ad 06/25/2016 at 23:42

0

Yeah it’s pretty but if it’s as reliable as my recent 6 was, the only one to enjoy it will be the mechanic. Quality (and integrity) continues to be a big problem with the Mazda’s I’ve owned.

G/O Sucks > BBlades 06/25/2016 at 23:48

0

I’d wait at least a couple years. Mazda doesn’t get cars right the first year-plus. I bought a 2014 Mazda6 a year into production and it was non-stop problems that they wouldn’t fix without threat of lawsuit (even then they abandoned me). The cars drive well and look nice but mine was the worst automotive nightmare I’ve ever owned.

G/O Sucks > leelze 06/25/2016 at 23:53

0

Good luck! I had terrible experiences with a new Mazda6, as others commenting have. Mostly transmissions and getting Mazda to make repairs promised under warranty.