Review: 2023 Mazda CX-9 Signature

The 2023 Mazda CX-9 is a stylish three-row SUV. So if this is a SUV you are considering for a family, and minivans are out of the question, then this CX-9 is a great option. It is engaging to drive on a windy road, especially for an SUV of this size. Mazda has done well with keeping up with premium materials used throughout its cabin. The downside of the CX-9 is that its competitors offer more cargo space. The CX-9 is still at the top of the list if you prioritize an engaging ride over a larger interior. If I was in the market for a SUV, this would be on my top 3 affordable SUVs. It can comfortably fit a small family with few luggage and/or groceries. As I always say, if you need more space for long road trips, rooftop cargo boxes are a great option.

Engine & Transmission

The 2023 Mazda CX-9 Signature is powered by a 2.5L Turbo 4-cylinder engine and standard AWD. It is paired with a 6-speed autoamtic transmission. The engine produces 227hp and 310lb-ft of torque (169 kW & 420 Nm) using regular fuel and 250hp and 320lb-ft of torque (186 kW & 434 Nm) on premium fuel. 0 – 96km/h (60 mph) is done in just over 7 seconds. Because the CX-9 has a 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, it has an advantage for better fuel economy compared to its competitors. This makes for a greater experience being able to drive a larger SUV without having to spend as much on fuel prices.

Handling/Performance

The CX-9 is great to drive on windy roads. This may not drive like a sports SUV but for what its worth, its great! It handles just fine around corners without feeling like it leans too much which is due to its firm suspension. Though the CX-9 is larger, and with a 4cylinder engine, it does not feel underpowered. You do not need to accelerate hard, and the CX-9 picks up speed quite well. It does not struggle to overpass a vehicle and maneuvering around the city is not an issue. The CX-9 is the largest of the Mazda SUVs and it does not feel as big as it looks when driving. Gear shifting is smooth compared to some of its competitors.

Comfort

The CX-9 is comfortable enough for long trips or just commuting. Its smooth ride makes it great to be able to sit for longer periods of time. The CX-9 is equipped with captain chairs in the second row which makes it a 6 passenger SUV. The front and middle seats are the most comfortable and its where you want to be seated for most of the time. The third row, however, is not comfortable. The space is very limited and the chairs are not as cushy as the middle row seats.

Interior

As mentioned earlier, Mazda is doing a great job at keeping up with premium materials used throughout the cabin. The colors and materials used are nicely put which makes the vehicles feel and look more on the premium side. There haven’t been any major changes to the interior from the last couple of years. You still have the options of cloth, leather, or Nappa leather seats. The CX-9 is optional with a Bose stereo sound system which delivers a great sound in my opinion especially if you add base. The Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a 10.3-inch display which is very user friendly. It is available with a wireless charging pad, Apple car play and android auto, and a great feature which is the Mazda connected services app.

Exterior

The 2023 Mazda CX-9 Signature is equipped with 20-inch alloy wheels. It is very stylish, so it doesn’t feel like you’re driving an older persons vehicle. It’s got a sporty look to it that does not disappoint. It is available in 7 great colors including its ‘signature red’ or soul red which looks great. There really isn’t much to say about the exterior other than it looks great!

Pros/Cons

Overall, The CX-9 is a great SUV. You have 5 trim levels to choose from with the Signature being the top. The CX-9 has a starting price of $42,050 CAD ($31,361 USD) with the Signature I had during my week costs $54,050 CAD ($40,308 USD). Is the CX-9 worth it? Well, it all comes down to what your priorities are. If you are looking for an affordable yet engaging SUV for your family, then yes, I would suggest the CX-9. It has an affordable starting price and although the cargo space isn’t the greatest, I don’t see it to be a deal breaker. Most likely you will be traveling with small children in the third row. The third-row fits kids perfectly so they won’t complain about leg room or head room. The issue is with adults in the third row but to be fair, teenagers and adult children don’t go out on family trips as often after all. If the third row won’t be used, then take it as extra cargo space for your belongings with the seats folded.

Due to its 4 cylinder engine, the fuel economy is not as bad as say a 6 or 8-cylinder SUV. I averaged 10.1 L/100km (23.3 MPG). With gas prices these days, who doesn’t want a fuel-efficient vehicle? The interior is pretty to look at with all the upscale materials used. The only issue I do see with the CX-9 is that the infotainment is starting to look a bit outdated. It would be nice to see the infotainment system a bit more modern looking. This is just a very minor complaint. In my opinion the CX-9 Signature is a great SUV, it is equipped with what you may need and want in an affordable SUV.

Thank you to Mazda Canada for providing the vehicle. www.Mazda.ca