2020 Mazda CX-9

History/Overview

Mazda introduced the second generation of its CX-9 mid-size crossover in 2016, restyling it according to the brand's latest language and giving it the SkyActiv treatment for the first time.

What's New / Key Changes from Last Year

For 2020, the CX-9 gets marginally more powerful, adding 10 lb-ft of torque when the engine is fueled with premium gasoline. There's also a new second-row captain's chair option, a standard off-road traction assist system, and a hands-free tailgate is on offer for the first time. As well, Mazda has discontinued the front-wheel drivetrain, making all CX-9 trims standard with AWD.

Available Trims

Mazda sells the CX-9 in GS, GS-L, GT, and Signature trims. All use a 2.5L turbocharged engine matched with a six-speed transmission and AWD.

Standard Features

GS trim comes with cloth upholstery, heated front seats, a power driver's seat with lumbar, 18-inch wheels, rain-sensing wipers, heated/power-adjustable side mirrors, automatic on/off headlights with auto high beams, MazdaConnect infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, LED headlights and taillights, three-zone automatic climate control, and push-button engine start.

CX-9 GS also comes standard with a suite of active safety features: radar cruise control with stop-and-go, forward collision warning with pedestrian detection and automatic braking, lane departure warning and lane keep assist, and blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert.

GS-L trim adds 20-inch wheels, a front windshield wiper de-icer, a heated steering wheel, leather upholstery, heated second-row seats, a power front passenger seat, a sunroof, power tailgate, passive keyless entry, and a new 9.0-inch infotainment display.

GT models gain a hands-free tailgate, third-row USB charging, 360-degree exterior camera views, a head-up display, ventilated front seats, power-folding side mirrors, steerable headlights, chrome exterior trim, LED interior lighting, and front and rear parking sensors.

Finally, Signature trim adds second-row captain's chairs with centre console, contrast leather upholstery, rosewood interior trim, a frameless/auto-dimming rearview mirror with garage door opener, a hand-stitched leather steering wheel, LED grille lighting, and upgraded interior lighting.

Key Options

GS-L and GT can be optioned with second-row captain's chairs.

Fuel Economy

Mazda's fuel consumption estimates for the CX-9 are 11.6/9.1 L/100 km (city/highway).

Competition

The Mazda CX-9 faces competition from Japan's Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Nissan Pathfinder and Subaru Ascent.

Domestic comers include the Chevrolet Traverse, GMC's Acadia, the Ford Explorer, and Dodge's Durango.

From South Korea come the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade.

Finally, Germany's Volkswagen offers up the Atlas.