2009 Mazda CX-9

Added in the 2007 Model Year, the CX-9 is Mazda's top-of-the-line "crossover" SUV. Mazda launched the new crossover as the replacement of its aging MPV minivan. The CX-9 sets itself apart from its smaller sibling, the CX-7, with standard third row seating and V-6 power. The 2008 model receives an updated 3.7 liter engine that produces 273 horsepower to replace the 3.5 liter V6 found in the 2007 model year vehicles. The 2008 model also introduced the availability of a blind spot monitoring option.

The 2008 CX-9 received the prestigious Motor Trend "SUV of the Year" award. Previous winners include the Mercedes Benz GL class, Land Rover's LR3, and the Volkswagen Touareg. Being granted such an honor demonstrates that Mazda truly has brought zoom-zoom to the SUV market. In January of 2008 the CX-9 was also named "North American Truck of the Year". This award is granted by 48 automotive journalists to vehicles which have become "benchmarks in their class and have set new standards."

The CX-9 is available in three trim levels: Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring. Customers will find all three trims come with a standard six speed automatic and are available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive variants. Side curtain airbags, stability control, anti-lock brakes, and a host of other safety features are standard as well. Front wheel drive Sport CX-9s start just below $30,000 while an AWD Grand Touring can reach the $40,000 mark when loaded with rear seat entertainment, navigation, and towing packages.

Moving from the Sport to Touring models adds leather seating surfaces, power seats, heated mirrors, and Bluetooth phone support. The Grand Touring model is set apart with exclusive options such as rain-sensing windshield wipers, Xenon headlamps, and 20" Chrome wheels. Popular option groups include a Bose stereo and sunroof combination or Bose-powered rear seat entertainment sans sunroof. Mazda's apologies to those desiring both a sun roof and rear seat DVD as the options are mutually exclusive. A Navigation package is also available which includes both a power tailgate and backup camera. Opting for the towing package will allow a Touring or Grand Touring model to haul up to 3,500 pounds.