At a glance, this seven-passenger crossover utility vehicle (CUV) Mazda CX-9 looks very durable, quiet and really amazing.
It is a fact that SUVs ate the vehicle of choice of many. Lighter crossover vehicles, however, are shining little by little due to the continuously increasing cost of gasoline. The unnecessary weight of truck-based SUVs is also a factor.
CUVs share common traits that are patterned on car platforms. They are more efficient and controllable as compared to big SUVs. The CX-9, Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX and other larger CUVs are not much smaller than minivans. However, they come with striking aggressive styles, and these give them identity in their sporty appearance that hides on their sizes.
The chassis of the CX-9 is derived from that of the Mazda 6, while the basic design and many parts are the same as those with the Edge and MKX. As compared to the Ford Edge, the wheelbase of the CX-9 is 2 inches longer.
With a starting price of $29,035, the Mazda CX-9 is available in three trim levels.
The CX-9 really resembles like the smaller CX-7. As a matter of fact, one might get confused which is which when these two vehicles are parked together. The only physical difference of the two is the sides of the exterior.
The striking looks of the CX-9 includes sharp nose, angled windshield and tapered roofline. All these contribute to a wedge-shaped profile that looks perfect by the wind. To cover the fat tires, the powerful looking bulging rear fenders do their task. Standard are 18 inches wheels and optional are 20-inchers. An example of the 20-inchers is the Grand Touring model.
The CX-9 does not lack carefully executed styling details. Some of the evidences are the taillights which are trimmed with chrome and convex rear hatch. Appropriately combined wood-grain trim, satin-finished accents and piano black panels make the interior of the Touring model test car really a great deal.
Mazda's distinguished door panels have curved ribs that echo those of the center stack. The power window switches are placed on the top of the ribs.
At night, the instrument panel is cool. Highlighted by a blue light in a circle, the red number are in the main gauges. To light the door handles and make a soft glow on the center console, the blue LEDs do their task.
The CX-9 is durable and quiet, and that is because it is using Ford's 3.5-liter V-6, which is rated at 263 horsepower. Crowded highway acceleration is accessible while the engine does its task with just a very minimal noise.
It comes with a six-speed automatic transmission. Optional is the all-wheel-drive system that provides traction to all four wheels.
A large and wide cabin is also impressive in the CX-9. For easy accessibility to the third row, the second-row seat slides forward.
For the passengers to further feel comfort, a power outlet and a jack for an MP3 player is present on the center console.
When the rear seat is folded down, the rear cargo area becomes available with an ample space. However, the top-hinged rear tailgate was quite heavy to close. But that does not lessen the power, efficiency and comfort that the CX-9 gives.
About Mazda Motor Corporation
A Japanese automotive manufacturer that is based in Hiroshima, Japan, Mazda Motor Corporation is the maker of quality and top of the line auto parts such as .
In addition to that, Mazda is also a well known producer of different types of vehicles and their parts.
The company is expected to produce 1.25 million vehicles annually as of 2006. Among Japan, Europe, North America, and Latin America, its sales will be evenly divided.
Mazda's 33.4% of controlling interest is controlled by the Ford Motor Company.
