Notes From Professional Drivers On the CX-9.

“Mazda CX-9 – Trucks and sport utilities seldom earn a berth on the All-Stars list, but when was the last time you could call such a vehicle’s engine charming, or its transmission silky? The CX-9 ventures beyond the obligatory nine-to-five routine to play party animal in the off-hours.”
— AUTOMOBILE Magazine All-Stars 2008
“The CX-9 superbly balances roominess and utility with rewarding performance and handling. It’s a lot of fun to drive, and the ride is compliant without being overly cushy.”
— MotorTrend (Long-term test, 20K miles)

“Unlike a lot of seven-seaters, it doesn’t make you want to take a nap behind the wheel.”
— AUTOMOBILE Magazine 06.2008 (Test: Four Seasons)
“THREE ROWS: THAT’S ZOOM-ZOOM-ZOOM”
“This could be the best mid sized crossover SUV for the sporty driver needing room for seven passengers.”
— MotorTrend

1st Place: 2008 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring
“Uncommon levels of style and athleticism distinguish the 2008 Mazda CX-9 from every other $40K crossover SUV on the road. The CX-9’s victory in this comparison test proves these aren’t just marketing gimmicks, and indeed, we like the way this 2008 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring drives. But it takes the win here because it’s roomy, comfortable and an overall pleasant vehicle for daily family use.”
— Edmunds.com 07.2008 (Comparison Test: 2008-’09 Crossover SUVs 2008 Mazda CX-9, 2009 Honda Pilot, 2008 Toyota Highlander)
5Best Trucks 2008
Winner, 2008 MAZDA CX-9 (Category: Large Sport-Utility Vehicle)
“The result: a roomy three-row cargo and people hauler with the option of all-wheel drive, the usual family peacekeeping options, airbags galore, high-quality materials and assembly, slick styling, excellent driver sightlines, high chassis rigidity, and—consistent with Mazda’s Zoom-Zoom ethic—best–in-class agility.”
— Car and Driver 04.2008

“A CROSSOVER THAT’S JUST ABOUT PERFECT”
“As good a blend of tight precision and comfortable compliance as exists in the SUV world, mainstream or luxury”
— USA TODAY (Test Drive: CX-9)
“Mazda CX-9 is a winner, offering up a degree of style and spirited performance in a category of vehicle not known for it.”
— Road & Track