The 2016 Mazda CX-9 does everything expected of a three-row crossover, and then some.

The CX-9 ($31,865, including transportation) carries up to seven in a modern and comfortable cabin. Flexible seating arrangements allow easy mix-and-matching of passengers and gear. And, even though most CX-9s are destined for urban duty, the rig is strong enough to cross tall mountains and pass slow traffic.

Properly equipped, the CX-9 will tow up to 3,500 pounds.

Of course, all of this is expected, to varying degrees, of all three-row crossovers. What’s not expected, and is always fun to rediscover, is the CX-9’s fluidity underway. It corners without drama, its steering is precise and communicative, and its powertrain works with the invisible synchrony of a magic show.

This is not by accident. Fun-to-drive is Mazda’s niche. Within obvious limitations, its large crossover should be as enjoyable in its own right as its Miata sports car is. 

Its tapered nose, trim lines and flowing silhouette notwithstanding, the CX-9 is larger and roomier than almost every other three-row crossover. It’s also one of the lightest, an advantage when it comes to handling, acceleration and efficiency. 

The CX-9 is available in three trims and with front- or all-wheel-drive. All CX-9s are powered by a 273-horsepower 3.7-liter V-6 paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 19 mpg combined (17 city/24 highway) for front-wheel-drive models and 18 mpg combined (16 city/22 highway) for AWD models.

In the interests of economy — but at the expense of performance — most automatic transmissions are calibrated to shift into higher gears as quickly as possible. The CX-9’s transmission allows the engine a bit more latitude, without completely upsetting the fuel efficiency picture. 

We drove the CX-9 westbound on SR12 from Yakima over White pass, a long and gradual incline that can have transmissions hunting for gears. But the CX-9 was steadfast on the long uphill, going for the next cog only when our speed changed or the road leveled out. 

The CX-9 showed its best stuff on that winding two-lane, carving the corners will a well-damped ride, communicative steering and ample power for passing.

The CX-9 cabin is attractively designed, with a “waterfall” console that sweeps down off the dash and into the center console. Materials and design are unpretentious but of high quality. Fit and finish is very good.

Every CX-9 has a 5.8-inch touchscreen infotainment control system. The screen is smaller than most and the system lacks the functionality of competitive systems, including access to smartphone apps. 

Even tall, long-legged adults will be comfortable in the first two rows of seats. To accommodate a variety of passenger needs, the second row reclines and slides fore and aft. The rear doors open wide to ease access to the third row.

With its second and third rows folded flat, the CX-9 produces a full 101 cubic feet of cargo space.

With the CX-9, Mazda proves that 7-passenger utility needn’t be dishwater dull, a big win for family types who enjoy the drive.

Don Adair is a Spokane-based freelance writer. Contact him at don@dadair.com.

2015 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring AWD
Vehicle base price: $28,985
Trim level base price: $36,625
As tested: $39,980
Options included premium Bose audio; satellite radio; roof rails with cross-bars; cargo net; moonroof; navigation; stainless steel rear bumper guard.
Tow capacity: 3,500 pounds
EPA rating: 18 combined/16 city/22 highway
Regular unleaded fuel specified

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