2011 Mazda CX-9

The 2011 Mazda CX-9 is a great looking midsize SUV that ranks #1 of among affordable vehicles in its class. If you are looking for a car where your family will all fit but want to have fun driving it, Mazda CX-9 should be the one you choose. Sport, Grand Touring, and Touring trims are the CX-9’s available in 2011. With a DOHC V6 3.7-liter engine, the CX-9 is the best crossover that can accommodate seven people.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Midsize SUV Base Price: $29,135.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 20.1 gallons (76 liters) MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 200.0 in. (508 cm) Width: 76.2 in. (193.5 cm)
Height: 68 in. (172.7 cm) Wheel Base: 113.2 in. (287.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 4330 lbs (1964 kg) Ground Clearance: 8.0 in. (20 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 17.2 cu ft Maximum Seating: 7 people
Performance
Engine: 3.7L 24-Valve DOHC V6 w/ VVT Displacement: 3726 cc
Horsepower: 273 HP Max RPM: 6250 RPM
Torque: 270 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Shiftable Automatic
0-60 mph: 8.0 seconds Max Towing Capacity: 2000 lbs (907 kgs)
Available Trims & Engine
Option:CX-9 Touring MSRP: $31,055; MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy
Option:CX-9 Grand Touring MSRP: $33,145; MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy

Performance

Mazda CX-9 features a 3.7 –liter engine with a DOHC V6. This engine is driven by an automatic six-speed transmission. The engine generates a maximum power of 273 HP and a torque value of 270 ft lb. In any situation, the Mazda CX-9 has the power and the transmission is very responsive. Another strong feature of this car, it runs smoothly and lightly on the road. It feels like you are driving a small car but with seven available seats.

Exterior

Many commented that among the crossovers of seven seats, the CX-9 has a better sporty look and smooth lines. The car looks small considering it can accommodate seven occupants. The windshield has perfect slope and the roofline is tapered such that it look like the wind polished it.

Interior

The 2011 CX-9 truly showcases a glamorous interior design. Other standard features like Bluetooth and keyless entry with remote are also incorporated in the construction of this car. Many positive remarks are given about how nice and comfortable the seats are of CX-9 especially the middle row.

Other optional features are integrated like the heated seats and the camera at the rear-view. The interior design carefully thought of such that the occupants will be comfortable while enjoying the ride.

Safety

The 2011 Mazda CX-9 hasn’t undergone crash tests, yet it is the same in build and product engineering as the 2010 CX-9 model. The 2010 model of CX-9 received the highest rating (5 out of 5 stars) for the front and side impact protection. Rollover scores for the all-wheel and front-wheel drive is 4 out of 5 stars.

On the other hand, a “Good” remark was given to CX-9 by the insurance industry for the test given to check the front and side protection of the car from an impact. Another safety feature included is the monitoring system for the blind spot. This system is designed to give a signal when another vehicle is detected to be approaching and closing in the car’s blind spot.

Reliability

The reliability score of Mazda CX-9 is 6 out of 10. This rating is given by J.D. Power and Associates. Purchase of this car entitles you the basic warranty (3-year/36,000 mile). This midsize SUV is also covered by the power-train warranty (5-year/60,000 mile), road assistance (3-year/36,000 mile), and the rust warranty for 5-year/unlimited mileage.

The Competition

There are other midsize SUVs like CX-9 that can also accommodate seven occupants. Ford Flex (MSRP $29,355; 17 city / 24 hwy) is one. But the Ford Flex has a feature that the CX-9 doesn’t offer. The Ford features an optional refrigerator that would be perfect in keeping your beverage and snacks cold. Ford also offers a more comfy seat for your two big kids in the third row.

If you want an SUV that can seat seven, choose a Toyota Highlander (MSRP $29,245; 18 city / 24 hwy). It is a tad cheaper than the CX-9. The Highlander has a less classy interior design and it’s not that fun to drive around but it provides you better fuel economy.

Pros & Cons

What is great with this SUV is it can accommodate a family with seven members and it has a spacious cargo area. The car provides you a great performance and a fun driving experience. The exterior is thoroughly designed for a sporty look. You can save a little of your money since you will spend less for the fuel of this car. However, all these good points come with a high price than its competitors.

Overall Rating
77 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Mazda CX-9 can carry seven in comfort, but it loves curves more than almost any other roomy crossover.”Car Connection

“The steering feels slightly numb on center but is nicely weighted while cornering. CX-9 exhibits some body lean in fast turns. A tidy turning radius makes it easy to maneuver in tight spots, a surprise given this crossover’s large overall size.”Consumer Guide

“This SUV shares the Ford Edge platform, but is quieter, more agile, and has a nicer interior.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2011 Mazda CX-9 offers everything the typical family-friendly crossover does, plus a dash of spice in the form of driving excitement.”Edmunds

“Three years and a boatload of awards later, the 2011 CX-9 has successful accomplished Mazda’s master plan, offering everything a growing family needs in a car and still looking cool while doing it.”KBB

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