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Car Review: Mazda CX-9.

When introduced in 2007, the Mazda CX-9 was an instant hit. With a 3.5L V-6 that put out 263-hp and an impressive 0 to 60 time of 7.7 seconds, it was plenty enough engine for a second year. Mazda thought differently though and improved an already good thing. Now with a 3.7L V-6 and an impressive 270 lb-ft of torque and 273 horsepower, the Mazda Cx-9 power plant is even better. Aside from the engine the CX-9 remains virtually unchanged, a top quality, spacious, driver friendly crossover SUV.

The 2008 Mazda CX-9 is available in three trim levels, each being offered in FWD or AWD. The base trim being the Sport FWD with a MSRP of $29,400 and the AWD starting at $30,700. The Sport comes with many standard features such as 18-inch alloy wheels, full power accessories, tilt/telescoping steering wheel with audio and cruise controls, air-conditioning, and CD player with auxiliary audio jack.

The mid-range trim is the Touring FWD starting at $31,615 and the AWD at $32,915. This trim level adds to the standard package Bluetooth, two-toned leather seating, heated and power front seats, and heated rearview mirrors.

The top-of-the-line is the Grand Touring and starts at $33,355 for the FWD and $34,655 for the AWD. This trim level adds memory driver presets, wood cabin accents, blue cabin illumination, keyless ignition, blind-spot warning system, rain-sensing wipers, xenon headlights, and 20-inch wheels.

Standard on all models is a 6-speed automatic transmission, anti-lock disc brakes, front-seat side and full-length side curtain air bags, and stability control with a rollover sensor. The CX-9 did very well in crash testing, scoring five out of five stars for all frontal and side crash tests and the top rating of good for both frontal-offset and side-impact crash-worthiness.

One of the biggest advantages the Mazda CX-9 has over it's competitors is the interior. It has exceptional style, top-notch quality materials, considerable room for passengers as well as cargo, and the ergonomics exceed all expectations. The two-passenger third seat is the most spacious one yet with ample room for a six-foot adult and appropriately shaped to accommodate two adults. The third row access door is large for ease of use, but can be cumbersome in tight parking spots.

The cargo space in the CX-9 is massive with 17.2 cubic feet available with the third row seat in place. Fold down the third seat and the space expands to 47.5 cubic inches. The maximum capacity is 100.7 cubic feet which is very impressive in the large crossover SUV field.

The Mazda CX-9 is a very compelling choice for a seven-passenger crossover. It combines space and practicality with style and performance to create driver friendly family transportation without sacrificing that zoom-zoom attitude.

Learn more about this author, Wendy Lafond.
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