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If you're looking for a three-row SUV that offers a blend of style, performance, and luxury, you might want to check out the 2023 Mazda CX-9. This midsize crossover stands out from the crowd with its sleek design, engaging driving dynamics, and upscale cabin. But is it the right choice for you and your family? In this blog post, we'll review the 2023 Mazda CX-9 and highlight its pros and cons.
The 2023 Mazda CX-9 is powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque when running on premium fuel (227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular). The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The CX-9 can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in about 7 seconds, which is competitive for the segment. It also has a sporty handling that makes it fun to drive on twisty roads. The ride quality is comfortable and quiet, thanks to the well-tuned suspension and sound insulation.
The CX-9's interior is one of its strong points, especially in the top-level Signature trim that features Nappa leather seats, genuine wood trim, and ambient lighting. The cabin is spacious and elegant, with a minimalist dashboard and a rotary knob to control the infotainment system. The CX-9 comes with a 10.3-inch touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a 12-speaker Bose sound system, a wireless charging pad, and a power sunroof. The front seats are supportive and adjustable, and the second-row captain's chairs are standard on all trims except the Touring Plus, which offers a bench seat for eight-passenger capacity.
The third row of seats, however, is where the CX-9 falls short compared to some of its rivals. The legroom and headroom are limited, making it suitable only for small children or occasional use. The cargo space is also below average for the class, with 14.4 cubic feet behind the third row, 38.2 cubic feet behind the second row, and 71.2 cubic feet behind the first row. Some competitors, such as the Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, and Volkswagen Atlas, offer more room for both passengers and cargo.
The 2023 Mazda CX-9 starts at $40,125 for the Touring trim, which is higher than most of its competitors' base prices. The Touring Plus costs $42,125, the Grand Touring costs $44,625, and the Signature costs $48,460. The CX-9 comes with a decent amount of standard safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. It also has an optional front and rear parking sensors and a 360-degree camera system.
The 2023 Mazda CX-9 is a great choice for drivers who value style, performance, and luxury over practicality and utility. It offers a refined driving experience that few other three-row SUVs can match, as well as a premium interior that rivals some luxury brands. However, if you need more space for your family and cargo, or if you're looking for more advanced technology features, you might want to consider some of the CX-9's competitors.
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