In a sea of well-equipped SUVs and crossovers that offer three rows of seats, what makes Mazda's CX-9 stand out?
Looking through the spec sheet, nothing jumps out at us, though Mazda does point out a new, larger infotainment screen has been standardized across all trims. A new "Carbon Edition" has also been added to the lineup, offering a sportier image for the CX-9.
Mazda notes a number of aesthetic changes, both inside and out, for the specific trim we drove—the top-of-the-line Signature. Those include new wheels, larger tailpipes, added quilting to the seats, and even new trim on a few interior surfaces.
Perhaps the CX-9 stands out for its driving dynamics? To find out, you'll have to read our driving impressions below.
![](https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/prod.mm.com/uploads/2021/04/01/1617288477_2021-cx-9_08-2_mmthumb.jpg)
Other staff views
David S. Wallens
Editorial Director
Mash this one together with the CX-30 and you’d have things going pretty well: The CX-30 offers way better headlights, but the CX-9 has a better transmission.
The CX-9 also doesn’t “drive big” for a three-row SUV. It feels tidy, like it’s the right size. It just happens to have room for a bunch of people.
The big question: Is it more exciting than the offerings from Korea?
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