Most people wouldn’t expect exhilaration or enthusiasm while driving a 7-seater cross-over, but in the case of the 2021 Mazda CX-9, the rules don’t apply. Sharp handling and peppy acceleration are amongst the trademarks of the Mazda brand in itself, and despite its larger 7-seat form factor, the 2021 CX-9 definitely takes these rules to heart. Above all is a well-crafted interior boasting premium qualities to a point just a tier below the luxury realm – that’s if you opt for the GT trim and up.
FEATURES AND TRIMS
For 2021, the Mazda CX-9 adds a top-of-the-line Kuro and 100th anniversary trim that offers unique aesthetic upgrades with a Polymodal Gray or Jet Black Micra exterior paint colour with glossy black accents on the side mirrors. The upgraded 20” wheels also receive a jet black or metallic gray aluminum alloy finish. The Kuro edition gets Garnet Red leather trimmed seats, red leather stitching and Captain’s chairs for the second row seats.
GT trims and up get a larger 9” infotainment touch screen, larger 20” wheels and various levels of interior cosmetic upgrades. Entry level trims including the GS, and GX trims get a smaller 7” infotainment screen and smaller 18” wheels, but Android Auto and Apply Car Play compatibility along with a standard 2.5L turbocharged Skyactiv engine, i-Activ all-wheel drive and G-Vector Control.
INTERIOR
The CX-9’s cabin’s cabin may not be as daring as other alternatives, but its premium finishing, quilted leatherette seats and excellent noise isolation continues to impress.
The Kuro, Signature and 100th anniversary trims get the second-row seats fitted with more luxury captain’s chair offering more overall space, and ease of access. Third row seats three smaller sized passengers with the option to fold down electronically in a 60/40 split configuration to create additional cargo space.
The well laid-out dash is intuitive and sharp, while the high quality soft-touch materials bring a luxurious look and feel to the overall refined interior.
ENGINE AND DRIVE
Performance on the 2021 CX-9 remains competitively intact with its trusty turbocharged 2.5L Skyactiv 4 cylinder engine outputting 227 horsepower and 310 lb.ft of torque. Filling up the tank with 93 octane boosts its output up to 250 horsepower and 320 b.ft. All trims will receive a standard 6-speed automatic transmission and only all-wheel drive configuration is offered.
Mazda has also introduced a few technological features to improve driving responsiveness with its Dynamic Pressure Turbo system and G-Vector Control Plus system. The result is more linear acceleration and better handling performance from its i-Activ all-wheel drive system.
Road test in the CX-9 reveals snappy handling and peppy acceleration thanks to its turbocharged 2.5L Skyactiv engine. Despite its larger form factor, the CX-9 remains well composed around corners with the help of the G-Vector control plus system that delivers more torque on the outside rear wheels. Good cabin sound isolation is an additional accolade in both city and highway driving.
EPA fuel economy scores in at 11.6/9.1 L/100km for city and highway respectively. While these are respectable numbers for a large SUV, it seems Mazda still has no intentions of offering more fuel-efficient alternatives such as hybrids of EVs.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The 2021 Mazda CX-9 continues to be an attractive choice offering exquisite styling, luxury and performance at a price tiered below the luxury level. The Kuro trim configured with Garnet Red leather seats, and Captain’s second row seating can be had for $50,150 while the Signature trim comes in slightly more at $51,850, to get you Nappa leather trimmed upholstery, quilted seats, and Rosewood center console panels and door finishes. More conservative buyers can opt for the base GS trim with basic amenities including a smaller 7” infotainment screen, 18” wheels and cloth upholstery.
