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2012 Mazda CX 9 (Courtesy of Mazda)
The Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring is an exciting SUV that seats seven in luxury. The Grand Touring has exceptional performance and handling. It is a people-mover that moves folks in a stylish and roomy manner that Mazda prides itself on.
The Grand Touring features a 3.7L V-6 DOHC 24-valve engine that possess 273 hp, 270 lb.-ft. torque and a 6-speed-sport that has active torque split AWD. In city, expect up to 19 mpg and as much as 26 mpg highway.
Inside, Mazda has dedicated itself to craftsmanship. The Mazda I drove had a base price of $34,788. It had the optional 9-inch Rear Seat Entertainment System with SiriusXM satellite radio, DVD player, 5.1 surround sound and 11 speakers.
On top of that, numerous leather features and a Navigation System with voice command and real-time traffic brought the price to $40,850. However, leather-trimmed seats that include an 8-way power adjustable heated driver’s seat and heated front passenger seat are all standard features.
Outside, the beautifully sculpted body lines flow from the stylish headlights all the way to the spectacular taillights. So whether you are coming or going, you are going to look great.
The interior of the CX 9 (Courtesy of Mazda)
The March 2011 issue of Motor Trend Magazine said, “The scrappy fantastic driving Mazda CX-9 is still the best 7-seat passenger SUV you can buy.” And last August, Car and Driver Magazine gave their 2011 Editor’s Choice Award to this mid-size SUV.
The inside feature that I liked the most was the space behind the first and second rows, while the third row legroom was greater than competitors like Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander.
The added third row storage bins are large enough to hold electronic games and controls for the grandkids. Eight cup holders and four one-liter bottle holders allow plenty of room for soda and bottled water.
A Blind Spot Monitoring system, six standard airbags, roll stability control, front active headrests, triple “H” body construction, and enhanced stability control are some of the ways Mazda engineers provide the driver with peace of mind.
The anti-theft engine immobilizer and anti-theft alarm help to keep the bad guys away from your Mazda. These safety and anti-theft features are standard equipment for the Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring.
This Mazda sits and feels good to drive. I would like to see a little bit more room in the front seats and better mileage in the city.
Mazda is stylish and filled with great technologies. However, to become more competitive with domestic brands there needs to be more emphasis on bringing down unit prices.
Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this newspaper or dcaussey@sbcglobal.net.
