Mazda CX-9 Luxury 2WD 2011 Review
Mazda's latest seven-seat CX-9 variant misses out on all-wheel drive, but little else...Road Test?
RRP: $51,725 (manufacturer's list price, excluding on-road costs and dealer delivery)
Options fitted to test car (not included in above price): Nil?
Crash rating: TBA?
Fuel: 91 RON ULP?
Claimed fuel economy (L/100km): 11?
CO2 emissions (g/km): 291
Also consider: Ford Territory, Toyota Kluger
With just about every maker of a softroader introducing a cheaper, two-wheel drive variant in recent times, Mazda has come fairly late to the ‘faux wheel drive’ party with the launch of its front-drive CX-9. But it’s still timely for a ‘cut price’ version of Mazda’s seven seat, mid-sized SUV -- with CX-9 sales down by 23 per cent in 2011 compared to the same period last year.
While pitched as a premium product since arriving in Australia in 2008, the lack of a competitively priced, sub-$50K variant of the CX-9 to compete with the influx of cheaper seven-seaters has not helped Mazda. Priced from $44,995, the range now starts with the front-drive CX-9 Classic which replaces the previous AWD Classic. There’s also a front-drive Luxury version (tested here), priced at $51,725. This is a substantial $4500 less than the same version available with all-wheel drive.
Both AWD and FWD Luxury variants of the CX-9 share the same engine, six-speed auto and equipment spec, but the 2WD Luxury is almost 100kg lighter – 1974kg versus 2071kg. While I can’t be sure, the 2WD CX-9 did feel a touch more wieldy than the AWD version I drove a few months ago, which is a bonus for an SUV renowned for its excellent road manners.
Surprisingly, given the significant weight difference, Mazda quotes very little difference in fuel consumption between the two: 11.0L/100km versus 11.2L/100km on the AWD model, which now has slightly better fuel economy. During the weeklong test, I managed 14.1L/100m during combined city/freeway driving, which in similar ‘real world’ conditions is not far off the 2WD Toyota Klugers and petrol Ford Territorys we’ve driven in the past.
The only other discernable difference with the 2WD CX-9 is the tendency to ‘chirp’ the front tyres from start-off, but only when being particularly heavy on the throttle. Which isn’t hard, as the refinement and almost instant response provided by the rorty V6 and six-speed auto encourages a bit of ‘hoonigalism’.
There’s no doubt all-wheel drive can be useful in slippery situations, but with the typical CX-9 buyer that’s probably only likely to be on wet bitumen. In most applications, the CX-9 has enough grunt in reserve (and sufficient grip) to cover any urban or highway situation without undue histrionics. The one time we did decide to ‘gun’ it when turning left from a T-intersection, the taut chassis and stability control comfortably coped.?
The big Mazda’s meaty Bridgestone Dueler rubber and numerous active safety aids do a good job of keeping the big softroader in check, and the ride quality/handling compromise is on a par with another of our favourites, Ford's Territory.
Ineed, the CX-9 is a good choice for those who need to juggle the demands of family, work and week-end, and do it in style and comfort. It’s an enjoyable vehicle to drive, compared to most peoplemovers, the wagon shrinking in size as you attack another gap in peak-hour traffic. Its bulk, though, does become an issue when trying to squeeze into tight spots in busy supermarket carparks, despite a good turning circle.
In Luxury trim, it’s well equipped with 20-inch alloy wheels, electric sunroof, dual-zone climate control, leather-covered, adjustable leather seats with three-position memory function, cruise control and a dash display with reverse camera.
Seating in the main is a highlight, with well-padded, supportive pews designed to keep you fresh for hours in the saddle. The Luxury’s multi-adjustable driver’s seat and steering wheel make finding the ideal position a breeze, and overall cabin feel is one of Euro class and functionality.
There’s some nice convenience items, like front memory seats, auto up/down windows, reverse tilt-down side mirrors, and a 10-speaker BOSE audio system (including boot-mounted sub-woofer) which arguably offers the best sound in its class. Missing is a seven-inch touchscreen with sat nav and Bluetooth with audio streaming, and you have to fork out another $2600 for this package.
The CX-9 2WD Luxury also loses points for the ‘token’ second row centre seat, which is narrow, hard and uncomfortable. Be aware too that the third row lacks sufficient legroom and headroom for those other than smaller bodies. Commendably, however, the third row seats are not your typical cardboard-thin fold outs. Size restrictions in mind, they are as comfy and well shaped as the rest.
There’s plenty of flexibility in regards to seating and cargo arrangements, including split, sliding rows and folding backrests, and at one stage 2.0m fishing rods ran up one side with two kids accommodated on second row seats. With its soft leather and plush carpet though, the cabin wouldn’t really stand up as a workhorse wagon.
At just over $50,000, the CX-9 Luxury 2WD brings an excellent family hauler within reach of more people. While it loses its all-wheel drive cachet, the CX-9’s overall poise means it shouldn’t be missed by most owners.
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