In response to market demands, Mazda Motor Corp. has introduces the CX-7's bigger brother, the CX-9.
With room for seven and plenty of Mazda's signature 'zoom-zoom,' the CX-9 is one potent crossover.
The CX-9 foregoes the CX-7s turbocharged 2.3l I4 in favor of a 3.5L V6 that puts out 263 horsepower and 249 lb-ft of torque that is mated to a six speed automatic. Estimated 0-60 mph time is 9.0 seconds, which isn't bad for a vehicle this size. Estimated combined EPA fuel economy is 19mpg.
It is interesting to note that there are no crossovers on the market right now that offer 7-passenger seating, and the CX-9 is poised to take market share from both minivans and SUVs.
The CX-9 goes on sale in January and will be priced in the $30,000-40,000 range.
Our take? Truck-based SUVs are out and car-based crossovers are in. Fuel economy is on par with the competition. Should be a success.