2023 Mazda CX-9

The CX-9 comes in five different trim levels, and they each have unique exterior features you'll need to consider when searching for the best fit. The base level is already fairly impressive, as the Touring trim comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels and LED headlights and taillights. The Touring Plus trim pushes things a bit further with 20-inch black metallic alloy wheels and a gloss-black grille finish. The special Carbon Edition of the CX-9 comes with handy features like adaptive LED headlights, automatic power-folding side mirrors, and a hands-free power liftgate. With the Grand Touring trim, you mostly get interior upgrades, while the Signature trim sports 20-inch bright silver alloy wheels and larger dual exhaust pipes. It even offers LED grille accent lighting for an extra bit of style.

Only one engine is available under the hood of the CX-9, but it's all the engine you'll ever need for this midsize SUV. It's a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that offers 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. If you opt for 93-octane gas, its output increases to 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. Either way, it's paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and comes with all-wheel drive standard.

Most vehicles in this class use a V-6 engine, but the CX-9's turbocharged four-cylinder offers reliable performance in addition to efficiency. Its acceleration is competitive, being able to go from zero to 60 miles per hour in just 7.1 seconds. The CX-9 also feels light despite its impressive power, as it offers notable responsiveness and comfort, even if you're going over bumps in the road.

The inside of the CX-9 is spacious, as you might expect, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo alike. Up to seven people can sit comfortably inside if you opt for the second-row bench seat. Getting the second-row captain's chairs, though, drops the seating capacity to six. Additionally, you'll find a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen standard that comes complete with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Even tri-zone automatic climate control is standard. In terms of cargo, you'll have 71.2 cubic feet of space in total with 38.2 cubic feet behind the second row.

Quite a few safety features come standard in all versions of the CX-9, so you can drive with peace of mind. These include lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control. Additionally, this midsize SUV earned a full five stars for its overall safety rating after extensive testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.