In exciting news for Mazda owners, the 2021 and 2022 models of the Mazda CX-9 have been rated as best in class in safety by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The IIHS rated the CX-9 as a top safety pick in the midsize SUV class. Additionally, the CX-9 was the only vehicle in its class to receive a "good" rating, the highest awarded by the IIHS, in all crashworthiness tests. Clearly, this is a huge plus in the book of anybody looking for an SUV.
In addition to its safety, the CX-9's interior is also superb. The cabin is lined with soft touch plastics, rosewood, and brushed aluminum, giving the entire interior a luxurious look and feel. Both the second and third row of seats are spacious, so all passengers can travel in comfort. This also means that the storage space in the CX-9 is highly adjustable; the second and third rows can fold to create extra cargo space. In total, there is a total interior volume of 150 cubic feet, split up between 136 cubic feet of passenger space and 14 cubic feet of cargo space when all seats are up. Infotainment is controlled through a 10.3 inch digital console, through which the driver can control vehicle functions and connect their phone via both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. Bluetooth phone and streaming audio and HD radio also come as standard.
The performance of the CX-9 is also nothing to sneeze at. The turbocharged inline four cylinder, 2.5 liter engine easily keeps up with the gas-guzzling V-6's often found in other midsize SUVs. As a result, the CX-9 has a 0-60 mph time of 7.1 seconds, similar to other midsize SUVs like the Hyundai Palisade and Jeep Grand Cherokee, while still being EPA certified for a combined 23 mpg. The engine also produces a respectable 250 horsepower. Overall, the CX-9 punches well above its price in safety, comfort, and performance.
