2018 Mazda CX-9 Touring AWD
The 2018 Mazda CX-9 Touring AWD is a seven-seat, three-row midsize crossover positioned between the entry-level Sport and more luxurious Grand Touring trims. It combines a torque-rich turbocharged four-cylinder engine, Mazda’s i-ACTIV all-wheel drive, leather-trimmed seating, and an unusually driver-focused chassis for a family SUV. Mazda USA Newsroom
Powertrain and driving character
Its 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder produces 227 hp on regular gasoline or 250 hp on 93-octane premium, along with a substantial 310 lb-ft of torque at 2,000 rpm. A six-speed automatic and predictive i-ACTIV AWD accompany Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control; the low-rpm torque and relatively responsive chassis are central to the CX-9's more engaging character compared with many three-row crossovers. Mazda USA Newsroom
Touring equipment
The Touring trim adds meaningful comfort equipment over the Sport, including leather-trimmed first- and second-row seating, heated front seats, power front seats, an 8-inch Mazda Connect display, power liftgate, keyless entry, rain-sensing wipers and heated exterior mirrors. For 2018 it also received lane-keeping assistance, lane-departure warning, high-beam control, radar cruise control and Smart Brake Support as standard equipment. Mazda USA Newsroom
Space and practicality
The CX-9 seats seven, although its third row is better suited to occasional use: third-row legroom is about 29.7 inches. Cargo capacity measures 14.4 cu. ft. behind the third row, 38.2 with it folded and 71.2 with both rear rows folded; maximum towing capacity is 3,500 lb. The Car Connection
Fuel economy and safety
AWD models were EPA-rated at 20 mpg city, 26 highway and 23 combined, using regular unleaded fuel. The 2018 CX-9 also earned a five-star overall NHTSA rating, while blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and low-speed Smart City Brake Support became standard across the range for that model year. Mazda USA Newsroom
Where it stands
The Touring AWD is arguably the sweet-spot configuration of the 2018 lineup: it adds leather, heated seats, power conveniences and the expanded driver-assistance suite without requiring the Grand Touring's luxury-oriented equipment. Its principal compromise is packaging—the third row and cargo area are relatively modest for a three-row SUV—while its strengths are the strong low-end torque, upscale cabin and responsive road manners. motortrend.com
