Mazda CX-9 2010 review

If you want an SUV with seven or more seats, your options start with compact crossovers — whose optional third-row seats are best left for punishing kids — and end with full-size truck-based SUVs, whose exterior bulk and gas mileage are punishing in their own right. In between is a healthy selection of mid- and full-size crossovers that includes the 2010 Mazda CX-9.

In a crowded class, the CX-9 distinguishes itself with a high-quality interior and more driving fun than you'd expect from a large, seven-seat crossover.

Competing on the small end with the seven-seat Toyota Highlander and on the large end with the Chevrolet Traverse, the CX-9 comes in three trim levels: Sport, Touring and Grand Touring. Front- and all-wheel drive are available at all three levels.

See also:

Lighting Control
Headlights To turn on the lights, turn the headlight switch on the end of the control lever. NOTE: To prevent discharging the battery, don't leave the lights on while the engine is off unless ...

Wiper Blades
CAUTION: Hot waxes applied by automatic car washers have been known to affect the wiper's ability to clean windows. To prevent damage to the wiper blades, don't use gasoline, kerosene, paint ...

Child Restraint Precautions
Mazda strongly urges the use of child-restraint systems for children small enough to use them. You are required by law to use a child-restraint system for children in the U.S. and Canada. Check ...