Mazda CX-9 2007 review

Even though the Mazda Tribute — a version of the Ford Escape compact SUV — has been on sale for years, SUVs don't come to mind when I think of Mazda. Instead, I see Miatas and RX-7s — sporty cars.

That said, Mazda took the right approach with the new seven-seat CX-9 crossover by giving it a sporty look that both reaffirms Mazda's brand image and is likely to appeal to more buyers than conventional SUVs do. Add a roomy interior, refined engine and transmission, and carlike handling, and the CX-9 is an attractive entry that seems more than able to hold its own against other full-size crossovers like the new Saturn Outlook.

See also:

Power Windows
* Some models. The ignition switch must be in the ON position for the power windows to operate. WARNING: Make sure the opening is clear before closing a window: Closing power windows are dange ...

Safety
All-disc antilock brakes and seat-mounted side-impact airbags are standard, as is a tire pressure monitoring system. Apart from an optional limited-slip differential, traction control and an elect ...

Exterior
The CX-9 manages to avoid the chunkiness of many SUVs, in part because of its angular nose and carlike grille. The crossover's shoulder line rises as it heads rearward, and the sides are free of c ...