On the Road
Even with its 20-inch wheels, our Grand Touring rode reasonably comfortably, but it's a bit firmer than some. With that firmness comes pretty entertaining handling, with precise steering and a good feel to the wheel. While I'd characterize the CX-9 as one of the sportier three-row crossovers out there, don't get the impression that it's a sport wagon. It's large, and opportunities to drive it in a spirited fashion seldom present themselves.
The CX-9's acceleration truly surprises, especially in a Grand Touring weighed down with all-wheel drive and lots of features. Teamed with a six-speed automatic transmission, the 3.7-liter V-6 has plenty of power: 273 horsepower and, perhaps more important, 270 pounds-feet of torque, which gives it an urgent launch from a standing start.
On slick surfaces, I noticed some initial front-wheel slip before the traction control kicked in and the rear wheels played their part. Some all-wheel-drive systems are more seamless. In the practical sense, this quirk is of no consequence to most drivers.
See also:
Vehicle Loading
This section will guide you in the proper loading of your vehicle and/or
trailer, to keep
your loaded vehicle weight within its design rating capability, with or without
a trailer.
Properly load ...
Engine Oil
NOTE.
Changing the engine oil should be done by an
Authorized Mazda Dealer.
Recommended Oil
Use SAE 5W-20 engine oil.
Oil container labels provide important
information.
A chief contribution th ...
Safety
Front dual airbags come standard, and side-impact and side curtain airbags
are optional. All-disc antilock brakes with brake assist are standard on s
models and optional on i models. Traction cont ...