Features

When you test cars for a living, it's easy to fall for them from the driver's seat. Testing a new Mercedes or even a new Toyota can be great — until you see the price. Yes, we get sticker shock, too, especially because the test cars we get are often loaded with every option.

The i Touring Plus trim is interesting because it's not offered with any options. For $23,750, you get an automatic transmission, a moonroof, a power driver's seat, 17-inch wheels, Bluetooth, a backup camera, a USB port, and a blind spot monitoring system. That's a heavy dose of features, especially the blind spot system, which can be a $1,500-plus option on other cars — and they're usually of the luxury variety.

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    Exterior
    The CX-9 manages to avoid the chunkiness of many SUVs, in part because of its angular nose and car-like honeycomb grille. The SUV's beltline rises as it heads rearward, and the sides are free of c ...

    Cargo
    Mazda has done a nice job arranging the CX-7's cargo area. The space measures 29.9 cubic feet with the backseat up and 58.6 cubic feet when it's folded, but perhaps more importantly, the few intru ...

    Operating Tips
    Operating the Climate Control System Operate the climate control system with the engine running. NOTE: To prevent the battery from being discharged, do not leave the fan control dial on for a lo ...