2017 Mazda CX-9

The three-row Mazda CX-9 has been redesigned for 2017, and has significantly improved from its predecessor. It is powered by an all-new 2.5-liter Skyactiv turbo-four producing 250 horses and 310 foot-pounds of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard while all-wheel drive is optional. There is a slight difference between the two versions when it comes to fuel economy, with the former rated at 22/28 mpg city/hwy and the latter at 21/27 mpg. These numbers make the new CX-9 the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid three-row crossover on the market. It is also one of the most stylish and underrated vehicles in its class. The second-gen CX-9 is offered in four trims: Sport, Touring, Grand Touring, and the all-new, top-of-the-line Signature. The Signature model makes the cabin seem like that of a Lexus; it is laden in legitimate rosewood trim, French-stitched detailing, and nappa leather. Mazdas are known for relatively high interior noise levels, but this has significantly decreased thanks partly to acoustic-laminated glass in the front windows and 53 lbs. of sound-quieting material in the floor. The new CX-9's length is 1.2 inches shorter than its predecessor, while its wheelbase measures 2.2 inches longer. Third-row access has been improved to where a single lever can easily shift the second row aside. Pricing for the 2017 Mazda CX-9 begins at $32,450 and tops out at $44,915. Mazda's flagship crossover is a great vehicle; however, I'm anticipating Mazdaspeed variants of the 3, 6, and MX-5 Miata, along with a reborn RX-7 more than the arrival of this vehicle in showrooms. In other words, the 3, 6, and Miata in Mazdaspeed form are expected in a few years' time, but no one knows whether there will be another RX rotary sports car.