Auto Guide
2021 Mazda CX-9
Used

Review and specifications

2021 Mazda CX-9

Mazda's CX-9 is a stylish three-row SUV that is quite engaging to drive. Power comes from a responsive, free-revving 227-hp, 2.5-liter turbo four-cylinder mated to a smooth six-speed automatic. This engine is rated at 250 hp if you use premium fuel, but there's no reason to do so; it puts out plenty of power on regular. We got an impressive 22 mpg overall. Mazda's flagship SUV has nimble handling that makes it feel like a smaller vehicle. The ride is very comfortable, and the cabin is commendably quiet. The interior is well-finished, particularly on high-end trims, and features comfortable seats, but the cockpit is snug and power-seat adjustments are limited. Mazda's dial-controlled infotainment system takes time to master. Updates for 2018 included standard forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot warning. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities were added to the infotainment system for 2019. Slight suspension tweaks and noise reduction measures were also new. For 2020, captain's chairs in the second row are optional on Touring and Grand Touring. Pedestrian detection is standard. Updates for 2021 included a new infotainment system, but we found it more difficult to use. All-wheel drive is standard for 2022. 2023 is the final year for the CX-9 replaced by the CX-90.

Market value
$19,775
Fuel
Conventional
Transmission
Automatic
Seats
7
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Model year 2021
Owner rating 3/5
Reliability 2/5
Data updated December 4, 2025

At a glance

Model data

Overview

Powertrain
Conventional
Body style
4-door SUV
Drive type
AWD
Transmission
Automatic, 6-speed
Category
Midsized SUVs 3-row
Generation began
2016

Pricing

Current retail median
$19,775
Retail value range
$15,900 - $22,625
Original MSRP range
$34,160 - $46,805
Trade-in range
$12,970 - $20,880

Ratings

Road test score
77/100
Owner satisfaction
3/5
Would buy again
57%
Reliability
2/5

Fuel economy

EPA city
21 MPG
EPA highway
27 MPG
EPA combined
23 MPG
Tested city
15 MPG
Tested highway
32 MPG
Tested overall
22 MPG
Annual fuel cost
$1,745
Cruising range
450 miles

Road tests

0-30 mph
3.1 sec
0-60 mph
7.9 sec
60-0 mph braking
139 ft
Avoidance speed
50 mph
Test status
Test Completed

Dimensions

Length
200 in
Width
76 in
Height
68 in
Wheelbase
113 in
Weight
4,585 lb
Maximum load
1,190 lb
Towing capacity
3,500 lb

Interior

Seating
7 people
Front head room
5 in
Front leg room
42.5 in
Rear head room
4.5 in
Rear leg room
31 in
Cargo volume
34 cu ft

Owner feedback

Comfort
3/5
Driving
4/5
Styling
5/5
Value
2/5

Environmental impact

Air pollution score
5/10
Greenhouse gas score
5/10
SmartWay
No

Brand context

About Mazda

Most Mazdas are affordable, fun to drive, and look good inside and out. Many of its crossovers, SUVs, and sedans have earned Consumer Reports’ recommendations and above-average reliability ratings. Used Mazdas are usually a good option for an affordable pre-owned car. Mazda’s two- and three-row SUVs, identified by CX in the name, are consistently near the top of our ratings. Some Mazdas are available as plug-in hybrids that are capable of useful amounts of electric-only driving range. Most Mazdas achieve solid, but not exceptional fuel economy. Though sports cars are less popular now than decades before, Mazda still sells the MX-5 Miata, one of the best of the few remaining enthusiast cars.

Vehicle ID: 20147 First published: November 19, 2020 Updated: December 4, 2025

Values may vary by trim, options, location, and market conditions.

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