2010 Mazda CX-9 highlights from Consumer Guide Automotive. Learn about the 2010 Mazda CX-9 and see 2010 Mazda CX-9 pictures.The 2010 Mazda CX-9 receives slightly freshened exterior and interior styling. This crossover SUV seats up to seven and shares some of its basic design with the Ford Edge. CX-9 continues to come in Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring trim levels, each available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The sole powertrain is a 273-hp 3.7-liter V6 engine and 6-speed automatic transmission. Maximum towing capacity is 3500 lb. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Seating includes folding benches; the 2nd row splits 60/40, the 3rd row 50/50. The 2nd-row seat reclines and slides fore and aft to favor passenger or cargo space. Tri-zone climate control and a tilt and telescopic steering wheel are standard on all models, along with a wireless cell phone link. Tourings have leather upholstery and heated power front seats. Grand Tourings include blind-spot alert, xenon headlights, keyless access and engine start, and 20-inch wheels vs 18s. A sunroof and DVD entertainment remain optional, but they cannot be ordered together. A navigation system is optional on Grand Touring.
The 2010 CX-9 is powered by a 273-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 engine, making the most complex pursuits as easy and as pleasurable as possible. The 60-degree short-stroke V6 is state-of-the-art throughout. Advanced features include a die-cast aluminum block with cast-in iron cylinder liners and aluminum cylinder heads for minimal weight. The valvetrain includes chain-driven dual overhead camshafts for minimal maintenance, four valves-per-cylinder with direct acting bucket-type actuators, and variable intake valve timing. A high 10.3:1 compression ratio maximizes efficiency and power output while the throttle is electronically controlled for instantaneous response. Two close-coupled catalytic converters cleanse the exhaust without inhibiting power.
The CX-9 is doing things differently, but it's also doing things right. Reviewers love its attractive exterior, nimble performance and safety features. Still, many traditional large SUV buyers may be put off with its limited towing capacity and a ride that some reviewers call stiff. If the CX-9 isn't brawny enough to handle your needs, check out the more-capable Chevrolet Tahoe. If you like the CX-9, compare it to other large crossovers like the GMC Acadia and Ford Flex. Both cost about the same as the CX-9, seat just as many, and get slightly better gas mileage.
For 2010, the CX-9 gets a slight refresh. The exterior styling has been updated, as have a few of the interior features. New upholstery and trim are offered, and a few convenience features, like the heated seats and key fob, on the higher trims have been upgraded. The available rearview camera also has a wider viewing angle, and the navigation system's LCD display is slightly larger than before. Mechanically, the CX-9 is pretty much unchanged.
