2016 Mazda CX-9

“Soul of Motion” Describes More Than Just the Styling.

- Gary Witzenburg

Mazda is transitioning from a mainstream brand known for sporty styling and agile dynamics to a premium Japanese maker adding eager performance and class-leading efficiency across its line. A few years ago, it was subcompact Mazda2, compact Mazda3 and midsize Mazda6 sedans, iconic MX-5 Miata two-seat sports cars, Mazda5 mini-minivans, and CX-9 three-row CUVs. All were likeable, and the first CX-9 won both Motor Trend and North American Truck of the Year, but there was little in common among them to build the brand.

Now the Mazda2 and 5 are gone, the 3 and 6 are more refined, two well-received new CUVs (subcompact CX-3 and compact CX-5) have been added, the MX-5 Miata is all new, and this equally all-new three-row CX-9 CUV has arrived to top off the line. All six boast eye pleasing looks with Mazda’s “Soul of Motion” design ethos, fun-to-drive character, and willing, yet frugal, new power trains under the Mazda SKYACTIV label.