2020 Mazda CX-9: Premium feel without the premium price

The midsize three-row SUV segment is an increasingly competitive one. In order to be aggressive, Mazda has taken a different road to capture the attention of would-be buyers. Unlike the competition, Mazda does not simply offer luxury features as options to dress up an otherwise mundane SUV. The CX-9 is a premium vehicle for the masses that delivers a heightened ownership experience.

The Mazda CX-9 looks like no other tree-row SUV because it is not designed as a box on wheels with three rows of seating. As one of the first SUVs in our lineup to be heavily influenced by our revitalized Kodo design language, the CX-9 is more akin to a large rolling sculpture the more you look at it. Its fluid purposeful body lines are a thing of elegance but do not be fooled into thinking that the CX-9 cannot be as capable as its segment colleagues.

For 2020, the CX-9 now offers both a 6- and 7-passenger configuration thanks to the addition of new second row captain’s chairs. When the third row is stowed, the trunk can accommodate nearly 1,100 liters of gear. The cabin not only includes numerous storage areas but is replete with a plethora of standard infotainment features including a 7-inch screen with Mazda Connect, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Despite the long list of accessories included even in the most basic GS trim, the different surfaces, textures, materials and attention to detail are elements that you will not find as expressly developed in the CX-9’s competitive set. Moving up the grade ladder adds Nappa leather upholstery, satin chrome-plated switches and genuine Santos Rosewood accents.

While the 2020 Mazda CX-9’s design is unmatched, its powertrain is equally singular. The standard turbocharged Skyactiv-G 2.5T engine delivers up to 320 lb.-ft. of torque and 250 horsepower when on 93 octane petrol (310 and 227 respectively on 87 octane petrol). Also included are a six-speed Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission and Mazda's predictive i-Activ all-wheel drive system.

For the 2020 model year, the CX-9 also gains an all-new off-road traction assist feature for when taking the road less travelled. G-Vectoring Control Plus is also standard for an enhanced driving experienced when sticking to the beaten path.

Finally, and on top of a number of new premium features, the 2020 CX-9 is endowed with Mazda's full suite of i-Activsense safety elements including Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Smart City Brake Support with pedestrian detection (forward sensing) and far more.

At $40,000, the 2020 Mazda CX-9 has no equivalent unless it's a premium luxury product.