So, it has happened: Russian sales of the Mazda CX-9 will start right after the Moscow Auto Show, in September 2008. This crossover, which was originally made exclusively for the States, will get a boosted engine in the version for Russia. Under the hood of the huge "CX" will be a 3.7-liter V6 "six" producing 273 horsepower.
The CX-9 and CX-7 have a lot in common. They share not only design, but also platforms, and the very history of creation — both models were designed for America. However, if the CX-7 fits quite organically into the European Mazda lineup, its "big sister" clearly stands out from the usual Old World ideas about crossovers. And it's all about the dimensions. The car is not just large, it is gigantic: in size, the CX-9 closely approaches such monsters as the Audi Q7, Mercedes-Benz GL-class, or Chevrolet Tahoe!
Among these cars, there is not a single direct competitor for Mazda, but in spirit it is closest to the Audi Q7. Like the Bavarian SUV, the CX-9 is designed for fast travel on quality surfaces. Despite the fact that the curb weight of the "Japanese" exceeds two tons, it briskly accelerates and responds well to the steering wheel. The CX-7 demonstrates similar behavior, but due to the greater weight and elongated body, the "nine's" manners lack that youthful zest: the car rides noticeably smoother and does not react as sharply to road irregularities.
2008 Mazda CX-9
© Photo: Mazda
The interior also speaks of a different character of the CX-9. The front panel here is deliberately strict. The central console with climate control and media system buttons aligned along a ruler does not protrude with a daring "chin" like the CX-7, but smoothly flows into a wide tunnel. And even such a trifle as the shape of the air deflectors or the platform under the gear selector (the circle has been replaced by a rectangle) changes the perception of the car: this is no longer "sport", but "classic".
In the five-meter body of the CX-9, three rows of seats are placed, and there was enough space for everyone, including passengers in the gallery. True, it is unclear who needs this third row at all. In the same America, where there are more cars than people, there is no need to keep such a "bus" in the family. Everything could be attributed to marketing tricks, if not for one "but": when the third-row seats are folded, the trunk becomes too huge. If a can rolls out of a bag of groceries, getting it out of such a "cave" will be quite a task.
Probably, only Russians can understand the American passion for huge cars. Therefore, Russia will become one of the few countries where the CX-9 will appear. True, if in the USA the top version can be taken for less than $35 thousand, then Russians, according to preliminary data, will have to pay almost twice as much. However, even at that price, there is simply no analogue for it on our market.
News from across the ocean
2008 Mazda CX-9
© Photo: Mazda
In the States, the CX-9 has been sold for a long time and has managed to win the love of local drivers. Readers of the most authoritative North American automotive publication Motor Trend recognized it as "SUV of the Year", beating eleven rivals. And according to the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the model earned the highest score for passenger protection in frontal and side impacts.
2008 Mazda CX-9
© Photo: Mazda
Driving
The car pleases with excellent acceleration dynamics. The steering wheel is sharp and informative.
Interior
In terms of interior space, the CX-9 can easily compete with minivans.
Comfort
Solid curb weight and a long wheelbase provide excellent ride smoothness.
Safety
Standard equipment includes 6 airbags, as well as systems for controlling wheel locking, skidding, traction, and rollover.
Price
The new Mazda is not cheap, but even for that money there is no alternative to it.
| Dimensions, mm | 5071/1936/1729 |
| Engine | petrol, V6, 3726 cm3, 273 hp/6250, 339/4500 Nm/rpm |
| Transmission | automatic, 6-speed |
| 0-100 km/h, s | n/a |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 192 |
| Competitors | Audi Q7, Chevrolet Tahoe, Mercedes-Benz GL-class |
Pros and cons
+ Sharp handling combined with a comfortable suspension. Spacious 7-seat interior. Huge trunk.
- No engine choice.
Our verdict
This model is for those who put the size of the car on one scale with handling and dynamics. There are not many 5-meter SUVs in the world that can bring driving pleasure, and the Mazda CX-9 is one of them. It is quite possible that the version adapted for Russia will become even better than the "American".