2008 Mazda CX-9

While a great drive is nice in a crossover, they still earn their keep based on their utility, room and comfort. It certainly is roomy. That 113.2-inch wheelbase—one of the longest in its class—translates to exceptional legroom, especially in the third row, which is still kids-only in many other 3-row SUVs. The rear doors are a bit long in the CX-9, which can be a bit cumbersome in tight parking quarters, but the payoff is easy access to 2nd and 3rd rows.


Cargo space is generous too, with 17.2 cubic feet with all rows up, 48.4 cubic feet with the 50/50 split rear seat dropped—an easy one-handed affair—and a cavernous 100.7 cubic feet with the 60/40 split 2nd row seat folded. We were pleased to find how spacious it was, but were really impressed with the high-quality feel and conveniences in the CX-9's handsome cabin.

Utility

Sit behind the sporty leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel and take in handsome electro-luminescent gauges with red indicators bathed in a stylish cool blue glow. On Grand Touring models like our tester, the center console is bookended by two rich looking slabs of wood with brushed silver trim that is also echoed in the door panels. The controls themselves are simple and easy to use—no mean feat with such advanced goodies including a voice-activated DVD navigation system with 7-inch screen, rearview camera, and three-zone climate control.


Also close at hand was the 10-speaker, 277- watt Bose centerpoint sound system, which sounded fantastic, whether you were using the 6-disc CD changer, Sirius satellite radio, or plugging in your iPod into the auxiliary audio jack. If we have any disgruntlement with the CX-9, it's a small one. Because of the system's design, if you want the optional rear entertainment system with the jumbo 9-inch LCD monitor and 5.1 Dolby surround system, you have to forego the power moonroof.

Interior

While we may quibble on the high-end details, Mazda certainly doesn't short-change you on the safety equipment. We're big believers in avoiding an accident in the first place, so we'll give kudos to the CX-9's responsive powertrain and suspension to keep you out of harm's way. Also on the active side of things, you get both standard Dynamic Stability Control and an advanced Roll Stability Control (RSC) system to help keep the shiny side up and pointing in the right direction. A dash-mounted tire pressure warning system is also handy.