The 2020 Mazda CX-9 Sport FWD truly stands out in the crowded small SUV market. With its sleek design, spacious interior, and reliable performance, it’s no wonder that families and individuals alike are drawn to this vehicle. Whether you need a comfortable ride for daily commutes or family trips, the CX-9 delivers on all fronts. In this review, we’ll dive deep into its features, specs, pros, and cons, giving you a clear picture of what this Mazda has to offer.
Stylish Exterior Design
The exterior of the 2020 Mazda CX-9 Sport FWD is nothing short of eye-catching. Its bold lines and sculpted body create a sporty aesthetic that sets it apart from other vehicles in its class. The front end features a distinctive chrome grille, flanked by sleek LED headlights that provide excellent visibility while adding to the overall sophisticated look.
Measuring 199.4 inches in length with a width of 77.5 inches, the CX-9 presents a commanding road presence. The vehicle sits at a height of 67.6 inches, providing ample ground clearance while allowing for easy access to the cabin. The 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels with a gray metallic finish contribute to a premium feel, while the body-colored mirrors and door handles seamlessly blend into the vehicle’s design.
Comfortable and Spacious Interior
Step inside the 2020 Mazda CX-9, and you’re greeted by a well-appointed interior designed with comfort in mind. The vehicle comfortably seats up to seven passengers, making it perfect for family trips or carpooling with friends. The first row offers 39.3 inches of headroom and 41 inches of legroom, ensuring even taller drivers won’t feel cramped.
Second-row occupants enjoy 38.5 inches of headroom and 39.4 inches of legroom, while the third row provides a reasonable 35.4 inches of headroom and 29.7 inches of legroom. The CX-9’s interior volume of 135.1 cubic feet guarantees space for everyone, plus plenty of cargo capacity. Fold down the third row, and you get an impressive 71.2 cubic feet of cargo space—ideal for hauling sports equipment, luggage, or weekend getaway essentials.
Performance: Intelligent Turbocharged Engine
Under the hood, the 2020 Mazda CX-9 Sport FWD is powered by a 2.5L SKYACTIV-G turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This powerhouse delivers a robust 227 horsepower at 5,000 RPM and a whopping 310 lb-ft of torque at just 2,000 RPM, making it feel lively during both city driving and on the highway.
The 6-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, and with the front-wheel-drive system, the CX-9 channels its power effectively for great fuel economy. You can expect an EPA-rated 24 mpg combined, 22 mpg in the city, and 28 mpg on the highway—quite impressive for an SUV of this size and capability.
Driving Dynamics
One of the standout qualities of the CX-9 is its engaging driving dynamics. Mazda’s well-known philosophy of creating a ‘driver’s car’ shines through. The responsive steering and well-tuned suspension create a balanced ride, ensuring that you won’t just feel like you’re driving a large SUV—rather, you’ll feel in control as you tackle winding roads or highway merges.
Safety and Technology Features
Safety is paramount in the 2020 Mazda CX-9, receiving an overall 5-star safety rating. Equipped with a suite of advanced safety technologies, the vehicle includes features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist, which help prevent accidents and keep you aware of your surroundings.
Additionally, the CX-9 comes with a rearview camera, which is essential for parking and reversing, enhancing overall safety while using the vehicle. Combined with sturdy construction that features side impact beams and multiple airbags, you can drive with peace of mind, knowing that you and your loved ones are well-protected.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The 2020 Mazda CX-9 boasts the MAZDA CONNECT infotainment system, making it easy to stay connected on the go. The system features a 7.0-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming, and multiple USB inputs for charging your devices. You can even control everything through steering wheel-mounted controls, keeping distractions to a minimum.
With six speakers and the ability to integrate your favorite apps through Aha, Pandora, and Stitcher radio, your in-car entertainment experience is enjoyable and versatile.
Pros and Cons of the 2020 Mazda CX-9
Pros
- Sleek and stylish exterior design
- Spacious interior with excellent seating capacity
- Strong and efficient turbocharged engine
- Advanced safety features for peace of mind
- Engaging driving dynamics
- Easy-to-use infotainment system
Cons
- Third-row seating may feel tight for taller passengers
- Cargo space could be more versatile
- Price point may be high compared to some competitors
Final Thoughts
In the competitive small SUV market, the 2020 Mazda CX-9 Sport FWD truly shines by balancing stylish design, practical interior space, and exhilarating performance. Though it has some minor drawbacks, such as limited third-row comfort, the positives far outweigh the negatives. This SUV is well-suited for families looking to combine functionality with excitement. If you’re in the market for a spacious, stylish, and safe SUV, the Mazda CX-9 is certainly worth considering.
With a starting price around $34,990, this vehicle offers great value for its features and capabilities. All in all, the 2020 Mazda CX-9 blends style, comfort, and performance into one impressive package, making it a compelling choice for today’s drivers.
