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The Mazda CX-9 is a midsize SUV with plenty to offer for small families. The 2023 CX-9 comes in five different trim levels. Which CX-9 trims should you want, get, and pass on?

2023 Mazda CX9 Signature: Want

A gray 2023 Mazda CX-9 midsize SUV is driving on the road.
The Mazda CX-9 | Mazda

The 2023 Mazda CX9 Signature final trim level is predictably the trim to want. Why? Because of all the premium standard features, of course. Mazda knows how to produce quality SUVs, and the creature comforts and tech really start to shine in upper trim level models.

The CX-9 Signature starts at $48,460. It comes standard with second-row captain’s chairs, Nappa leather-trimmed seats, and heated front and second-row seats. It also includes a standard 360-view monitor, a power sliding-glass moonroof, and a hands-free rear power liftgate.

The 2023 Mazda CX-9 Signature is practically a luxury midsize SUV because of its premium standard features. It may be the most desirable CX-9 trim because of the ownership experience it provides, but is the CX-9 Signature the trim the average consumer should get? Probably not.

2023 Mazda CX-9 Touring: Get

A gray 2023 Mazda CX-9 is parked on the road.
The 2023 Mazda CX-9 | Mazda

The Mazda CX-9 Touring base model is the trim to get because of its incredible value proposition. Mazda SUVs like the small CX-5 and subcompact CX-30 are known for being more refined than their closest rivals. That extra touch of class often makes base model Mazda SUVs the best choice for consumers because these trims are affordable and luxurious.

The 2023 Mazda CX-9 Touring starts at $38,750. It comes standard with all-wheel drive. The midsize SUV also features standard Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop and Go. Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop and Go is an advanced form of cruise control that makes commuting and road trips easier.

It allows drivers to keep up with the flow of traffic with minimal effort. A feature this advanced is often reserved for upper trim level models. The CX-9 Touring includes standard heated side mirrors, an advanced keyless entry and start system, and leather-trimmed seats.

2023 Mazda CX-9 Touring Plus, Carbon Edition, Grand Touring: Pass

The interior of a 2023 Mazda CX-9.
The 2023 Mazda CX-9 interior | Mazda

The 2023 Mazda CX-9 comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It gets 20 miles per gallon in the city and 26 miles per gallon on the highway.

Its lack of engine options makes the CX-9 Touring the best option for the money. Pass on the Touring Plus, Carbon Edition, and Grand Touring if you can forego the extra creature comforts. Since the Touring is more refined than the average vehicle in its segment, the average consumer doesn’t need a higher trim level.

The 2023 Mazda CX-9 competes with the Kia Telluride, Honda Passport, and Chevrolet Traverse. U.S. News & World Report calls the CX-9 one of the top-five best midsize SUVs for 2022.

Read more about the best midsize SUV on the market, the Kia Telluride, in the next article below.

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