Since its debut in early 2006, the Mazda CX-9 has improved every year. But like almost everything else, it also grows more expensive with annual price increases and newly added upscale options. So, how much does a fully loaded 2023 Mazda CX-9 cost? And is it worth the price?

How much is a Mazda CX-9? 

The 2023 Mazda CX-9 comes in five trim levels, with starting prices ranging from $38,750 for the Touring AWD model to $48,460 for the CX-9 Signature AWD. Adding the $1,275 destination fee and nifty accessories — including all-weather floormats, a rear cargo tray, illuminated door sill trim plates, and rooftop storage — raises the range-topping Signature AWD price to $51,475, U.S. News reports.

You’re in luck if you like Jet Black Mica as an exterior color because it’s the only option included in the base price. Snowflake White Pearl Mica costs $395 extra, while premium colors Soul Red Crystal Metallic and Machine Gray Metallic add $595 each. Fortunately, the Signature AWD comes with Nappa leather seats and trim available in a few color combinations. 

2023 Mazda CX-9 trims and options

According to Mazda, every 2023 CX-9 has a 250-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder and all-wheel drive. 

The base-model Touring AWD trim features the following standard equipment:

• 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels
• LED headlights and taillights
• LED fog lights
• Rain-sensing windshield wipers
• Three-zone automatic climate control
• Three rows of seating for six with second-row captain’s chairs
• Heated front seats
• Rearview camera
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Stepping up to the Touring Plus AWD provides the following upgrades as standard features:

• 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels
• Aluminum roof rails
• Ventilated front seats
• 60/40 split-folding and reclining second-row seats

The CX-9 Carbon Edition AWD features a Polymetal Gray Metallic exterior with red leather upholstery inside, along with the following standard equipment upgrades over the Touring Plus AWD:

• Six-passenger seating with heated second-row captain’s chairs
• Automatic power-folding side mirrors
• Windshield wiper de-icer
• Heated steering wheel with paddle shifters
• Driver attention alert

The CX-9 Grand Touring AWD trim includes some of the upgrades introduced in the Carbon Edition AWD but changes the seating arrangement with a 60/40 split fold-down and reclining heated second row. In addition, the Grand Touring AWD features the same premium color options as the Signature AWD but also offers Deep Crystal Blue Mica and Sonic Silver Metallic in addition to the Jet Black Mica paint choices at no additional charge. 

The range-topping CX-9 Signature AWD adds a center console to the heated second-row captain’s chairs, Santos Rosewood inlays, and a 12-speaker Bose Centerpoint sound system. 

The Mazda CX-9 gets better every year

Mazda continues improving the CX-9. Some of the most notable refinements include the following:

• 2020: Standard advanced driver-assistance features 
• 2022: Standard AWD on all trims
• 2023: Dropped the Sport trim, making Touring the new base model with leather upholstery, second-row captain’s chairs, wireless device charging, and a moonroof as standard equipment.

Is the 2023 Mazda CX-9 price worth it?

The 2023 Mazda CX-9 Signature AWD, priced near $50,000, appeals to a particular market. However, the Touring AWD and Touring Plus AWD, priced on either side of $40,000, offer substantial luxury, excellent handling, and a spirited turbocharged engine at a more appealing price point.

However, if you seek a midsize SUV with spacious third-row seating for adults or expansive cargo space, you might want to check out the CX-9’s competition.