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2021 Mazda CX-9 on a road through the woods

The 2021 Mazda CX-9 Signature Hits With the Zoom Zoom

Audio By Carbonatix Mazda is one mainstream brand that’s incredibly enticing. Not only is Mazda, one of the most reliable brands, but its focus on luxury at a valued price makes it even more compelling. One of the carmaker’s most tempting buys is the new 2021 Mazda CX-9. A standard CX-9 gives you plenty, but if you can …
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Mazda is one mainstream brand that’s incredibly enticing. Not only is Mazda, one of the most reliable brands, but its focus on luxury at a valued price makes it even more compelling. One of the carmaker’s most tempting buys is the new 2021 Mazda CX-9. A standard CX-9 gives you plenty, but if you can afford to splurge, you’ll want the Signature model.

About the 2021 Mazda CX-9 Signature 

2021 Mazda CX-9 on a road through the woods
2021 Mazda CX-9 | Mazda

On the outside, you’ll be able to distinguish a CX-9 Signature model by its front grille with Mazda’s Titanium Gray Metallic finish, chrome molding, and aluminum roof rails. Once you get inside the cabin, the top-of-the-line Signature trim will make you think you’re riding in a Mercedes. Signature models have luxe trimmings, including quilted premium leather upholstery and real wood trim. You also get more frills such as overhead LED accent lighting, privacy glass, and a power-sliding glass moon-roof. Pricing starts at $46,605.

Second-row seat of the 2021 Mazda CX-9 with quilted leather.
2021 Mazda CX-9 with captain’s chairs | Mazda

Signature models come with second-row captain’s chairs and a center console. Compared to the regular second-row bench, the captain’s chair’s setup provides easier access to the third-row. The only thing you may not like about this configuration is that it reduces seating capacity from seven to six.  

Side-view of the CX-9 front row.
2021 Mazda CX-9 front-row seat | Mazda

Overall, the CX-9 is comfortable to ride in, but its interior space is on the slim side compared to other midsize SUVs. The available cargo room is also limited. The CX-9 redeems itself in the tech department, though. All models now come with a 10.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additionally, advanced safety features, including forward-collision warning and blind-spot monitoring, are standard. Naturally, Signature models come with more gadgets, such as a surround-view camera system. 

Does the CX-9 Signature trim come with any performance enhancements?

All CX-9s come with the same powertrain that consists of a turbocharged 227-hp four-cylinder and a six-speed automatic. What makes the Signature edition more impressive is that it comes with Mazda’s i-ACTIV AWD with Off-road Traction Assist. This AWD system allows you to feel more comfortable in challenging road conditions, including snow. It also helps to optimize fuel economy. CX-9s with AWD have an EPA rating of 23 mpg overall, which is average for the midsize SUV class.

While the CX-9 isn’t the most potent option in the class, it has no problem reaching higher speeds. Critics especially recognize the CX-9 for its sharp handling, which lives up to Mazda’s “Zoom-Zoom” catchphrase. The CX-9’s ride comfort also makes it more reminiscent of an actual luxury car. 

“Most midsized three-row SUVs feel rather mundane to drive. By contrast, the CX-9 feels alert and hunkered-down when driving through the corners. As such, its driving experience leans more toward a German luxury SUV than a lumbering box.”

Consumer Reports

Reliability is an even greater selling point

A Mazda CX-9 on display at an auto show
A Mazda CX-9 on display | Cameron Spencer/Getty Images

An advantage the CX-9 has over its mainstream and luxury competitors is reliability. Consumer Reports gave the 2021 Mazda CX-9 an above-average score or predicted reliability. This ranking indicates that you’ll have a more enjoyable ownership experience and fewer trouble spots. 

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