The Mazda CX-9 is a solid SUV that’s great for singles, small families, and larger ones too. It’s even one of the best new or used SUVs for teenagers. Here’s what makes the CX-9 so fantastic and which model years are the most reliable.

Is the CX-9 a reliable car?

Consumer Reports’ used Mazda CX-9 reliability ratings show good things for this SUV. The 2018 and 2019 model years have a reliability rating of 4/5 while the 2020 and 2021 Mazda CX-9 both have perfect reliability ratings. The predicted reliability rating for the 2022 Mazda CX-9 is also a perfect 5/5.

However, if you look before 2018 the reliability ratings aren’t quite as good. The 2017 Mazda CX-9 model year has a not-great 2/5 reliability rating. the 2016 model year is slightly better, at a 3/5. The 2015 model year wasn’t texted, but the 2014 CX-9 also has a great rating of 4/5.

A used Mazda CX-9 is a great SUV for teenagers

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) tests vehicles and conducts research on driving and safety. It releases a list of the safest vehicles for teenagers every year. Used CX-9 models are on the list of the best used vehicle choices. The safest ones for teenagers are those that are built after November 2016, model years 2017 or newer.

In addition, the 2021 Mazda CX-9 is on the IIHS’ list of the safest new SUVs for teenagers. The IIHS hasn’t released its list of the 2022 SUVs that make the grade, but you can check their website to find the latest on the safest vehicles for you and your family.

The 2022 Mazda CX-9 has good ratings too

Consumer Reports gives the 2022 Mazda CX-9 an overall score of 84/100 and a road test score of 79.100. It has a predicted owner satisfaction score of 3/5 which isn’t great, but isn’t terrible, either. That may have to do with its pric; the 2022 Mazda CX-9 price starts at $35,280 while less-expensive three-row SUVs the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride offer better scores for less money.

The comfort and convenience of the CX-9 is especially high. Consumer Reports gives it a 4/5 for its ride and noise as well as the front seat comfort. Rear seat comfort gets a perfect 5/5, making this a great SUV for families with kids. In addition, the interior fit and finish is a 4/5 and the trunk and cargo area scores a 3/5.

The Mazda CX-9 comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 227 hp and 310 hp matched to a six-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is standard in the 2022 CX-9 and it gets 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

Overall, the Mazda CX-9 is a top-notch SUV whether you buy it brand new or used. And with the car market being the way it is now and both new and used SUVs being increasingly difficult to find, it’s nice to know that you have so many options with the CX-9 – for yourself and your teen driver.