Mazda North American Operations announced the EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings for the all-new 2016 Mazda CX-9, marking a significant leap in efficiency for midsize, three-row crossover SUVs. The 2016 CX-9 is certified to achieve an impressive 22 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway, and 25 mpg combined for front-wheel drive models. These figures position the 2016 CX-9 as a leader in its class, boasting best-in-class city and combined fuel economy among non-hybrid, midsize, three-row crossover SUVs, along with class-leading highway fuel economy.
This remarkable fuel efficiency represents a dramatic 32-percent improvement compared to the previous generation CX-9. The 2016 CX-9 integrates Mazda’s acclaimed SKYACTIV Technology, a suite of engineering innovations focused on lightweight design and enhanced efficiency, mirroring the approach taken with other 2016 models like the 2016 MX-5 Miata. Similar to the MX-5’s substantial fuel economy gains, the 2016 CX-9 benefits from significant weight reduction, while simultaneously offering enhanced features, more agile handling, and improved overall performance.
Robert Davis, Senior Vice President of U.S. Operations at MNAO, emphasized the balance achieved by Mazda, stating, “SKYACTIV Technology once again demonstrates there’s no need to compromise between driving enjoyment and frugality—even when it comes to hauling around your family. CX-9 elevates our brand with a host of new, advanced technology and luxury features but stays true to our company principles: lightweight, fun to drive, stylish and purposeful.”
At the heart of the 2016 CX-9 is the newly developed SKYACTIV-G 2.5T engine. This engine is engineered to deliver the robust power typically associated with a V-6 engine, but with significantly better fuel efficiency. Key to its performance is the innovative Dynamic Pressure Turbo, which ensures rapid power delivery, and a cooled exhaust gas recirculation system (EGR). This EGR system effectively reduces engine temperatures without requiring additional fuel enrichment, a common practice in many turbocharged engines. Unlike conventional turbocharged gasoline engines, the cooled EGR system in the 2016 CX-9 enhances real-world fuel efficiency without negatively impacting EPA fuel economy ratings.
The SKYACTIV-G 2.5T engine in the 2016 CX-9 produces a substantial 310 lb-ft of torque, readily available from just 2,000 rpm, and generates 250 horsepower at 5,000 rpm when using 93-octane gasoline (or 227 horsepower with 87-octane). It is paired with a responsive six-speed SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, while Mazda’s intelligent i-ACTIV all-wheel drive system is available as an option, providing drivers with enhanced confidence across diverse driving conditions. The i-ACTIV all-wheel drive system proactively distributes power by monitoring road and vehicle conditions over 200 times per second using 27 sensors, anticipating and mitigating potential traction loss before it’s even perceptible to the driver.
The i-ACTIV all-wheel drive system in the 2016 CX-9 is designed with a focus on lightweight construction, minimizing mechanical friction. This contributes to the vehicle’s impressive fuel economy figures, even in all-wheel drive configurations.
The official EPA-estimated MPG ratings for both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive 2016 CX-9 models are detailed below:
| EPA-Estimated MPG | |
|---|---|
| City | |
| FWD 2016 CX-9 | 22 |
| AWD 2016 CX-9 | 21 |
The 2016 Mazda CX-9 was slated to go on sale in late spring 2016. Final details regarding packaging and pricing were expected to be announced closer to the official on-sale date.
Mazda North American Operations, headquartered in Irvine, California, oversees Mazda’s operations in the United States and Mexico. For further information on Mazda vehicles, including media resources, please visit the Mazda media center at www.mazdausamedia.com.
Note: EPA-estimated fuel economy is based on a standard five-cycle test. Actual fuel economy will vary.
1 Class is defined as 2016 model year midsize, three-row, non-hybrid crossover sport utility vehicles available for sale in the United States.
2 Based on EPA-estimated highway fuel economy for most-efficient drivetrain options.
