Unveiling the 2016 Mazda CX-9: Price, Features, and Specs of the Premium SUV

Mazda North American Operations announced the pricing and packaging details for the all-new 2016 Mazda CX-9, a midsize, three-row crossover SUV, marking its entry into the competitive SUV market. This vehicle is designed to offer a premium experience, engaging driving dynamics, and Mazda’s signature KODO—Soul of Motion design philosophy, positioning it as a compelling choice within its segment with a starting MSRP of $31,520.

Robert Davis, senior vice president of U.S. Operations at MNAO, emphasized the high expectations for the 2016 CX-9, stating, “With the 2016 CX-9, we have lofty expectations, raising the bar with a quieter, smoother ride; a quicker, more responsive powertrain; and numerous other improvements.” He further highlighted the CX-9 as Mazda’s flagship model, foreshadowing future innovations and premium features across their vehicle lineup.

The 2016 Mazda CX-9 comes in several trim levels, each offering a unique set of features to cater to different customer preferences and needs.

2016 Mazda CX-9 Sport

The base Sport trim of the 2016 Mazda CX-9 is generously equipped with standard features including LED headlights and taillights, reminiscent of the design found in the 2016 MX-5 Miata. It also includes fabric seating surfaces, an electronic parking brake, 18-inch alloy wheels, a rear backup camera for enhanced safety, trailer stability assist, and the MAZDA CONNECT infotainment system. This system features Commander control and a seven-inch color display, providing access to various vehicle functions and entertainment options. For those seeking additional comfort and convenience, the optional Sport Package adds a power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats for colder climates, and heated door mirrors, making the 2016 CX-9 Sport even more appealing.

2016 Mazda CX-9 Touring

Stepping up to the Touring trim of the 2016 Mazda CX-9 introduces a range of upgraded features. These include an auto-dimming rearview mirror, Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert for improved driver awareness and safety, HomeLink garage door openers for added convenience, and leather seating surfaces available in black or sand colors, enhancing the interior’s premium feel. The Touring model also features Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry System, a power liftgate for easier cargo access, power-adjustable front seats, and an upgraded eight-inch MAZDA CONNECT touchscreen display. Customers of the 2016 CX-9 Touring can further opt for the Touring Premium Package, which adds automatic on/off headlights, LED fog lights for enhanced visibility, a navigation system, a premium 12-speaker BOSE audio system for an immersive sound experience, rain-sensing wipers, rear backup sensors, second-row retractable sunshades for passenger comfort, SiriusXM satellite radio, automatic Smart City Brake Support, and a sunroof, bringing in natural light and fresh air.

2016 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring

The Grand Touring model of the 2016 Mazda CX-9 elevates the lineup with even more sophisticated features, building upon the Sport and Touring trims. It includes an Adaptive Front-lighting System for improved nighttime visibility, larger 20-inch wheels, aluminum interior trim for a more refined cabin, Mazda’s innovative Active Driving Display which projects crucial instrument and navigation information onto the windshield directly in the driver’s line of sight, high-beam control, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Smart Brake Support for enhanced safety and convenience on long drives, roof rails for added utility, and memory settings for the driver’s seat, catering to multiple drivers.

2016 Mazda CX-9 Signature

At the pinnacle of the 2016 Mazda CX-9 range is the Signature trim. This model comes standard with Mazda’s predictive i-ACTIV all-wheel drive system. This advanced AWD system utilizes 27 sensors, measuring conditions over 200 times per second to precisely distribute power to each wheel, effectively minimizing wheel slip and maximizing traction in various driving conditions. The interior of the 2016 CX-9 Signature is adorned with Auburn-colored Nappa leather, luxurious rosewood trim crafted by Japanese guitar-maker Fujigen, LED signature accent grille lighting, and LED accent lighting around the automatic shifter, creating an ambiance of sophisticated elegance.

Engine and Powertrain of the 2016 Mazda CX-9

Powering every 2016 Mazda CX-9 model is Mazda’s newly developed turbocharged SKYACTIV-G 2.5T engine. This engine is engineered to deliver a robust 310 lb-ft of torque from as low as 2,000 rpm, regardless of whether using 87- or 93-octane gasoline. It produces 250 horsepower on 93-octane gasoline and 227 horsepower on 87-octane. Impressively, the 2016 CX-9 achieves class-leading EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 22 mpg city/28 mpg highway/25 mpg combined in front-wheel-drive configuration, regardless of the gasoline grade used. This engine is paired with a standard SKYACTIV-DRIVE six-speed automatic transmission and is available with either front-wheel drive or the i-ACTIV all-wheel drive system.

Pricing and Availability

The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices for the 2016 Mazda CX-9 models are as follows (note: adding all-wheel drive is an additional $1,800):

Premium paint colors are also available at an additional cost: Snowflake White Pearl Mica ($200), Soul Red Metallic ($300), and Machine Gray Metallic ($300).

The 2016 Mazda CX-9 was expected to be available for sale in the U.S. in late spring 2016. Final specifications and packaging details were to be released closer to the on-sale date.

With its focus on “effortless transition,” as described by Robert Davis, the 2016 Mazda CX-9 is designed to seamlessly integrate into the multifaceted lifestyles of modern families and individuals, offering both practicality and driving pleasure. Whether prioritizing space, design, or elegance, the 2016 CX-9 stands out as an exceptional vehicle, poised to attract both new and returning Mazda customers.