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Mazda Hopes to Gain an Edge With CX-9. Does it Hit the Mark?


Oooh, bad puns. Sorry, but I just couldn't help myself. Here are some official shots of the CX-9, sister ship to the Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX

Mazda today revealed the all-new Mazda CX-9 seven-seat crossover sport-utility vehicle, which has been developed specifically for the US market. Following its debut at the New York International Auto Show, the Mazda CX-9 will go on sale in the US in early 2007. There are no plans to introduce the vehicle in other parts of the world.

The Mazda CX-9 provides unique Mazda design and energetic performance as well as an up-market interior with class-leading space and unmatched versatility. Like the Mazda CX-7, which was revealed earlier this year and which will be introduced to the UK next year, the CX-9 is a break from traditional ‘boxy’ SUVs. Engineered with Mazda’s "soul of a sportscar" theme, the CX-9 blends sporty driving spirit with seven-seat SUV practicality.

The Mazda CX-9 rides on one of the longest wheelbases in the segment, providing easy access to its three-row seating. There is ample room for adults in every seat, plus sufficient cargo space for their luggage.

The driver’s seat and steering column move easily over a long range of adjustment, while the 60/40 split second row not only carries three in comfort, but also offers approximately five-inches of fore-and-aft slide travel and a reclining backrest. The 50/50 split third row has class-leading legroom, while entry is easy, with nearly 26 inches of access space between the folded second-row seat and the C-pillar. Even with the third row occupied, the CX-9 provides 17.2 cubic feet of cargo capacity. Both second and third row seats fold flat to allow additional storage all the way to the back of the front seats.

The CX-9 is powered by a new 3.5-litre V-6 with a preliminary rating of 250 horsepower. Advanced features include dual-overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, variable valve timing, a high compression ratio and electronic throttle control. It has a six-speed automatic transmission.

Drive is either through the front wheels or via Mazda’s advanced Active Torque-Split All-Wheel Drive system. On all-wheel drive models, various sensors signal control modules to automatically apportion torque to those wheels most able to provide solid traction. A computer-controlled coupling, connected with the rear differential, automatically adjusts the torque distribution, allowing up to 50 percent of the drive power to be sent to the rear wheels, depending on traction conditions.

Four-wheel disc ventilated brakes include an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS). When excessive wheel slippage is detected, a Traction Control System (TCS) automatically reduces driveline torque to help restore traction. Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) reduces driveline torque and automatically applies one or more brakes to minimize under- or over-steer during emergency maneuvers.