Mazda's biggest vehicle is all-new for 2016, its engineering centrepiece being the first turbocharged SkyActiv engine in the brand's North American lineup.
That new motor is a 2.5L unit that makes 250 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque on 93-octane fuel, but that output drops to 227 hp on regular gasoline. It comes paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a choice of front- or all-wheel drive.
Mazda claims the new CX-9 is among the most efficient vehicles in its class, with Natural Resources Canada ratings of 10.5/8.3 L/100 km (city/highway) with front-drive, and 11.2/8.8 with AWD.
Trim levels include GS, GS-L, GT, and Signature.
Standard equipment includes front-wheel drive, 18-inch wheels, auto-levelling LED headlights, LED taillights, electric parking brake, push-button start, eight-way power driver's seat with lumbar, Bluetooth, Mazda Connect with seven-inch display and HMI commander, backup camera, heated front seats, three-zone automatic climate control, and a rear climate control display. The only option available on the GS is all-wheel drive.
GS-L trim builds on the GS AWD and adds niceties like a heated steering wheel, intelligent keyless entry, rain-sensing wipers, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, and smart city brake support.
GT models add 20-inch wheels, 12-speaker sound-system, navigation, active driving display, and aluminum interior trim. A technology package adds radar cruise control, smart brake support, forward obstruction warning, automatic high beams, lane departure warning, and lane keep assist.
The new top-end Signature model builds on the GT with Tech package and adds Nappa leather upholstery, rosewood interior trim, signature grille illumination, and LED interior lighting.
MSRPs start at $35,300 for a GS FWD model, and top out at $50,100 for the Signature.
