If you’re eyeing the Mazda CX-9, you’re likely looking for a vehicle that checks all the boxes: impressive capabilities, spacious interior, smooth ride, and exceptional safety features. You’re in luck! There are several cars that fit the bill, and some may even offer more than the CX-9.
From the reliable Toyota Highlander to the luxurious Porsche Macan, the options are vast. So, which one is right for you? Let’s take a closer look at the contenders.
Quick Navigation
Key Takeaways
- The Toyota Highlander offers a 5,000-pound towing capacity, a base 295-horsepower V6 engine, and a hybrid option with 29 mpg highway.
- The GMC Acadia provides seating for up to seven passengers and notable upgrades in safety features compared to the Mazda CX-9.
- The Honda Pilot is a reliable and spacious SUV with a naturally aspirated V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and the most passenger and cargo space.
- The Nissan Pathfinder offers an impressive array of capabilities and features, including a 6,000-pound towing capacity and a competitively priced starting point of $35,810.
Toyota Highlander Competitor
When shopping for a Mazda CX-9 alternative, you might find yourself cross-shopping with the Toyota Highlander, a formidable competitor that boasts a 5,000-pound towing capacity, a base 295-horsepower V6, and excellent standard safety technology features.
With a starting price of $36,620, it’s a great option for families, offering a smooth and quiet ride that absorbs bumps with ease.
You’ll also appreciate the Highlander’s hybrid option and its 29 mpg highway rating edges out the CX-9’s 28 mpg.
GMC Acadia Alternative
When considering a GMC Acadia alternative, you’ll want to look at vehicles that offer identical seating capacities, such as the Mazda CX-9, which can seat up to seven passengers.
You’ll also want to compare safety features, like blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning systems, to guarantee you’re getting a comparably equipped vehicle.
Finally, you’ll need to compare prices, as the Acadia’s starting price of $36,800 might be more or less than what you’re willing to spend.
Seating Capacity
The GMC Acadia’s seating capacity stands out as a notable advantage, particularly for those who need to accommodate larger families or frequent carpooling.
You can configure the second row as a three-passenger bench or two captain’s chairs, providing flexibility for passengers and cargo.
The third row, suitable for smaller children or occasional use, is a key differentiator from the Mazda CX-9, which only seats up to six passengers.
You’ll appreciate the 12.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 41.7 cubic feet behind the second row, and 79.6 cubic feet with both rows folded.
Safety Features
You’ll find the GMC Acadia’s safety features to be a notable upgrade from the Mazda CX-9. The Acadia offers a suite of advanced technologies, including a Forward Collision Alert, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, and a Safety Alert Seat.
| Safety Feature | Description** | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Forward Collision Alert | Warns of potential collisions | SLE, SLT, Denali |
| Lane Change Alert | Alerts of blind spot vehicles | SLE, SLT, Denali |
| Safety Alert Seat | Vibrates to alert the driver | SLE, SLT, Denali |
These features are backed by a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.
Price Comparison
Pricing plays a significant role in your car-buying decision, and the GMC Acadia alternative you choose will have a distinct price tag.
You’ll find that the Kia Telluride has the lowest price point, starting at $35,990. The Mazda CX-9 and Hyundai Palisade are comparably priced, starting at $36,400. The Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer have higher price points, starting at $36,620 and $36,760, respectively.
The GMC Acadia has the highest starting price of $36,800. Consider your budget and prioritize your needs to investigate the best fit for you.
Honda Pilot Comparison
If you’re in the market for a reliable and spacious SUV, Honda’s Pilot is definitely worth considering.
This rugged, boxy vehicle offers a naturally aspirated V6, producing 285 horsepower. You’ll appreciate the quiet ride and bump-absorbing capabilities, making it an excellent choice for road trips.
- It boasts the most passenger and cargo space, ranking high in comfort for second and third-row passengers.
- The Pilot’s cargo carrying ease and flexibility are hard to beat, although the price might hold it back from taking the top spot.
With its smooth ride and impressive capabilities, the Honda Pilot is certainly a strong contender in the SUV market.
Nissan Pathfinder Rival
The Nissan Pathfinder emerges as a formidable rival to the Mazda CX-9, boasting an impressive array of capabilities and features that make it a strong contender in the three-row midsize SUV market.
You’ll appreciate its 6,000-pound towing capacity, seven driving modes, and 284 horsepower. Priced competitively at $35,810, it’s a viable alternative to the CX-9.
The Pathfinder also offers more cargo space and a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, making it an attractive option for families.
While it has slightly lower fuel economy estimates, the Pathfinder is a strong rival to weigh.
Hyundai Palisade Similarity
You’ll find the Hyundai Palisade to be a compelling alternative to the Mazda CX-9, thanks to its similar starting price of $36,400 and seating for up to eight passengers.
The Palisade offers a more powerful engine, producing 291 horsepower, and a higher maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.
- Similar engine performance with a 3.8-liter V6 engine
- Comparable fuel economy with an estimated EPA rating of 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway
- Matching seating capacity with three rows of seats
Telluride Competitor
As you investigate alternatives to the Mazda CX-9, the Kia Telluride emerges as a formidable rival, boasting a competitive starting price of $35,990.
The Telluride offers a spacious interior with seating for up to eight passengers and 31 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row.
Powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine, it produces 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, with an available all-wheel-drive system.
You’ll appreciate the premium interior, upscale materials, and attention to detail, making the Kia Telluride a strong competitor to the Mazda CX-9.
Ford Explorer Alternative
If you’re in the market for a Mazda CX-9 alternative, consider the Ford Investigator, which offers a compelling blend of practicality and performance.
With a starting price, you’ll get excellent standard safety features, a practical and functional infotainment screen, seating for seven people, and multiple power options.
- The Investigator has a towing capacity, making it suitable for towing small to medium-sized trailers and boats
- The SYNC 3 infotainment system features an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a 12-speaker B&O Sound System
- The Investigator offers a maximum cargo capacity of 81.7 cubic feet, perfect for hauling large items such as furniture, luggage, and camping gear
Luxury and Other Competitors
You’ll also want to ponder luxury competitors like the Porsche Macan, which offers a range of engine options and starts at around $50,000.
With 2,511 units available, the Macan is a viable alternative to the Mazda CX-9, and its luxury features may appeal to those looking for a high-end driving experience.
Alongside the Macan, you’ll weigh other luxury competitors like the BMW X5, Lincoln Navigator, and Acura MDX, each offering their own unique blend of performance and luxury.
Luxury Competitors
When shopping for a high-end SUV, several luxury competitors stand out as alternatives to the Mazda CX-9.
You’ll want to ponder these luxury options:
- The GMC Acadia offers seating for up to seven passengers and an 8-Inch infotainment system, starting at $36,800.
- The Acura MDX offers a 5,000-pound towing capacity and a starting price of $44,400.
- The BMW X5 offers a 5,000-pound towing capacity and a starting price of $59,400.
Porsche Macan
The Porsche Macan, a luxury compact SUV, enters the competitive landscape with 2,511 units available in the market.
As you weigh your options, you’ll notice the Macan starts at around $35,990, making it a pricier choice compared to the Mazda CX-9.
However, the Macan’s powerful engine and luxurious interior with premium materials might justify the extra cost.
With 375 horsepower at your disposal, you’ll experience a performance-oriented ride that’s hard to match.
If you value comfort, the Macan’s interior will impress you.
Mazda CX-90 Overview
Mazda’s latest addition to its SUV lineup, the CX-90, boasts impressive credentials.
You’ll notice its new rear-biased platform, featuring a new inline-six cylinder, and debuting mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains.
- The CX-90 has a test-best 340 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, though it’s also the only one to drink from the premium tap.
- A lower-power version of this engine produces 280 hp and 332 lb-ft on regular fuel, priced at $7,000 less.
- In the US, the CX-90 is priced at just shy of $62 thousand.
Mazda CX-9 Design and Amenities
As you delve into the CX-9’s design and amenities, you’ll notice a luxurious interior with features like tri-zone automatic climate control and heated front seats.
The exterior boasts a sharp, sophisticated design, setting it apart from its rivals.
You’ll also appreciate the comfortable seating options, carefully crafted to minimize distractions and maximize your driving experience.
Luxurious Interior Features
With its eyes on the luxury segment, the CX-9’s cabin is handsomely crafted to minimize distractions, providing a sense of refinement that envelops you the moment you step inside.
You’ll appreciate the attention to detail in features like:
- Tri-zone automatic climate control, ensuring everyone stays comfortable
- Heated front seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, adding a touch of luxury
- A power-adjustable driver’s seat, providing ideal support and visibility
Sharp Exterior Design
You’ll be drawn to the CX-9’s sharp exterior design, which sets it apart from other three-row SUVs, boasting a level of sophistication typically found in luxury cars.
Standard exterior features include LED headlights and heated side mirrors, providing top visibility and convenience.
The CX-9’s exterior paint color options are typically reserved for higher-level trims in competing vehicles, giving it an upscale look that’s hard to ignore.
With its clean and handsomely crafted design, you’ll feel like you’re driving a luxury vehicle, without the hefty price tag.
Comfortable Seating Options
The 2020 Mazda CX-9 prioritizes comfort, and its seating options are no exception.
You’ll appreciate the attention to detail in the cabin, where you’ll find:
- Heated front seats that warm you up on chilly days
- A power-adjustable driver’s seat that lets you find your perfect position
- A leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter knob that adds a touch of luxury
These comfort features, combined with its clean and handsomely crafted cabin, make the CX-9 an ideal choice for those who value comfort and sophistication.
Mazda CX-9 Fuel Economy and Capabilities
Mazda’s CX-9 delivers impressive fuel economy ratings, making it a great option for those who want to save on gas costs.
You’ll get an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway with front-wheel drive, beating out many competitors.
The CX-9’s fuel economy ratings are competitive in its class, making it a good option for those who prioritize fuel efficiency.
Additionally, you’ll have plenty of power with 310 lb.-ft. of torque output, rising to 320 lb.-ft. with premium fuel.
Plus, you can tow up to 3,500 pounds with the base trim.
Mazda CX-9 Inventory and Search
Searching for the perfect Mazda CX-9 can be a breeze with our inventory search service.
You can search for Mazda CX-9 inventory and reserve a vehicle that suits your preferences.
Note that there are currently no new Mazda CX-9 vehicles in Springfield, MA, but new vehicles are arriving often and can be reserved.
- By using our inventory search service, you accept the terms of the Visitor Agreement, Terms of Use, and Privacy Policy.
- Let’s know what you’re looking for, and we’ll get back to you with a response.
New vehicles are arriving often, and you can reserve one that meets your needs.
Mazda CX-9 Comparison
When shopping for a three-row SUV, you’ll likely find yourself cross-comparing several models, including the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, Ford Expedition, and Chevrolet Traverse. The Mazda CX-9 stands out with its luxurious look and sophistication, offering things its rivals can’t.
| Vehicle | Torque Output | Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Mazda CX-9 | 310 lb.-ft. (320 lb.-ft. with premium fuel) | Up to 3,500 pounds |
| Honda Pilot | 262 lb.-ft. | Up to 3,500 pounds |
| Hyundai Palisade | 262 lb.-ft. | Up to 5,000 pounds |
The CX-9 provides roominess and amenities, with a luxurious look and undeniable air of sophistication that its rivals can’t match.
Conclusion
You’ve navigated the maze of SUV options, and the finish line is in sight. As you weigh the pros and cons, the Mazda CX-9‘s design, amenities, fuel economy, and capabilities are likely etched in your mind like a Renaissance-era engraving. Now, take the reins, and narrow down your search to find the perfect fit. With this guide, you’ll be driving off into the sunset in no time.
