The 2016 Mazda CX-9 marked a significant leap forward for the midsize, three-row crossover SUV segment. Mazda North American Operations unveiled this all-new model with a clear mission: to redefine the family SUV by injecting premium features, engaging driving dynamics, and striking design into a typically utilitarian category. The 2016 Mazda CX-9 aimed to be more than just practical; it was designed to be desirable.
Robert Davis, Senior Vice President of U.S. Operations at MNAO, emphasized this ambition, stating the CX-9 would “raise the bar” with improvements across the board – a quieter and smoother ride, a more responsive powertrain, and a host of innovative technologies. As Mazda’s flagship SUV, the 2016 Mazda CX-9 was intended to showcase the brand’s future direction, promising enhanced driving pleasure and sophisticated amenities.
The 2016 Mazda CX-9 was offered in a range of trims, each building upon a foundation of impressive standard features. Even the base Sport trim demonstrated Mazda’s commitment to value and quality.
2016 Mazda CX-9 Trim Levels: Sport, Touring, Grand Touring, and Signature
Mazda structured the 2016 Mazda CX-9 lineup to cater to diverse customer needs and preferences, offering four distinct trim levels: Sport, Touring, Grand Touring, and Signature.
CX-9 Sport: Standard Features and Available Package
The 2016 Mazda CX-9 Sport trim served as an excellent entry point, packed with standard features that are often optional in competing models. Exterior highlights included modern LED headlights and taillights, echoing the design language of the MX-5 Miata. Inside, drivers benefited from fabric seating surfaces, an electronic parking brake, a rear backup camera, and 18-inch wheels. For infotainment, the MAZDA CONNECT system with Commander control and a seven-inch color display was standard, along with trailer stability assist for enhanced towing confidence.
For those seeking added comfort, the Sport Package offered upgrades such as a power driver’s seat, heated front seats, and heated door mirrors, enhancing the driving experience in colder climates.
CX-9 Touring: Stepping Up in Comfort and Technology
Moving up to the 2016 Mazda CX-9 Touring trim brought significant enhancements in convenience and technology. Leather seating surfaces in black or sand colors replaced the fabric in the Sport, while the auto-dimming rearview mirror, Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and HomeLink garage door openers added practical safety and convenience features. The Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry System, a power liftgate, and power front seats further elevated the Touring trim’s appeal. The infotainment system was also upgraded to an eight-inch MAZDA CONNECT touchscreen display.
Customers could further enhance the Touring model with the Touring Premium Package. This package included automatic on/off headlights, LED fog lights for improved visibility, a navigation system, a premium 12-speaker BOSE® audio system for audiophiles, rain-sensing wipers, rear backup sensors, second-row retractable sunshades for passenger comfort, SiriusXM satellite radio, automatic Smart City Brake Support for low-speed collision mitigation, and a sunroof to bring in natural light.
CX-9 Grand Touring: Premium Features and Advanced Safety
The 2016 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring trim took luxury and technology to the next level. Building upon the features of the Sport and Touring trims, the Grand Touring added Adaptive Front-lighting System for enhanced nighttime visibility, larger 20-inch wheels, and aluminum interior trim for a more upscale cabin ambiance. Mazda’s innovative Active Driving Display, projecting key instrument and navigation information onto the windshield, debuted in this trim, minimizing driver distraction. Advanced safety features such as high-beam control, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Smart Brake Support became standard, along with roof rails for added cargo-carrying versatility and memory settings for the driver’s seat.
CX-9 Signature: The Pinnacle of Luxury and All-Wheel Drive
At the top of the 2016 Mazda CX-9 range was the Signature trim, representing the ultimate expression of Mazda’s vision for the vehicle. The Signature trim uniquely came standard with Mazda’s predictive i-ACTIV all-wheel drive system. This advanced AWD system utilizes 27 sensors to monitor conditions over 200 times per second, proactively distributing power to individual wheels to optimize traction and minimize wheel slip, providing confident handling in various driving conditions.
The interior of the 2016 Mazda CX-9 Signature was adorned with exclusive Auburn-colored Nappa leather and rosewood trim, supplied by Japanese guitar maker Fujigen, adding a touch of handcrafted elegance. LED signature accent grille lighting and LED accent lighting around the automatic shifter further distinguished the Signature model, both visually and in terms of premium features.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency of the 2016 Mazda CX-9
Under the hood of every 2016 Mazda CX-9 was Mazda’s newly developed turbocharged SKYACTIV-G 2.5T engine. This engine was engineered to deliver a robust 310 lb-ft of torque from a low 2,000 rpm, ensuring responsive acceleration and ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising. It produced 250 horsepower on 93-octane gasoline (or 227 horsepower on 87-octane). Notably, the 2016 Mazda CX-9 achieved class-leading EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined in front-wheel-drive configuration, regardless of whether 87- or 93-octane gasoline was used.
The SKYACTIV-G 2.5T engine was paired with a standard SKYACTIV-DRIVE six-speed automatic transmission. Buyers had the choice of front-wheel drive or Mazda’s i-ACTIV all-wheel drive system (standard on Signature, optional on other trims).
Pricing and Availability
The 2016 Mazda CX-9 started with a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $31,520 for the Sport trim. Pricing for other trims and packages were also announced, with all-wheel drive adding $1,800 to the MSRP. Premium paint colors like Snowflake White Pearl Mica, Soul Red Metallic, and Machine Gray Metallic were available for an additional cost. The 2016 Mazda CX-9 was expected to go on sale in the U.S. in late spring 2016.
The 2016 Mazda CX-9 successfully combined family-friendly practicality with Mazda’s signature driving dynamics and sophisticated design. It aimed to offer an “effortless transition” for busy individuals and families, providing a vehicle that was both versatile and enjoyable to drive, whether for daily commutes or weekend getaways. With its range of trims and features, the 2016 Mazda CX-9 presented a compelling option for those seeking a refined and engaging midsize SUV.
