Mazda officially announced the pricing and packaging details for the highly anticipated 2016 Mazda CX-9, a completely redesigned midsize, three-row crossover SUV. This vehicle marks a significant step forward for Mazda, aiming to deliver a premium driving experience, engaging handling, and the striking KODO—Soul of Motion design language to the competitive SUV market. With a starting MSRP of $31,520, the 2016 Mazda CX-9 is positioned as a compelling option for families and individuals seeking a sophisticated and enjoyable SUV.
Robert Davis, Senior Vice President of U.S. Operations at Mazda North American Operations (MNAO), emphasized the ambitious goals for the 2016 CX-9: “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. CX-9 is our flagship and portends a future of innovative technologies and amenities that we believe will further elevate our vehicles in their respective classes.” This statement highlights Mazda’s commitment to pushing boundaries and delivering exceptional vehicles.
The 2016 Mazda CX-9 lineup starts with the Sport trim, which is generously equipped with standard features including LED headlights and taillights, mirroring the sleek design cues of the 2016 MX-5 Miata. Inside, the Sport offers fabric seating surfaces, an electronic parking brake, and 18-inch wheels. Essential technology and safety features are also standard, such as a rear backup camera, trailer stability assist, and the MAZDA CONNECT™ infotainment system, controlled via a Commander interface and displayed on a seven-inch color screen. For those seeking added comfort in the base trim, the optional Sport Package provides upgrades like a power driver’s seat, heated front seats, and heated door mirrors.
Stepping up to the CX-9 Touring trim brings a host of premium enhancements. Convenience features are upgraded with an auto-dimming rearview mirror, HomeLink garage door openers, Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry System, and a power liftgate. Safety is further enhanced with Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. The interior of the 2016 Mazda CX-9 Touring offers leather seating surfaces in black or sand colors and power-adjustable front seats. The infotainment system receives an upgrade to an eight-inch MAZDA CONNECT™ touchscreen display. For an even more luxurious experience, the Touring Premium Package is available, adding automatic on/off headlights, LED fog lights, navigation, a premium 12-speaker BOSE® audio system for exceptional sound quality, rain-sensing wipers, rear backup sensors, second-row retractable sunshades for passenger comfort, SiriusXM satellite radio, automatic Smart City Brake Support for enhanced safety in urban environments, and a sunroof to brighten the cabin.
The Grand Touring model of the 2016 Mazda CX-9 elevates the vehicle to a new level of sophistication and technology. Building upon the features of the Sport and Touring trims, the Grand Touring adds Adaptive Front-lighting System for improved nighttime visibility, striking 20-inch wheels, and aluminum interior trim for a refined aesthetic. Mazda introduces its first Active Driving Display in this trim, projecting crucial instrument and navigation information directly onto the windshield, allowing drivers to stay informed without taking their eyes off the road. Advanced safety and driver-assistance technologies in the Grand Touring include high-beam control, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Smart Brake Support. Practical additions include roof rails for increased cargo-carrying versatility and memory settings for the driver’s seat, catering to multiple drivers.
At the pinnacle of the 2016 Mazda CX-9 range is the Signature model. This top-tier trim comes standard with Mazda’s advanced predictive i-ACTIV all-wheel drive system. This sophisticated AWD system utilizes 27 sensors, analyzing conditions over 200 times per second to proactively distribute power to each wheel, ensuring optimal traction and control, virtually eliminating wheel slip. The interior of the CX-9 Signature is adorned with Auburn-colored Nappa leather and genuine rosewood trim, sourced from Japanese guitar maker Fujigen, adding an exclusive touch of craftsmanship. Exterior enhancements include LED signature accent grille lighting and LED accent lighting around the automatic shifter, further distinguishing the Signature model.
Powering every 2016 Mazda CX-9 model is Mazda’s newly developed turbocharged SKYACTIV-G 2.5T engine. This engine is engineered for responsive performance and fuel efficiency, delivering a robust 310 lb-ft of torque from a low 2,000 rpm, irrespective 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 Mazda 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. The 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.
Davis further elaborated on the design philosophy behind the 2016 Mazda CX-9: “Part of our focus during development the new CX-9 was on ‘effortless transition’—the idea of juggling being a parent with an on-the-go lifestyle and then having a vehicle that can accommodate enjoying a weekend getaway with your significant other. Whether you need the space or just prefer its design and elegance, we believe CX-9 is an exceptional vehicle that will delight many new and returning customers to the Mazda brand.”
The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) for each 2016 Mazda CX-9 model and option package are detailed below. Adding all-wheel drive to Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring models incurs an additional cost of $1,800. The Signature trim comes standard with AWD.
| 2016 Mazda CX-9 Model | MSRP |
|---|---|
| CX-9 Sport | $31,520 |
| • Sport Package | $950 |
| CX-9 Touring | $35,970 |
| • Touring Premium Package | $1,745 |
| CX-9 Grand Touring | $40,170 |
| CX-9 Signature (AWD Standard) | $44,015 |
Premium paint color options are also available: Snowflake White Pearl Mica ($200), Soul Red Metallic ($300), and Machine Gray Metallic ($300).
The 2016 Mazda CX-9 was anticipated to be available for sale in the U.S. in late spring 2016. Final specifications and packaging details were expected to be released closer to the on-sale date. With its blend of sophisticated design, premium features, engaging driving dynamics, and efficient performance, the 2016 Mazda CX-9 is poised to be a leader in the midsize SUV segment, attracting discerning buyers seeking a vehicle that meets the demands of both daily life and weekend adventures.
