As a car enthusiast who’s clocked countless hours behind the wheel, I’ve always admired Mazda’s ability to blend style, performance, and value. When I needed to pick between the Mazda CX-5 and CX-9 for my family’s next vehicle, I was torn. Both SUVs offer sporty handling, upscale interiors, and practical features, but they cater to different lifestyles.
In this article, I’ll share my firsthand experience comparing these two, breaking down their pros and cons, and helping you decide which suits you best—whether you’re navigating city streets or hauling a big crew on road trips.
Comparison Table: Mazda CX-5 vs. Mazda CX-9
| Feature | Mazda CX-5 | Mazda CX-9 |
|---|---|---|
| Class | Compact SUV | Midsize SUV |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 6 or 7 (depending on configuration) |
| Base Engine | 2.5L 4-cylinder (187 hp) | 2.5L Turbo 4-cylinder (250 hp) |
| Fuel Economy (mpg) | 23 city / 29 highway | 20 city / 26 highway |
| Cargo Space | 30.8 cu. ft. (seats up) / 59.3 cu. ft. (seats down) | 14.4 cu. ft. (seats up) / 71.2 cu. ft. (seats down) |
| Starting MSRP | $30,265 | $40,125 |
| Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs | 3,500 lbs |
| Infotainment Screen | 10.25-inch | 10.25-inch |
| Standard Safety | Adaptive cruise, lane-keep assist | Adaptive cruise, lane-keep assist |
My Experience With the Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 is like that friend who’s always ready for an adventure but doesn’t demand much fuss.
As a compact SUV, it’s designed for people like me who want a vehicle that’s fun to drive yet practical for everyday life.
My first test drive was a revelation.
I took it through my city’s bustling downtown, weaving through traffic and dodging jaywalkers.
The CX-5’s steering was razor-sharp, almost like a hot hatch, and its suspension soaked up potholes without making me feel disconnected from the road.
I tackled a few winding backroads, too, and the CX-5 hugged curves with a confidence that made me grin.
At 179 inches long, it’s compact enough to slip into tight parking spots, which I appreciated when squeezing into a crowded lot near my favorite coffee shop.
The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, pumping out 187 horsepower, felt peppy enough for my daily commute. I also got to try the optional 256-hp turbo engine on a higher trim, which added a thrilling kick, though I noticed it drank fuel faster. On a weekend trip, I loaded the CX-5 with camping gear—tents, coolers, and backpacks—and its 30.8 cubic feet of cargo space (seats up) handled it all effortlessly.
Folding the rear seats opened up 59.3 cubic feet, enough for a spontaneous furniture run. The interior is where the CX-5 really shines. The leather-trimmed seats (on Touring trims and above) were supportive, and the cabin’s soft-touch materials and sleek design made me feel like I was in a pricier vehicle. The 10.25-inch infotainment screen looked sharp, but the rotary knob controller took some getting used to—I fumbled when switching playlists on the move.
Safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking were standard, which gave me confidence on busy highways. However, the lane-keep system sometimes nudged me back a bit too aggressively, especially on curvy roads.
Fuel economy was a highlight, with 23 mpg in the city and 29 on the highway. During a week of mixed driving, I spent less at the pump than I would have with a larger SUV. Still, I wondered if the CX-5’s compact size would cut it for bigger family outings, which prompted me to try the CX-9.
The CX-5’s vibe is perfect for singles, couples, or small families who want a stylish, efficient SUV that doesn’t skimp on driving fun. It’s not without flaws, but it’s hard to beat for its price and polish.
My Experience With the Mazda CX-9
The Mazda CX-9 feels like the CX-5’s bigger, more sophisticated sibling, built for those who need space and power without losing Mazda’s signature flair.
I tested it with my family—my spouse, two kids, and a pile of sports gear for a weekend tournament.
The CX-9’s three-row seating, configurable for six or seven passengers, was a lifesaver.
The second row, whether with a bench or captain’s chairs, offered plenty of legroom, and my kids sprawled out comfortably.
The third row, however, was snug—fine for my 10-year-old but tight for adults on longer trips.
At 199 inches long, the CX-9 is noticeably bigger than the CX-5, which made parallel parking in the city a bit of a challenge, but its smooth handling kept it from feeling like a boat.
The CX-9’s 2.5-liter turbo engine, delivering 250 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, was a standout. Merging onto highways felt effortless, and I towed a small trailer for a camping trip without breaking a sweat, thanks to its 3,500-pound towing capacity. The interior is where the CX-9 flexes its muscles.
On the Signature trim, Nappa leather and real wood accents gave it a near-luxury feel, and I caught myself running my hands over the materials, impressed by the quality for a $40,000-ish SUV. The 10.25-inch infotainment system was identical to the CX-5’s, but the CX-9’s tri-zone climate control was a hit with my family—everyone could tweak their own vents.
Cargo space was a mixed bag. With the third row up, the 14.4 cubic feet behind it barely fit a few grocery bags, so I often folded the third row for more room (up to 71.2 cubic feet with both rows down).
The ride was smooth, soaking up bumps on rural roads, but it lacked the CX-5’s nimble handling in tight corners. Fuel economy—20 mpg city, 26 highway—was a noticeable step down, and I felt it during a week of driving. For families or those who tow, the CX-9’s versatility and power are hard to beat, but its size and thirst for fuel gave me pause.
Pros of the Mazda CX-5
- Nimble Handling: The CX-5’s precise steering and tight suspension make it a blast to drive. I felt like I was in a sports car zipping through city streets or carving up backroads.
- Fuel Efficiency: Getting 23 mpg city and 29 highway saved me money at the pump. During a 200-mile road trip, I spent less than expected compared to midsize SUVs.
- Affordable Price: Starting at $30,265, the CX-5 offers premium features at a budget-friendly price. I was amazed by the tech and comfort in even the base trims.
- Upscale Interior: The cabin’s soft-touch materials, available Nappa leather, and clean design rival luxury brands. I felt pampered on long drives, and the seats stayed comfy for hours.
- Cargo Space for Class: With 30.8 cubic feet behind the second row, it’s roomy for a compact SUV. I packed in camping gear and groceries without needing to fold seats.
- Standard Safety Features: Adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring come standard. These helped me navigate rush-hour traffic with ease, though the lane system could be intrusive.
- Compact Size: At 179 inches, it’s a breeze to park in tight urban spots. I slipped into my narrow garage and crowded lots without breaking a sweat.
- Quiet Cabin at Low Speeds: In city driving, the cabin stays hushed, letting me enjoy my music. I appreciated the calm vibe during morning commutes.
The CX-5’s magic lies in its balance. It’s a compact SUV that drives like a dream, with handling that kept me engaged and an interior that punched above its weight. The fuel economy was a practical win, especially with gas prices climbing, and the cargo space handled my active lifestyle. Whether I was running errands or hitting the open road, the CX-5 felt like an extension of my personality—fun, efficient, and stylish. For anyone who values driving dynamics and doesn’t need extra seats, it’s a top contender.
Cons of the Mazda CX-5
- Limited Rear Legroom: The second row’s 39.6 inches of legroom felt cramped for taller passengers. My 6-foot friend grumbled about knee space on a group trip.
- Base Engine Power: The 187-hp engine is fine for solo drives but struggles when loaded with passengers and cargo. I felt it lag on steep hills with a full car.
- Smaller Towing Capacity: With a 2,000-pound limit, it’s not built for heavy towing. I couldn’t use it to haul a trailer for a camping trip, which was a bummer.
- Infotainment Learning Curve: The rotary knob for the 10.25-inch screen isn’t as intuitive as a touchscreen. I fumbled with it while trying to adjust navigation on the go.
- No Hybrid Option: Competitors offer hybrid powertrains, but the CX-5 doesn’t. I wished for better efficiency to offset rising fuel costs.
- Third-Row Absence: With only two rows, it’s not ideal for larger families. I ran out of seats when carpooling for a family event.
- Road Noise at High Speeds: On highways, road noise crept in, especially on rough pavement. It wasn’t deafening but distracted me from my podcasts.
- Limited Color Options: The CX-5’s color palette is stylish but limited compared to rivals. I wanted more vibrant choices to match my personality.
The CX-5’s compact size is both a strength and a weakness. It’s great for zipping around town, but the tight rear legroom and lack of a third row limited its appeal for bigger groups. The base engine felt underpowered at times, and the absence of a hybrid option was a letdown in today’s eco-conscious market. The infotainment system, while sleek, took practice to master, and highway noise occasionally broke the cabin’s calm. These quirks didn’t ruin the experience, but they’re worth noting if you need more space or power.
Read More: My Thoughts On BMW X7 Vs. Cadillac Escalade
Pros of the Mazda CX-9
- Spacious Three-Row Seating: With room for up to seven, it’s a family hauler’s dream. I fit my kids, their friends, and gear for a weekend tournament comfortably.
- Powerful Turbo Engine: The 250-hp turbo engine and 310 lb-ft of torque deliver strong acceleration. I merged onto highways with confidence and towed a trailer effortlessly.
- Luxury-Level Interior: Nappa leather and wood trim (on Signature trims) give it a premium feel. I was stunned by the upscale vibe for a non-luxury brand.
- Higher Towing Capacity: Rated at 3,500 pounds, it’s built for towing. I hauled a small camper for a family trip without any strain.
- Tri-Zone Climate Control: Everyone stayed comfortable with separate climate zones. My kids loved controlling their own vents on long drives.
- Versatile Cargo Space: Folding the second and third rows opens up 71.2 cubic feet. I moved a bookshelf and sports gear without breaking a sweat.
- Smooth Ride Quality: The CX-9 glides over bumps, making it great for long trips. I stayed relaxed on a 300-mile drive through rural roads.
- Premium Audio Option: The available Bose 12-speaker system was a treat. I enjoyed crisp sound quality during road trips, elevating the experience.
The CX-9 is a family-friendly powerhouse. Its turbo engine gave me the grunt I needed for towing and highway driving, and the interior felt like a step into luxury territory. The three-row seating and versatile cargo space were perfect for my growing family’s needs, and the smooth ride made long journeys a pleasure. The premium audio and climate control added a touch of indulgence, making the CX-9 feel like more than just a practical SUV. It’s a vehicle that adapts to your life, whether you’re hauling kids or gear.
Cons of the Mazda CX-9
- Lower Fuel Economy: At 20 mpg city and 26 highway, it’s less efficient than the CX-5. I noticed the higher fuel costs during a week of driving.
- Tight Third Row: The third row is best for kids, not adults. My 5’10” brother-in-law was uncomfortable back there on a short trip.
- Less Agile Handling: It’s not as nimble as the CX-5, feeling heavier in corners. I missed the sporty feel on twisty backroads.
- Higher Price Tag: Starting at $40,125, it’s a bigger investment. I had to consider if the extra space was worth the price jump.
- Limited Cargo with Third Row Up: Only 14.4 cubic feet behind the third row meant folding seats for bigger loads, which wasn’t always convenient.
- Larger Size in City: At 199 inches, it’s tougher to park in urban areas. I struggled in tight downtown spots and scraped a curb once.
- No Hybrid Option: A hybrid would’ve helped with fuel costs, but it’s not available. I hoped for a greener choice given the CX-9’s size.
- Infotainment Complexity: Like the CX-5, the rotary knob system isn’t intuitive. I found it distracting when adjusting settings on the move.
The CX-9’s size and power come with compromises. Its thirstier engine and higher price were noticeable drawbacks, especially for my budget. The cramped third row and limited cargo space with seats up were inconvenient for spontaneous trips. While it’s a smooth cruiser, it lacks the CX-5’s agility, and parking in the city tested my skills. The lack of a hybrid option and the finicky infotainment system were minor frustrations, but they didn’t overshadow the CX-9’s family-friendly strengths.
Read More: My Thoughts On Ford Escape Vs. Mazda CX-5
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The CX-5 is a compact SUV with seating for five, better fuel economy (23/29 mpg), and a lower starting price ($30,265). The CX-9 is a midsize SUV with up to seven seats, a 250-hp turbo engine, and 3,500-pound towing capacity, but it’s pricier ($40,125) and less efficient (20/26 mpg).
Mazda has phased out the CX-9 in some markets, replacing it with the CX-90. It may still be available in certain regions or as used inventory—check with local dealers.
The CX-5’s sporty handling, premium interior, and affordability drive its popularity. Its fuel efficiency, compact size, and safety features like adaptive cruise control appeal to singles, couples, and small families.
The CX-9 scores 8.6/10 for reliability per iSeeCars. Some older models had minor issues like coolant leaks, but regular maintenance keeps it dependable for families.
Conclusion: For Mazda CX-5 or CX-9
You’re at a crossroads, and I’ve been there. If you’re like me, loving a nimble, fuel-efficient SUV for city commutes or small adventures, the CX-5 is your pick. Its sporty handling, upscale cabin, and lower price make it a gem for urban drivers or small families. But if you’re hauling a bigger crew or towing gear, the CX-9’s three-row seating, powerful engine, and luxurious interior justify the investment. Test-drive both to feel their unique vibes—you’ll find the one that fits your road ahead.
