The Mazda CX-9 is leagues behind full-size models like the 2022 Ford Expedition in terms of size alone. But it’s the biggest SUV in Mazda’s lineup, and it offers third-row seating with a plush interior that rivals more expensive makes.

Its comfortable first and second row—and acceptable third row—make it a rival not only in its own class but also against bigger builds from Ford and Chevrolet.

If you need an SUV with third-row seating but don’t want a behemoth gas-guzzler, a midsize model like the CX-9 is probably right up your alley. It’s a standout in its class for a few reasons, including its sporty-yet-efficient powertrain that makes it more of a fuel sipper than many rivals.

If you’re ready to take a look at the CX-9, start with this guide from

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Meet the biggest Mazda SUV: the CX-9

Big is a relative description. If you compare the CX-9 to something from the full-size SUV class, like the

Jeep

Wagoneer, for instance, you’ll find it’s a full 15 inches shorter and has 44 fewer cubic feet of passenger volume.

On the other hand, if you stack it up to the compact crossover Mazda CX-50, the CX-9 suddenly looks a lot bigger—with 14 more inches of length and 35 more cubic feet of passenger volume, to be exact.

But hey, size isn’t everything. The CX-9 brings a lot more to the table than its respectably midsize SUV class status. First, in an unusual move for its class, the CX-9 has rejected the V6 engine in favor of a turbocharged four-cylinder that gets the 4,400-pound crossover from 0-60 in about 7.1 seconds. And it does it with fairly good fuel efficiency.

The CX-9 comes with standard all-wheel drive and a 3,500-pound top towing capacity. The little four-cylinder manages 227 horsepower and a super satisfying low-end torque of 310 ft-lbs at 2,000 rpm. And it does it all while getting an EPA-estimated 23 combined mpg.

Inside, you’ll find a well-made interior with high-quality materials, but the third-row seat and cargo space are admittedly a little cramped. Every CX-9 includes a 10.3-inch touchscreen display with Bluetooth connectivity, streaming phone audio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and HD radio.

Safety isn’t skimped, either. Even the base-level CX-9 Sport trim comes with standard adaptive cruise control, automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. And its starting MSRP is just $36,855.

If you’re intrigued, keep reading. We’ll cover all the dimensions and specs you need to know about the 2022 CX-9.

MORE:

Mazda CX-9 towing capacity

Dimensions

If you want the specifics on the CX-9s dimensions inside and out, we’ve got them below:

Exterior dimensions
Wheelbase	115.3 inches
Length	199.4 inches
Width (without mirrors)	77.5 inches
Height	67.6 inches
Front track width	65.3 inches
Rear track width	65.2 inches
Ground clearance	8.8 inches

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Engine and performance

The 2022 CX-9 has just one engine configuration across all its trims. It’s Mazda’s turbocharged 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G four-cylinder, and it makes up to 227 horsepower and 310 ft-lbs of torque. You’ll get up to 23 mpg combined, with 20 in the city and 26 on the highway.

Cargo and towing

Midsize SUVs are made these days with families in mind. They’re designed to hold all your people, as well as all your stuff. The CX-9’s cargo space isn’t the best in its class by a long shot, but the fold-flat second- and third-row seats can help as long as you’re not seating to capacity. Here’s some info on the cargo volume:

Cargo volume behind first row: 71.2 cubic feet

Cargo volume behind second row: 38.2 cubic feet

Cargo volume behind third row: 14.4 cubic feet

With just 14.4 cubic feet behind the third-row seats for your gym bags, you’d better hope the kids are more into cross-country or swimming than hockey or baseball. If you need more room behind the back seats, look at the

Chevy Traverse

Buick Enclave

. These both have more than 20 cubic feet behind the third row of seats.

If you plan to hook up a trailer to your CX-9, you’ll want to keep it fairly light. It’s rated with a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. That’s enough power to pull a small pop-up camper or a pair of jet skis. But if you need to haul something substantial, consider the

Dodge Durango

. It has the highest towing capacity of the entire mid-size SUV class, at 8,700 pounds.

MORE:

Dodge Durango towing capacity

Mazda CX-9 vs. the competition

In many ways, the Mazda CX-9 can hold its own. Its suspension and chassis combined with the turbocharged four-cylinder mean it handles more acutely than other models, which can feel top-heavy and spongy. It’s also equipped with standard interior features that have traditionally been reserved for luxury brands, like tri-zone automatic climate control and heated front seats.

But there are some weak points. The third-row seat feels a little pinched for adults, the cargo space is lacking, and it’s not the most powerful performer in its class. If you want to see how the CX-9 compares overall to some of its biggest competitors, check out the table below:

Model	Starting price	Engine	Wheelbase	Length	Base curb weight	Seating capacity	Cargo volume w/seats down	Cargo volume w/seats up
2022 Mazda CX-9	$36,855	227-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder	115.3 inches	199.4 inches	4409 pounds	6 to 7	71.2 cubic feet	14.4 cubic feet
2022 Kia Telluride	$34,725	291-hp 3.8-liter V6	114.2 inches	196.9 inches	4112 pounds	7 to 8	87 cubic feet	21 cubic feet
2022 Hyundai Palisade	$34,895	291-hp 3.8-liter V6	114.2 inches	196.1 inches	4127 pounds	7 to 8	86.4 cubic feet	18 cubic feet
2022 Chevrolet Traverse	$35,095	310-hp 3.6-liter V6	120.93 inches	205.9 inches	4310 pounds	7 to 8	98.2 cubic feet	23 cubic feet

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