2010 Mazda CX-9

When you enjoy driving briskly and need a big crossover SUV to drag the kids, friends, or groceries along with you, the 2010 Mazda CX-9 is ready to rock.

Powering this spirited big boy is an all-aluminum 273-horsepower, 3.7-liter V-6 that gets bolted to a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift feature. Power is then sent on to a two- or all-wheel drive system, the latter distributes power between the front and rear wheels depending on driving conditions as monitored by an array of sensors. These powertrains get 15-16 mpg in the city and 21-22 mpg on the highway. Horsepower is competitive with the Chevrolet Traverse, Hyundai Veracruz and Toyota Highlander.

The Mazda CX-9’s stylish interior and exterior get refined for the 2010 model year. The exterior refresh includes a new front grille, headlamps and fog lamps. Interior design changes include chrome trim around various controls, piano black inserts on the steering wheel and around the audio display, new fabric on the Sport model and revised leather and stitching for seats in the Touring and Grand Touring models. For added appeal, the Sport and Touring models rides on 18-inch wheels, while the Grand Touring models get 20-inch rims.

Lots of cargo room is available inside the CX-9, starting with a minimum of 17.2 cubic feet even with all passenger seats occupied. Bluetooth connectivity is standard across the model line. The Grand Touring model dazzles with wood interior trim. An optional LCD display screen interfaces with audio and available backup camera systems. A BOSE audio system, rear seat entertainment, a power liftgate and a navigation system are also available.

You can ride relaxed knowing the 2010 Mazda CX-9 is always working to protect you, with features like the available Blind Spot Monitoring system. Four-wheel disc brakes with antilock and brake-force distribution features make the CX-9 a quick stopper. Stability and traction control systems couple with Roll Stability Control to help the driver maintain composure while making collision-avoidance maneuvers. With excellent structural engineering and a fleet of airbags, the CX-9 delivers Five-Star crash test ratings in all NHTSA impact tests, plus Four-Star ratings in rollover testing.

Three-row seating, a powerful V-6 engine and a stylish design make the 2010 Mazda CX-9 fast, fun and functional.