Reviewing a Mazda without describing it as fun to drive is like cranking up your favorite tune and not playing air guitar: It’s just not possible. We would have gotten to it eventually, so in the interest of time, let's just get it out of the way right now: The 2019 Mazda CX-9 is fun to drive.
With that box checked, we can move on to the many other attributes that make Mazda’s largest and most expensive SUV such a standout in the extremely competitive three-row crossover class. Now in its second generation, the seven-passenger Mazda CX-9 is also stylish, fuel-efficient, and comfortable. It’s built with impressive attention to detail, features a high-quality interior, and offers many family-friendly features. Did I mention its high safety ratings? Am I gushing? What's more, Mazda has made further improvements to the CX-9 this year, helping it continue to stack up well against its long list of popular rivals. These include the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder, Hyundai Santa Fe XL, Volkswagen Atlas, and Kia Sorento.