Mazda CX-9 2018 Review

In the E-segment SUV market, the demand for 7-seater models has always been stable—family users value space, while young buyers seek a balance between practicality and quality. The 2018 Mazda CX-9 2.5 SkyActiv-G Turbo 2WD (MY-spec) is designed specifically for this niche market, and its core selling points are straightforward: the power output of the SkyActiv-G turbocharged engine, its class-leading smart features, and Mazda's consistently impressive handling tuning. The purpose of this test drive is to see how it performs in scenarios like daily commuting and family outings, to determine if it truly meets Malaysian consumers' expectations for "balance."

From a distance, the body lines of the CX-9 are smooth and flowing. Its 5075mm length combined with a 2930mm wheelbase makes the vehicle look grand but not bulky. The front features Mazda's signature shield-shaped grille, filled with a black honeycomb structure, with chrome trim extending into the LED headlights on both sides, creating a strong sense of unity. The side profile boasts a character line running from the front fender to the taillights, while the lower skirts and wheel arches are given a slightly muscular design. Paired with 20-inch multi-spoke wheels, it appears sportier than many rivals in the same class. The rear design is relatively simple, with horizontally arranged LED taillights that are quite recognizable when lit. A chrome garnish on the rear bumper adds to the refined feel. The lighting system comes standard with LED bulbs, and the addition of automatic headlights and front fog lights enhances safety during nighttime or rainy-weather driving.

Opening the door, the quality of materials and layout of the interior immediately catch the eye. Most of the center console is covered in soft-touch leather, with leather wrapping also extending to the doors inside. The combination of silver trim and piano-black panels delivers a level of luxury beyond expectations. The center console features a 9-inch touchscreen tilted slightly towards the driver, making it easier to operate without looking down too much. A head-up display (HUD) and a TFT LCD multifunction instrument cluster come as standard. The HUD shows information such as speed and navigation, while the multifunction cluster allows for customizable display modes, adding to its practicality. In terms of features, keyless entry, a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat, and a 6-way power-adjustable passenger seat stand out. The front seats offer good support, ensuring comfort even on long journeys. The air conditioning system is tri-zone automatic, with independent rear outlets and a 220V power socket included, catering to the needs of rear passengers.

Space is a top concern for family users. The 2930mm wheelbase ensures spacious front and rear rows. A passenger of 175cm sitting in the front has a headroom clearance of one fist and two fingers. The legroom in the rear is approximately two fists, and the nearly flat floor provides ample space for three passengers without feeling cramped. The second-row seats can be folded in a 60:40 split and also slide forward or backward, allowing the third row to gain additional legroom when necessary—a passenger of 170cm sitting in the third row still has about one fist of legroom, though the headroom is slightly tight, making it more suitable for short trips. The standard trunk capacity is 230L, which can comfortably fit two 20-inch suitcases. Folding down the third row in a 50:50 split expands the cargo space significantly, making it practical for transporting larger items.

Starting the vehicle, the sound of the 2.5L turbocharged engine is very quiet. According to official data, this engine delivers a maximum horsepower of 231PS, and maximum torque is reached at 2000rpm. During actual driving, the power response at startup is very eager, and you can feel a noticeable push-back effect when stepping on the accelerator. When switched to Sport Mode, the gearbox shift logic becomes more aggressive, with very smooth connections during acceleration. For daily driving, the Normal Mode is sufficient, delivering stable power output, which is ideal for city commuting.

In terms of handling, the CX-9 has a moderately weighted steering wheel with minimal play, offering precise directional control. The suspension features a front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link independent suspension, tuned for comfort without sacrificing support. When passing over speed bumps or uneven roads, the suspension effectively absorbs most vibrations, without giving a significant sense of bumpiness. On curves, the body roll is well-managed, and with a minimum ground clearance of 220mm, its passability is decent. As for fuel consumption, the official combined fuel efficiency is rated at 9.1L/100km. During actual test driving, city road conditions result in about 10-11L/100km, while highway conditions bring it down to approximately 8L/100km. For an SUV of this class, this performance is fairly average.

Regarding comfort, the CX-9 excels in noise reduction. When driving, tire and wind noise are not prominent; only during rapid acceleration can the engine sound be heard inside the cabin, but it is not harsh. The seats offer good wrapping and support, and the rear seats are reasonably angled, ensuring long-distance rides remain comfortable. Noteworthy features include the 360-degree panoramic view and automated parking function, which are highly practical for such a large vehicle, making parking hassle-free even for beginners.

To sum up, the 2018 Mazda CX-9 2.5 SkyActiv-G Turbo 2WD has clear strengths: smooth and powerful engine output, rich configurations (especially intelligent safety features), spacious interior, and good interior quality. Compared to models in the same class, such as the Toyota Fortuner or Ford Everest, the CX-9 stands out with its luxurious feel and superior handling. Though its price is slightly higher than its competitors, the overall value-for-money remains high.

This vehicle is best suited for families who value well-balanced performance—offering 7-seat capacity for family outings while still ensuring impressive power output and handling for everyday driving. Younger buyers who prioritize a sense of quality and intelligent configurations may also consider it. For users who frequently drive on unpaved roads, the 4WD version might be a better choice, but the 2WD version is more than enough for city and highway conditions.

Overall, the 2018 Mazda CX-9 2.5 SkyActiv-G Turbo 2WD is an E-class SUV with "no obvious shortcomings." It strikes a great balance among space, power, features, and handling, making it a premium choice for family users.