Exterior

I have to admit that the CX-9 is a good-looking car. Somehow, it doesn’t look as big as it is. It’s vaguely egg-shaped, but strategically placed chrome and subtle lines create an elegant look that suggests a much heftier price tag.

The CX-9 is a crossover, so it rides at sedan height, which makes getting in and out of it a breeze. The front has Mazda’s smiley-face look. The grille, xenon headlights and front bumper all work together to pull the eye out to the car’s corners. The CX-9’s profile was sleek but not sporty. The CX-9 seems to lean back on its wheels, like it’s in no hurry. Chrome trim around the tinted windows and on the door handles, as well as big, shiny 20-inch wheels, contributed to the CX-9’s rich look. From the rear, the CX-9 looks sportier, with dual chrome-tipped exhaust.

The doors open easily and close with a solid thud that speaks of security and safety. My kids had no problems opening them or getting in and out of the CX-9. A grab handle even offered assistance to those climbing into the third row. The rear cargo door is easy to manage and opened high enough to avoid bonking my head.

There’s a rearview camera available, but it seems to be angled straight downward. That’s great for making sure there aren’t any obstacles in your path, but it doesn’t help much when backing up.

Family Friendly (Not Really, Fair, Great, Excellent): Excellent
Fun-Factor (None, Some, Good Times, Groove-On): Some

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