I had the pleasure of driving the Mazda CX-9 Signature AWD and thoroughly enjoyed my time behind the wheel. I explored the Washington DC metropolitan area and ventured as far west as Western Maryland through Hagerstown on I-70, continuing northeast to parts of West Virginia on I-81, and ultimately reaching the vibrant city of Pittsburgh on I-70 and I-76.
The Signature model of the Mazda CX-9 offers a premium experience that competes with luxury models. It boasts an impressive array of technology features, but what stood out to me the most was its exceptional fit and finish. The model I drove featured deep chestnut Napa leather, exuding warm tones and adding to the overall luxurious feel.
The Mazda CX-9 Signature AWD also comes with 20-inch wheels, providing a stylish and commanding presence on the road. The second-row captain’s chairs were a great feature for my family, as we traveled together during my week with the CX-9. Both my son and mother enjoyed the comfortable seating arrangement as we explored various destinations.
Under the hood, the Mazda CX-9 Signature AWD houses a powerful turbocharged engine capable of producing 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque from its 2.5-liter turbo 4-cylinder engine. This level of performance proved to be quite robust. With an EPA-rated 26 miles per gallon on the highway, the CX-9 offers an impressive balance between power and fuel efficiency.
During my time with the CX-9, I truly appreciated its driving dynamics, especially while navigating the twisty roads on I-76. The handling was superb, providing a sense of confidence and control behind the wheel.
Inside the cabin, the Mazda CX-9 offers a connected and modern experience. It features an intuitive 9-inch multimedia display with wireless connectivity, as well as support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The Bose speakers provided excellent sound quality, allowing me to enjoy the music from the new album I created in collaboration with the Carnegie Mellon music department. The album, titled “Dah-Varsity: Origins of Superhero Rap,” serves as a curriculum to teach kids STEAM skills and introduces them to the industries of the future. In our game, players can even visit the Mazda Factory and view pictures of my visit to the Hiroshima plant where this car was manufactured.
In summary, the Mazda CX-9 Signature AWD offers a wonderful driving experience with its premium features, impressive performance, and stylish design. It combines luxury and functionality seamlessly, providing a comfortable and connected cabin for both driver and passengers. With its exceptional handling and advanced technology, the Mazda CX-9 Signature AWD is a standout choice in its segment.
The base price of the Mazda CX-9 Signature AWD starts at $48,460. For more information, visit Mazda USA’s website at mazdausa.com.