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Traveling with a zoom zoom attitude
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My family loves the beach as much as the mountains…and thanks to our home location, we are about four hours from either. There is nothing better than jumping in the car, unplanned, and taking off on an unplanned trip. That is, of course, if you have a comfortable, reliable vehicle to travel in, and today, that proves to be more and more of a challenge..jpg)
In today’s marketplace, choosing a new family vehicle is a tough decision. SUVs are so frowned upon due to fuel economy, and the newer models seem to have drastically cut storage/luggage space and shrunk leg room for rear-riding passengers. It’s hard for a large family to consider a truck as a “family vehicle,” and sedans just aren’t big enough for families the size of mine. Considering children, car seats, strollers, sports equipment, luggage, and groceries, what is a family to do?
Solution
The 2009 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring is definitely a winner in the family vehicle category with a bold exterior appearance and state-of-the-art amenities throughout. A comfortable ride is expected and delivered from the zoom-zoom legend, and even though Mazda is renowned for sports cars, this SUV mimics that same feel behind the wheel. Powered by a 273-horsepower 3.7L V-6 engine, this vehicle easily climbs the hills surrounding my neighborhood and gives me the security of knowing I can safely merge onto highway traffic without any hesitation of power.
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Exterior/InteriorSharp hood lines and an unmistakable grill bearing Mazda branding in the center give this vehicle striking good looks. Bright door finishes stand out in contrast to the unique color choices available on this SUV…red copper for instance…not your ordinary color choice. Also, 20-inch aluminum alloy wheels add to the overall aesthetics, putting something a little larger than normal between you and the pavement.
A quick investigation inside reveals a loaded dashboard full of innovative gizmos and gadgets, and easy-on-the-eyes soft backlighting. Front seats are heated and leather- trimmed and there is a third row of seating allowing for seven-passengers to ride in this vehicle. The steering wheel is leather-wrapped with audio and cruise controls literally at your fingertips, and the shift knob is also leather-wrapped. Behind the third row is a storage area where I was able to fit several sporting equipment bags. Also, with a one-hand quick fold down of the back seats, there is a ton of additional storage capacity.
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Safety featuresMazda is careful to remember that safety is always first and their crash test safety ratings prove that – they received five stars in both frontal and side crash tests on driver and passenger seats. Front and front side impact air bags are standard, as are third row side air curtains. Front and rear crumple zones, along with side impact door beams, offer great protection in accidents. Many anti-theft features are in place such as engine immobilization and perimeter alarm systems for your security as well.
Other safety features include dynamic stability control, roll stability control, and blind spot monitoring. I personally love the blind spot monitoring…a lighted sensor in the side mirrors warn you of vehicles in your blind spot!
My favorite features
- Smart Card keyless entry
- Soft lighting on the dashboard (this is great at night)
- Easy maneuvering in tight places
- Steering wheel controls
- Blind spot monitoring
My favorite add-ons
- Power moonroof with interior sunshade
- DVD Navigation System
- Power open and close tailgate
Overall impression
Mazda’s CX-9 is a definite keeper for families needing some space and comfort for traveling to the beach, the mountains, or simply across town. Hugging the road, this vehicle provides a smooth, enjoyable ride with Mazda’s sports car influence easily felt in the driver’s seat or as a passenger. You’ll be comforted knowing that it is safe and backed by a solid 36-month/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, and a 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Go ahead – zoom zoom!
Photos courtesy of Mazda USA.
2009 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring
Class: SUV
Fuel Economy: 15/21
Base Price: $35,205
www.MazdaUSA.com
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