The Good
The 2013 Mazda CX-9 offers spirited performance, thanks to its powerful V6 engine. It balances comfort with agile handling. Its stylish design provides an emotional appeal, while reliability and spaciousness cater to practical needs. Value is strong, offering a lot of SUV for the price.
The Bad
Fuel economy is a known weakness of the 2013 Mazda CX-9. Some owners have reported issues with the water pump and potential transmission problems at higher mileage. Inspect for rust, especially in areas with harsh winters. Also, the infotainment system is dated compared to newer vehicles.
2013 Mazda CX-9: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 3.7-liter V6
- Horsepower: 273 hp
- Fuel Economy: EPA estimated 17 mpg city / 24 mpg highway (FWD)
- 0-60 Times: Around 7.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs
- Trim-Level Features:
- Sport: Cloth upholstery, 18-inch alloy wheels, tri-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker sound system.
- Touring: Leather upholstery, heated front seats, power driver's seat, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert.
- Grand Touring: 20-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, LED taillights, upgraded leather upholstery, a power liftgate, a Bose audio system, navigation system, and driver-seat memory functions.
- Safety Features (All Trims): Antilock brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags.
- Infotainment: All trims include a basic infotainment system with a small display screen. Higher trims offer a larger touchscreen display and navigation.
- Seating: Seating for seven passengers.
- Drivetrain: Available in front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD).
2013 Mazda CX-9 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2013 |
| Make | Mazda |
| Model | CX-9 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | - |
| Category | - |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | - |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
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| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | - |
| Engine Size | - |
| Engine Cylinders | - |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2013 Mazda CX-9 Have?
Recalls for the 2013 CX-9 have included issues related to the fuel pump and potential fuel leakage, which could increase the risk of a fire. It's important to check the vehicle's VIN on the NHTSA website to ensure all applicable recalls have been addressed.
Long-term reliability can be affected by regular maintenance. Keeping up with fluid changes, especially transmission fluid, can mitigate some of the reported issues. The infotainment system is also dated and may not offer the features found in newer vehicles, although this is more of a technological issue than a reliability concern.
How long will the 2013 Mazda CX-9 last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features are relatively limited compared to modern vehicles. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on the Touring and Grand Touring trims. Standard safety features include antilock brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags.
Optional features included a power liftgate, sunroof, and rear-seat entertainment system. Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA generally show good performance, with overall ratings of 4 or 5 stars, depending on the specific test. The IIHS also gave it generally good ratings in their crash tests.
Overall, the tech is dated by today's standards but functional. Safety is adequate for its time but lacks the advanced features found in newer SUVs.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2013 Mazda CX-9 Prices and Market Value
2013 Mazda CX-9 Cost of Ownership
2013 Mazda CX-9 Fuel Efficiency
2013 Mazda CX-9 Safety Rating
NHTSA
2013 Mazda CX-9 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2013 Mazda CX-9 Compare to Other Vehicle?
Reliability is generally good, but the Toyota Highlander is often considered more reliable long-term. The Honda Pilot offers similar reliability and a more spacious interior. Price-wise, the CX-9 is often more affordable on the used market than the Highlander and Pilot.
Alternatives to consider include:
- Toyota Highlander: For superior reliability and a more comfortable ride.
- Honda Pilot: For a spacious interior and balanced performance.
- Ford Explorer: For more modern features and available power.
If sporty handling is a priority, the CX-9 remains a good choice. However, for overall reliability and practicality, the Highlander or Pilot might be better options.
Ranks #403 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 403 | 2013 Mazda CX-9 | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2013 Mazda CX-9 a Good Vehicle?
Nell Jackson on January 4, 2023
2013 Mazda CX-9 engine problem!!!I loved the car until the check engine light came on and I spent $2,800 to get timing chain etc fixed then 2 weeks later check engine light on again and oil had junk in it from sonewhere (I'm nit up on car engines so don't know details) car only has 130,000 miles on it---well cared for. highway miles!!! now it's in the shop requiring a replacement engine to the tune of $5,000 plus!!! I'm sick. but from reading othrr reviews, i finding out this is not unusual for this model car!! Mazda company should be held responsible for this--- fat chance!!! I also have a 1997 Miata which has about 82,000 on it.. now I'm afraid to drive it !!!!
Ken on December 3, 2020
Very dependable great ratingsIts all I wanted couldn't ask for a better car our sales person very knowledgeable as well as professional not to mention personable thank you again Debi
Big Poppi on October 27, 2020
Great family car with Seating for 7This car has served us well. Very comfortable vehicle With all the options. 3 bench seats to seat up to 7 passengers. Great looking great running car.
IUMan66 on October 4, 2020
Excellent vehicle until engine failure at 71k miThis car was trouble free until recently. It is comfortable, handles well, and is sporty. Honestly, we loved this car...until this past week. At just 71k mi, the water pump failed, spewing antifreeze into the engine, causing catastrophic engine failure. Apparently this is a common issue with the CX9 and the Mazda 6, and one for which Mazda has not accepted responsibility. So disappointed, as we had planned on purchasing another Mazda.
emmabobemma on September 26, 2020
I love MAZDAIve had every shape and size, I want style as well as function and Mazda does it all. Im a mother but I don't want to rock up in some wagon - thisSUV makes me feel swish when the kids are tucked up in bed and I can trolly the girls around without feeling like wearing mum jeans
CBG on September 5, 2020
Great drive and room, not so great mileageI genuinely loved my cx9 when I had it. It was roomy and the optional 3rd row came in handy. Had heated leather seats which I loved! Includes CD player, backup camera, and blind spot detection. Drives smooth and turns great. I test drive lots of SUVS and this one turned the best for getting into parking spots. Only downfall was the gas mileage. My work is an hour each way and I had to trade for a hybrid. I’m short but had no issue seeing well when driving.
MazdaFan on July 24, 2019
Most Reliable Car I Have OwnedThis car has met all my needs. Got 108,000 miles on the original tires. Got 140,000 on the original brakes. Tows a light trailer like there is nothing back there.
K on December 26, 2018
Big disappointment2013, 72,000 miles, bought used, had for w days, engine light came on, ended up being a major engine issue, gave car back to dealership
citygirl on October 12, 2018
Excellent reliability .Extremely comfortable and SUPER spacious. VERY quiet engine, very low maintenance as nothing nothing failed so far during the 5 yrs I have owned this vehicle except for new tires and Battery.
Kansas Traveler on August 7, 2018
Just purchased this used CX-9This is our first time owning a Mazda and we were a little hesitant because it has so many miles but after talking with other Mazda owners we hope to put another 100,000 thousand on it.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.