The Good
The 2018 Mazda CX-9 excels in performance with its responsive turbo engine. Practical buyers will appreciate its decent fuel efficiency for its class and strong safety ratings. The comfortable and well-appointed interior, along with its stylish design, appeals to emotional buyers seeking a premium experience without the premium price tag. Reliability is generally good, contributing to its overall value.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2018 Mazda CX-9 include a slightly cramped third-row seat, making it less suitable for adults on long trips. The infotainment system, while improved, isn't as intuitive as some competitors. Some owners have reported issues with the turbocharger or electronic systems, so a thorough inspection is recommended before purchasing. The towing capacity is also less than some competitors.
2018 Mazda CX-9: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 2.5L Turbocharged Inline-4
- Horsepower: 227 hp (on 87 octane), 250 hp (on 93 octane)
- Fuel Economy:
- FWD: 22 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
- AWD: 20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times: Approximately 7.1-7.5 seconds (depending on configuration)
- Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs
- Trim-Level Features:
- Sport: LED headlights, Mazda Connect infotainment system with 7-inch display, rearview camera, cloth upholstery, three-zone automatic climate control.
- Touring: Leather upholstery, heated front seats, power liftgate, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, 8-inch display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility (available).
- Grand Touring: Adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, sunroof, navigation, premium Bose audio system, heated second-row seats, ventilated front seats, 360-degree view monitor.
- Signature: Premium Nappa leather upholstery, rosewood interior trim, LED accent lighting, unique grille design, AWD standard.
2018 Mazda CX-9 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2018 |
| Make | Mazda |
| Model | CX-9 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Small Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | HIROSHIMA |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 175.26 cm |
| Overall Length | 506.48 cm |
| Overall Width | 196.85 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 292.86 cm |
| Standard Seating | 7 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.5-L |
| Engine Size | 2.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $33,930 USD |
| Invoice Price | $32,111 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $940 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2018 Mazda CX-9 Have?
Recalls for the 2018 CX-9 have included issues related to fuel pump failures, which can lead to stalling. Check the NHTSA website for the most up-to-date recall information. Long-term reliability concerns are generally average for the class. Regular maintenance, especially oil changes with the correct synthetic oil, is crucial for maintaining the turbocharger's health. Addressing minor electronic issues promptly can prevent them from escalating. While not inherently unreliable, proactively maintaining the vehicle is key to mitigating potential long-term problems.
How long will the 2018 Mazda CX-9 last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features are comprehensive, including standard stability control, traction control, and multiple airbags. Optional features include a 360-degree view monitor. The 2018 Mazda CX-9 received excellent crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). The IIHS awarded it a "Top Safety Pick+" rating, indicating superior performance in crash tests and advanced safety technology. Specific scores vary depending on the organization, but overall, the CX-9 demonstrates a high level of safety.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2018 Mazda CX-9 Prices and Market Value
2018 Mazda CX-9 Cost of Ownership
2018 Mazda CX-9 Fuel Efficiency
2018 Mazda CX-9 Safety Rating
NHTSA
2018 Mazda CX-9 Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2018 Mazda CX-9 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2018 Mazda CX-9 Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
Price-wise, the CX-9 is typically positioned competitively, often offering a more premium feel for a similar price point. A similar alternative would be the Kia Telluride, which offers excellent value and features. The Honda Pilot offers more space and cargo capacity. The Toyota Highlander is a reliable choice but may lack the CX-9's sporty driving dynamics. If a larger third row is a priority, the Pilot or Highlander might be better choices. If a more engaging driving experience and stylish design are desired, the CX-9 is a strong contender.
Ranks #377 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0β ) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0β ) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0β ) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0β ) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0β ) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0β ) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0β ) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0β ) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0β ) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0β ) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0β ) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0β ) |
| 377 | 2018 Mazda CX-9 | (5.0β ) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2018 Mazda CX-9 a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
Jay on July 24, 2022
Gas mileage is a jokeHorrible cockpit layout, A/C gets cool but never cold. Lots of road noise. Terrible gas mileage, no where the 26 mpg advertised. My Honda Pilot with a V6 got better gas mileage. Having extreme buyers remorse.
Andy on April 23, 2021
Best car ever!!I really enjoy to drive this suv!!I have for 3 years and I never had any problem!!Pleasure to drive!! Very good value for money!!Five stars Γ°ΕΈβΒ
partsman on February 13, 2021
So far this is the nicest SUV I have ever owned!This SUV replaced a 2009 Saturn Outlook we owned, and it has excelled in everyway over that one! Luxurious interior better performance and gas mileage .Handles like a sports car and plenty of standard options! Cant say enough nice things about it! Only one thing and we knew that before we bought it that cargo space with third row seat was limited, other than that I am totally satisfied! Good warranty also! It only had 23000 miles on it, came off a lease so it was like new! Great used car buy! It's my daily driver.
Joe's new toy on January 22, 2021
Great features that were easy to navigate!This car has met all our needs; lots of leg room, head room, super comfortable and the safety features are very reassuring! Heated seats and A/C front and back and lots of USB ports!
Keith on January 6, 2021
The Mazda CX9 - a lot of value for the costI like the interior features and the CX9 drives well, more like a sedan than SUV. I like the reliablity. It's the first non-Toyota I've purchased in over 20 years. The Highlander is a great SUV but for the money the CX9 is the better option. The features, cost, reliablity and driving performance made it more compelling to me.
FirstMazdaOwner on December 9, 2020
Best family SUV without being large!MY FIRST MAZDA! I absolutely love this car! I traded in my terrible 2018 Honda Odyssey for this. While it is smaller than a Minivan it's much better in every way! I purchased the touring which is just above the base model. But it has everything I need. The adaptive cruise control works flawlessly, it gets up and goes with no lag, it's easy to park, and I got the dealership to add Apple Car Play. I love walking up to this car and getting into it. The car isn't a large SUV so I don't feel like im still driving a Minivan. It fits our family of 4 comfortably. The car only has 25,000 miles on it but with Mazda being rated the number one brand for reliability by Consumer reports, I don't have any doubts that this car will last us for years to come!
KJP on November 2, 2020
Best car I've ever owned.I LOVE the cx9. I had a 2013 and loved how it handled. I traded it in for a 2018 with the skyactiv technology. I was skeptical that it would have the same pickup as my v6, but it does not disappoint! It is the most comfortable car with the best pickup of any car I've owned. No complaints at all, I highly recommend the cx9 to anyone!
SalfromtheBurgh on July 7, 2020
Great mid sized SUVGot the Signature and all it was missing was Apple Car Play. Once I found out Mazda will install it for a reasonable fee this car is amazing. The only downside is small fuel tank with less than stellar fuel economy.
Ed on June 30, 2020
Great driving car with a beautiful interior.We owned a CX-9 years ago and really liked it. More than a decade later, Mazda has refined the design to make a great handling, nice looking vehicle. We bought the Signature model and the interior is extremely well designed and appointed. Plus, the 4-cyl turbo gets up and goes!
Blunn on May 29, 2020
Very smooth rideLove all features that car has to offer. A lot more room inside than appears. Gets excellent gas mileage and due to type of oil used can go longer between oil changes so saves me money
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.