Knowledge Library · Reviews

Powered by Pulse — Value Added. The #1 source of truth in revenue operations. Find the bottleneck. Fix the pipeline. Win the quarter.

Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027

Curated byKory White · Fractional CRO · Maryland

Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027

📖 3,011 words🗓️ Published Aug 26, 2026 · Updated Aug 6, 2026

Direct Answer

The 10 best best mazda cx-9 and cx-90 model years (ranked) are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

1. 2022 Mazda CX-9 Signature

Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 1

The 2022 CX-9 Signature ranks first as the most refined and reliable version of Mazda's first-generation three-row crossover. Its 227-hp turbo 2.5-liter four produces 310 lb-ft of torque, and the cabin features genuine Nappa leather and real rosewood trim. Mazda standardized the 10.25-inch display with wireless Apple CarPlay by this year, eliminating earlier infotainment quirks. The chassis tuning remains the sharpest in its class, though it retains a 6-speed automatic.

This is the pick for buyers who want a near-luxury three-row without the luxury badge, offering a premium interior that rivals German competitors. It trades away a usable third row for adults, which remains cramped, and its 6-speed automatic is dated against rivals' 8- or 9-speed units. Compared to the 2024 CX-90 below, it is less spacious and powerful but far more proven and affordable on the used market.

2. 2024 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S Premium Plus

Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 2

The 2024 CX-90 Turbo S Premium Plus ranks second for launching Mazda's new large platform with a 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six making 340 hp and 369 lb-ft. It pairs with an 8-speed automatic and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, and the third row finally fits real adults. The cabin is larger and more premium than the CX-9, with a plug-in hybrid variant also joining the lineup.

This is for buyers wanting the newest tech, more space, and the most powerful Mazda three-row yet. It trades away the proven reliability of the CX-9 for a more complex powertrain with first-year risk. Compared to the 2022 CX-9 Signature above, it offers significantly more power and room but costs more and lacks the years of refinement that make the CX-9 a safer used bet.

3. 2021 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring

Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 3

The 2021 CX-9 Grand Touring ranks third because it delivers nearly all the Signature trim's polish for thousands less on the used market. It includes leather seating, a power liftgate, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, and adaptive cruise control, with the same 227-hp turbo four. The 10.25-inch display with rotary controller became standard on upper trims this year. Reliability is strong, and depreciation has made it one of the smartest buys in the lineup.

This is for buyers who want loaded features without paying the Signature premium, offering a near-luxury experience at a value price. It trades away the genuine Nappa leather and rosewood trim of the Signature, but keeps the same proven powertrain and driving dynamics. Compared to the 2024 CX-90 above, it is smaller and less powerful but more affordable, reliable, and easier to live with daily.

4. 2020 Mazda CX-9 Touring

Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 4

The 2020 CX-9 Touring ranks fourth as the best value pick, sitting in the depreciation sweet spot around $23,000-$28,000 used. It gained a larger center display and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a refreshed interior. The Touring trim adds heated seats, a power liftgate, and blind-spot monitoring while skipping the priciest luxury add-ons. Reliability is among the best of any CX-9 year, making it a smart family choice.

This is for budget-conscious families who want maximum car per dollar, offering CarPlay, safety tech, and a turbo engine for under thirty grand. It trades away full leather upholstery for cloth-and-leatherette trim and retains the 6-speed automatic. Compared to the 2021 Grand Touring above, it has less standard luxury but a significantly lower entry price, making it the smarter financial pick.

5. 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Premium

Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 5

The 2025 CX-90 PHEV Premium ranks fifth for offering roughly 26 miles of electric-only range from a 17.8-kWh battery paired with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder. Combined output is 323 hp, and the 8-speed automatic benefits from software refinements that smoothed the launch-year transmission complaints. This is the efficiency play in the lineup, useful for buyers who can charge at home. It still provides six or seven seats with the larger CX-90 cabin.

This is for commuters who want electric range plus three-row practicality, potentially qualifying for federal and state PHEV incentives. It trades away the smoothness and power of the turbo inline-six for electric efficiency and a premium price. Compared to the 2020 CX-9 Touring above, it is far more expensive but offers modern tech, a usable third row, and lower running costs for home chargers.

6. 2019 Mazda CX-9 Signature

Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 6

The 2019 CX-9 Signature ranks sixth because it introduced standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to the top trim while keeping the Nappa leather and rosewood cabin. It is mechanically identical to later years, with the same 227-hp turbo four and 310 lb-ft of torque. Used prices are noticeably lower than 2021-2022 examples, making it a budget path into the Signature experience. The smaller 8-inch infotainment screen is its main compromise.

This is for buyers who want the Signature look and feel on a tighter budget, offering genuine luxury materials for less money. It trades away the larger 10.25-inch display and wireless CarPlay of later years, and most examples have higher mileage. Compared to the 2025 CX-90 PHEV above, it is older and less efficient but far more affordable and still a proven, reliable choice.

7. 2023 Mazda CX-9 Touring Plus

Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 7

The 2023 CX-9 Touring Plus ranks seventh as the final model year of the first-generation three-row, offering the lowest mileage of any used CX-9. The Touring Plus trim bundles leather, Bose audio, and driver-assist features into a clean value package. Build quality is strong in this final year, and the 227-hp turbo four remains proven. However, Mazda slimmed the trim lineup as it wound the model down.

This is for buyers who want the freshest CX-9 possible while staying on the older, more reliable platform. It trades away the larger CX-90's space and power for the highest used price among CX-9 years. Compared to the 2019 Signature above, it is newer with fewer miles but costs more, making it a choice for those prioritizing longevity over savings.

8. 2018 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring

Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 8

The 2018 CX-9 Grand Touring ranks eighth for offering a loaded, leather-equipped three-row often trading well under $20,000 used. It added a standard rearview camera with parking sensors and refined suspension tuning over the 2016-2017 launch years. The same 227-hp turbo four and 310 lb-ft of torque provide strong performance. It is a genuine bargain for budget shoppers who want a premium-feeling crossover.

This is for bargain hunters who want a fully featured older example without breaking the bank, delivering leather, a power liftgate, and the praised turbo powertrain. It trades away newer infotainment hardware and typically has higher mileage than later years. Compared to the 2023 CX-9 above, it is significantly cheaper but older and less refined, making it a trade-off of price versus modernity.

9. 2026 Mazda CX-90 Turbo Preferred

Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 9

The 2026 CX-90 Turbo Preferred ranks ninth as the sensible new-car buy, using the lower-output 280-hp tune of the inline-six with 332 lb-ft of torque. It runs on regular fuel, making it cheaper to operate than the Turbo S, and by the third model year Mazda has resolved most launch-year powertrain quirks. The Preferred trim keeps pricing reasonable while retaining the larger cabin and modern safety suite.

This is for new-car buyers who want the six-cylinder experience without the top-trim price, offering the space and power of the CX-90 at a more accessible cost. It trades away the 340-hp tune and some luxury features of higher trims. Compared to the 2018 CX-9 above, it is far more expensive but offers the latest tech, a usable third row, and a warranty.

10. 2016 Mazda CX-9 Signature

Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 10

The 2016 Mazda CX-9 Signature ranks tenth as the launch-year flagship, debuting the second-generation model with praised styling and the 227-hp turbo four. It is the cheapest way into a CX-9 today, but it has the oldest infotainment and lacks standard Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The Signature trim brought Nappa leather and rosewood that defined the model.

This is for collectors or budget buyers who want the launch-year design at the lowest possible price, offering the same praised powertrain and sharp handling. It trades away modern tech and reliability refinements, with early production issues like infotainment lag and occasional sunroof leaks. Compared to the 2026 CX-90 above, it is vastly cheaper but older, less safe, and requires more maintenance.

How we ranked these

We ranked each model year by reliability records, powertrain performance, interior quality, third-row usability, IIHS and NHTSA safety scores, infotainment features, and used-market value. Data came from Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, U.S. News, Consumer Reports, the IIHS, the EPA, and Mazda USA. A strong engine could not offset persistent infotainment bugs or transmission issues, so each year was judged as a complete package.

We deliberately ignored subjective styling preferences, brand loyalty, and dealer incentives, as these do not reflect long-term ownership satisfaction. We also excluded resale value projections beyond current market data, since future depreciation is speculative. Our focus remained on verifiable facts: documented reliability trends, real horsepower figures, safety ratings, and typical used prices, ensuring the ranking is practical for buyers rather than based on marketing hype.

FAQ

What is the most reliable model year for the Mazda CX-9?

The 2020 and 2021 Mazda CX-9 are widely considered the most reliable, as they benefited from years of incremental improvements after the 2016 redesign. These years have fewer reported issues with the SkyActiv-G 2.5T engine and the six-speed automatic transmission, and they include the updated infotainment with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

How does the 2024 Mazda CX-90 compare to the older CX-9?

The CX-90 is larger, more premium, and offers a new rear-biased all-wheel-drive platform with a 280-hp turbocharged inline-six or a plug-in hybrid. However, early models have faced transmission and electrical glitches. The CX-9 offers a proven 227-hp turbo four-cylinder and a more affordable used price, making it a safer, cheaper choice.

Which Mazda CX-9 year should I avoid?

The 2016 CX-9, the first year of the current generation, is best avoided due to early production issues like infotainment lag, occasional sunroof leaks, and some transmission hesitation. Later model years, especially 2018 onward, resolved most of these problems, so stick with 2018 or newer.

Is the Mazda CX-90 more expensive to maintain than the CX-9?

Yes, the CX-90 generally costs more to maintain due to its more complex inline-six engine and hybrid components, as well as newer, pricier parts. The CX-9, with its simpler turbo four-cylinder and established parts supply, typically has lower annual maintenance costs, especially for older model years.

What is the best value Mazda CX-9 for a family on a budget?

The 2020 Mazda CX-9 Touring offers the best balance of price and features, with a used price range of roughly $23,000 to $28,000. It includes the updated 9-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a spacious third row, making it a practical and affordable choice for families.

Does the Mazda CX-90 have better safety ratings than the CX-9?

Both vehicles have earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, but the CX-90 has slightly newer safety tech, including standard forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. The CX-9 also scores well, but its older design means some advanced features are only available on higher trims.

What is the difference between the CX-9 and CX-90 powertrains?

The CX-9 uses a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 227 hp (250 on premium) and a six-speed automatic. The CX-90 offers a 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six with 280 or 340 hp, paired with an eight-speed automatic and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The CX-90 also has a plug-in hybrid option with 323 hp.

Which Mazda CX-9 trim is the best for luxury features?

The Signature trim is the top luxury choice, featuring genuine Nappa leather, real rosewood trim, LED accent lighting, and a 10.25-inch display. The 2022 Signature is the most refined, but the 2019 Signature offers similar luxury at a lower used price, though with a smaller 8-inch screen.

Is the Mazda CX-90 PHEV worth the extra cost?

The CX-90 PHEV is worth it if you can charge at home and want electric range for daily commutes. It offers roughly 26 miles of EV range and 323 hp, with federal and state incentives potentially lowering the price. However, it costs more than the gas inline-six, so calculate your savings based on driving habits.

What is the best budget Mazda three-row SUV?

The 2018 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring is a great budget pick, often under $20,000 used. It includes leather, a power liftgate, and the same turbo four-cylinder as newer models. The 2020 CX-9 Touring is also excellent for around $25,000, offering better infotainment and reliability.

Sources

flowchart TD S["Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years "] S --> N0["1. 2022 Mazda CX-9 Signature"] N0 --> N1["2. 2024 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S Premium Pl"] N1 --> N2["3. 2021 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring"] N2 --> N3["4. 2020 Mazda CX-9 Touring"]

flowchart LR C["Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years "] C --> H0["8. 2018 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring"] C --> H1["9. 2026 Mazda CX-90 Turbo Preferred"] C --> H2["10. 2016 Mazda CX-9 Signature"] C --> H3["How we ranked these"]

Related on PULSE

[Best Mazda CX-50 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027](/knowledge/ca0613)
[Best Mazda CX-5 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027](/knowledge/ca0365)
[Best Mazda CX-30 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027](/knowledge/ca0430)
[Best Mazda CX-90 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027](/knowledge/ca0615)
[Best Mazda Tribute Model Years (Ranked) in 2027](/knowledge/ca0616)
[Best Mazda CX-3 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027](/knowledge/ca0614)

Download:

## Direct Answer

The 10 best best mazda cx-9 and cx-90 model years (ranked) are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

## 1. 2022 Mazda CX-9 Signature

![Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 1](/assets/qa/ca0398-b1.jpg)


```mermaid
flowchart TD
  S["Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years "]
  S --> N0["1. 2022 Mazda CX-9 Signature"]
  N0 --> N1["2. 2024 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S Premium Pl"]
  N1 --> N2["3. 2021 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring"]
  N2 --> N3["4. 2020 Mazda CX-9 Touring"]
```



The 2022 CX-9 Signature ranks first as the most refined and reliable version of Mazda's first-generation three-row crossover. Its 227-hp turbo 2.5-liter four produces 310 lb-ft of torque, and the cabin features genuine Nappa leather and real rosewood trim. Mazda standardized the 10.25-inch display with wireless Apple CarPlay by this year, eliminating earlier infotainment quirks. The chassis tuning remains the sharpest in its class, though it retains a 6-speed automatic.

This is the pick for buyers who want a near-luxury three-row without the luxury badge, offering a premium interior that rivals German competitors. It trades away a usable third row for adults, which remains cramped, and its 6-speed automatic is dated against rivals' 8- or 9-speed units. Compared to the 2024 CX-90 below, it is less spacious and powerful but far more proven and affordable on the used market.

## 2. 2024 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S Premium Plus

![Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 2](/assets/qa/ca0398-b2.jpg)


```mermaid
flowchart LR
  C["Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years "]
  C --> H0["8. 2018 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring"]
  C --> H1["9. 2026 Mazda CX-90 Turbo Preferred"]
  C --> H2["10. 2016 Mazda CX-9 Signature"]
  C --> H3["How we ranked these"]
```



The 2024 CX-90 Turbo S Premium Plus ranks second for launching Mazda's new large platform with a 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six making 340 hp and 369 lb-ft. It pairs with an 8-speed automatic and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, and the third row finally fits real adults. The cabin is larger and more premium than the CX-9, with a plug-in hybrid variant also joining the lineup.

This is for buyers wanting the newest tech, more space, and the most powerful Mazda three-row yet. It trades away the proven reliability of the CX-9 for a more complex powertrain with first-year risk. Compared to the 2022 CX-9 Signature above, it offers significantly more power and room but costs more and lacks the years of refinement that make the CX-9 a safer used bet.

## 3. 2021 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring

![Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 3](/assets/qa/ca0398-b3.jpg)



The 2021 CX-9 Grand Touring ranks third because it delivers nearly all the Signature trim's polish for thousands less on the used market. It includes leather seating, a power liftgate, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, and adaptive cruise control, with the same 227-hp turbo four. The 10.25-inch display with rotary controller became standard on upper trims this year. Reliability is strong, and depreciation has made it one of the smartest buys in the lineup.

This is for buyers who want loaded features without paying the Signature premium, offering a near-luxury experience at a value price. It trades away the genuine Nappa leather and rosewood trim of the Signature, but keeps the same proven powertrain and driving dynamics. Compared to the 2024 CX-90 above, it is smaller and less powerful but more affordable, reliable, and easier to live with daily.

## 4. 2020 Mazda CX-9 Touring

![Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 4](/assets/qa/ca0398-b4.jpg)



The 2020 CX-9 Touring ranks fourth as the best value pick, sitting in the depreciation sweet spot around $23,000-$28,000 used. It gained a larger center display and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a refreshed interior. The Touring trim adds heated seats, a power liftgate, and blind-spot monitoring while skipping the priciest luxury add-ons. Reliability is among the best of any CX-9 year, making it a smart family choice.

This is for budget-conscious families who want maximum car per dollar, offering CarPlay, safety tech, and a turbo engine for under thirty grand. It trades away full leather upholstery for cloth-and-leatherette trim and retains the 6-speed automatic. Compared to the 2021 Grand Touring above, it has less standard luxury but a significantly lower entry price, making it the smarter financial pick.

## 5. 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Premium

![Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 5](/assets/qa/ca0398-b5.jpg)



The 2025 CX-90 PHEV Premium ranks fifth for offering roughly 26 miles of electric-only range from a 17.8-kWh battery paired with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder. Combined output is 323 hp, and the 8-speed automatic benefits from software refinements that smoothed the launch-year transmission complaints. This is the efficiency play in the lineup, useful for buyers who can charge at home. It still provides six or seven seats with the larger CX-90 cabin.

This is for commuters who want electric range plus three-row practicality, potentially qualifying for federal and state PHEV incentives. It trades away the smoothness and power of the turbo inline-six for electric efficiency and a premium price. Compared to the 2020 CX-9 Touring above, it is far more expensive but offers modern tech, a usable third row, and lower running costs for home chargers.

## 6. 2019 Mazda CX-9 Signature

![Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 6](/assets/qa/ca0398-b6.jpg)



The 2019 CX-9 Signature ranks sixth because it introduced standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to the top trim while keeping the Nappa leather and rosewood cabin. It is mechanically identical to later years, with the same 227-hp turbo four and 310 lb-ft of torque. Used prices are noticeably lower than 2021-2022 examples, making it a budget path into the Signature experience. The smaller 8-inch infotainment screen is its main compromise.

This is for buyers who want the Signature look and feel on a tighter budget, offering genuine luxury materials for less money. It trades away the larger 10.25-inch display and wireless CarPlay of later years, and most examples have higher mileage. Compared to the 2025 CX-90 PHEV above, it is older and less efficient but far more affordable and still a proven, reliable choice.

## 7. 2023 Mazda CX-9 Touring Plus

![Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 7](/assets/qa/ca0398-b7.jpg)



The 2023 CX-9 Touring Plus ranks seventh as the final model year of the first-generation three-row, offering the lowest mileage of any used CX-9. The Touring Plus trim bundles leather, Bose audio, and driver-assist features into a clean value package. Build quality is strong in this final year, and the 227-hp turbo four remains proven. However, Mazda slimmed the trim lineup as it wound the model down.

This is for buyers who want the freshest CX-9 possible while staying on the older, more reliable platform. It trades away the larger CX-90's space and power for the highest used price among CX-9 years. Compared to the 2019 Signature above, it is newer with fewer miles but costs more, making it a choice for those prioritizing longevity over savings.

## 8. 2018 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring

![Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 8](/assets/qa/ca0398-b8.jpg)



The 2018 CX-9 Grand Touring ranks eighth for offering a loaded, leather-equipped three-row often trading well under $20,000 used. It added a standard rearview camera with parking sensors and refined suspension tuning over the 2016-2017 launch years. The same 227-hp turbo four and 310 lb-ft of torque provide strong performance. It is a genuine bargain for budget shoppers who want a premium-feeling crossover.

This is for bargain hunters who want a fully featured older example without breaking the bank, delivering leather, a power liftgate, and the praised turbo powertrain. It trades away newer infotainment hardware and typically has higher mileage than later years. Compared to the 2023 CX-9 above, it is significantly cheaper but older and less refined, making it a trade-off of price versus modernity.

## 9. 2026 Mazda CX-90 Turbo Preferred

![Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 9](/assets/qa/ca0398-b9.jpg)



The 2026 CX-90 Turbo Preferred ranks ninth as the sensible new-car buy, using the lower-output 280-hp tune of the inline-six with 332 lb-ft of torque. It runs on regular fuel, making it cheaper to operate than the Turbo S, and by the third model year Mazda has resolved most launch-year powertrain quirks. The Preferred trim keeps pricing reasonable while retaining the larger cabin and modern safety suite.

This is for new-car buyers who want the six-cylinder experience without the top-trim price, offering the space and power of the CX-90 at a more accessible cost. It trades away the 340-hp tune and some luxury features of higher trims. Compared to the 2018 CX-9 above, it is far more expensive but offers the latest tech, a usable third row, and a warranty.

## 10. 2016 Mazda CX-9 Signature

![Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 10](/assets/qa/ca0398-b10.jpg)



The 2016 Mazda CX-9 Signature ranks tenth as the launch-year flagship, debuting the second-generation model with praised styling and the 227-hp turbo four. It is the cheapest way into a CX-9 today, but it has the oldest infotainment and lacks standard Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The Signature trim brought Nappa leather and rosewood that defined the model.

This is for collectors or budget buyers who want the launch-year design at the lowest possible price, offering the same praised powertrain and sharp handling. It trades away modern tech and reliability refinements, with early production issues like infotainment lag and occasional sunroof leaks. Compared to the 2026 CX-90 above, it is vastly cheaper but older, less safe, and requires more maintenance.

## How we ranked these

We ranked each model year by reliability records, powertrain performance, interior quality, third-row usability, IIHS and NHTSA safety scores, infotainment features, and used-market value. Data came from Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, U.S. News, Consumer Reports, the IIHS, the EPA, and Mazda USA. A strong engine could not offset persistent infotainment bugs or transmission issues, so each year was judged as a complete package.

We deliberately ignored subjective styling preferences, brand loyalty, and dealer incentives, as these do not reflect long-term ownership satisfaction. We also excluded resale value projections beyond current market data, since future depreciation is speculative. Our focus remained on verifiable facts: documented reliability trends, real horsepower figures, safety ratings, and typical used prices, ensuring the ranking is practical for buyers rather than based on marketing hype.

## Related questions

### What is the best Mazda CX-9 model year?

The 2022 Mazda CX-9 Signature is the best overall CX-9. It has the refined turbo 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 227 hp (250 on premium), genuine Nappa leather, and a 10.25-inch display with wireless Apple CarPlay. By this year, Mazda had resolved earlier infotainment quirks, making it the most polished and reliable version of the first-generation three-row.

### What is the best Mazda CX-90 model year?

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 Turbo Preferred is the best CX-90 year. It uses the 280-hp 3.3-liter inline-six on regular fuel, and by the third model year, Mazda had smoothed out the launch-year transmission shift roughness. It offers the larger cabin and modern safety suite with fewer first-year risks than the 2024 or 2025 models.

### Which Mazda CX-9 years should you avoid?

Avoid the 2016 Mazda CX-9, the first year of the current generation. It had early production issues like infotainment lag, occasional sunroof leaks, and transmission hesitation. Later years, especially 2018 onward, resolved most of these problems, so stick with 2018 or newer for better reliability.

### Is the Mazda CX-90 more reliable than the CX-9?

The CX-9, particularly the 2020-2022 model years, has a proven reliability record with the turbo 2.5-liter four and six-speed automatic. The CX-90 is newer and more complex, with early 2024 models reporting transmission shift roughness. The 2026 CX-90 has improved, but the CX-9 remains the safer bet for long-term reliability.

### What is the best value Mazda CX-9 for a family?

The 2020 Mazda CX-9 Touring is the best value. It trades around $23,000-$28,000 used and includes the larger center display, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated seats, a power liftgate, and blind-spot monitoring. It has excellent reliability and offers the most car for the money in the lineup.

### How does the CX-90's third row compare to the CX-9's?

The CX-90's third row is genuinely usable for adults, with more legroom and headroom than the CX-9. The CX-9's third row is tight and best for children or short trips. If you regularly carry adults in the third row, the CX-90 is the better choice, despite its higher price.

### Which Mazda three-row has the best fuel economy?

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV offers the best fuel economy with roughly 26 miles of electric-only range and 323 hp combined. When charged regularly, it can achieve high MPGe ratings. The gas-only CX-90 inline-six and CX-9 turbo four are less efficient, with the CX-9 typically getting around 22-28 mpg.

## FAQ

**What is the most reliable model year for the Mazda CX-9?**

The 2020 and 2021 Mazda CX-9 are widely considered the most reliable, as they benefited from years of incremental improvements after the 2016 redesign. These years have fewer reported issues with the SkyActiv-G 2.5T engine and the six-speed automatic transmission, and they include the updated infotainment with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

**How does the 2024 Mazda CX-90 compare to the older CX-9?**

The CX-90 is larger, more premium, and offers a new rear-biased all-wheel-drive platform with a 280-hp turbocharged inline-six or a plug-in hybrid. However, early models have faced transmission and electrical glitches. The CX-9 offers a proven 227-hp turbo four-cylinder and a more affordable used price, making it a safer, cheaper choice.

**Which Mazda CX-9 year should I avoid?**

The 2016 CX-9, the first year of the current generation, is best avoided due to early production issues like infotainment lag, occasional sunroof leaks, and some transmission hesitation. Later model years, especially 2018 onward, resolved most of these problems, so stick with 2018 or newer.

**Is the Mazda CX-90 more expensive to maintain than the CX-9?**

Yes, the CX-90 generally costs more to maintain due to its more complex inline-six engine and hybrid components, as well as newer, pricier parts. The CX-9, with its simpler turbo four-cylinder and established parts supply, typically has lower annual maintenance costs, especially for older model years.

**What is the best value Mazda CX-9 for a family on a budget?**

The 2020 Mazda CX-9 Touring offers the best balance of price and features, with a used price range of roughly $23,000 to $28,000. It includes the updated 9-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a spacious third row, making it a practical and affordable choice for families.

**Does the Mazda CX-90 have better safety ratings than the CX-9?**

Both vehicles have earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, but the CX-90 has slightly newer safety tech, including standard forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. The CX-9 also scores well, but its older design means some advanced features are only available on higher trims.

**What is the difference between the CX-9 and CX-90 powertrains?**

The CX-9 uses a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 227 hp (250 on premium) and a six-speed automatic. The CX-90 offers a 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six with 280 or 340 hp, paired with an eight-speed automatic and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The CX-90 also has a plug-in hybrid option with 323 hp.

**Which Mazda CX-9 trim is the best for luxury features?**

The Signature trim is the top luxury choice, featuring genuine Nappa leather, real rosewood trim, LED accent lighting, and a 10.25-inch display. The 2022 Signature is the most refined, but the 2019 Signature offers similar luxury at a lower used price, though with a smaller 8-inch screen.

**Is the Mazda CX-90 PHEV worth the extra cost?**

The CX-90 PHEV is worth it if you can charge at home and want electric range for daily commutes. It offers roughly 26 miles of EV range and 323 hp, with federal and state incentives potentially lowering the price. However, it costs more than the gas inline-six, so calculate your savings based on driving habits.

**What is the best budget Mazda three-row SUV?**

The 2018 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring is a great budget pick, often under $20,000 used. It includes leather, a power liftgate, and the same turbo four-cylinder as newer models. The 2020 CX-9 Touring is also excellent for around $25,000, offering better infotainment and reliability.

## Sources

- https://www.caranddriver.com/mazda/cx-9
- https://www.caranddriver.com/mazda/cx-90
- https://www.motortrend.com/cars/mazda/cx-90/
- https://www.edmunds.com/mazda/cx-9/
- https://www.edmunds.com/mazda/cx-90/
- https://www.kbb.com/mazda/cx-9/
- https://www.kbb.com/mazda/cx-90/
- https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/mazda/cx-9-2023
- https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/mazda/cx-90-2024
- https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/PowerSearch.do?action=noargs&year=2024&make=Mazda&model=CX-90

## Related on PULSE

- [Best Mazda CX-50 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027](/knowledge/ca0613)
- [Best Mazda CX-5 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027](/knowledge/ca0365)
- [Best Mazda CX-30 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027](/knowledge/ca0430)
- [Best Mazda CX-90 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027](/knowledge/ca0615)
- [Best Mazda Tribute Model Years (Ranked) in 2027](/knowledge/ca0616)
- [Best Mazda CX-3 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027](/knowledge/ca0614)

Was this helpful?

This page will be disappearing soon.

Download the whole page as a PDF to keep — just $1.

⌬ Apply this in PULSE

Pulse CheckScore reps on the metrics that matter

Best Mazda CX-9 and CX-90 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027

1. 2022 Mazda CX-9 Signature

2. 2024 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S Premium Plus

3. 2021 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring

4. 2020 Mazda CX-9 Touring

5. 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Premium

6. 2019 Mazda CX-9 Signature

7. 2023 Mazda CX-9 Touring Plus

8. 2018 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring

9. 2026 Mazda CX-90 Turbo Preferred

10. 2016 Mazda CX-9 Signature

How we ranked these

Related questions

What is the best Mazda CX-9 model year?

What is the best Mazda CX-90 model year?

Which Mazda CX-9 years should you avoid?

Is the Mazda CX-90 more reliable than the CX-9?

What is the best value Mazda CX-9 for a family?

How does the CX-90's third row compare to the CX-9's?

Which Mazda three-row has the best fuel economy?

FAQ

Sources

Related on PULSE

Two scores — Gate vs IQ