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

📖 2,603 words🗓️ Published Aug 4, 2026

Direct Answer

The 10 best best mazda cx-9 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. 2021-2023 CX-9 Signature

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

The final second-generation Signature cars are the best three-row Mazda ever built before the CX-90. The 2.5-liter turbocharged SkyActiv-G makes 250 horsepower on 93-octane (227 on regular) and a muscular 320 lb-ft of torque from just 2,000 rpm, giving relaxed, torque-rich acceleration with a full family aboard.

Expect $30,000-$38,000 for a clean Signature, and it is worth it because nothing else in the class drives this well while feeling this luxurious. It trades away the lower price of earlier cars but buys the newest tech and the most refined cabin. Compared to the 2016-2018 Touring below, it costs thousands more for the same engine, but the interior and infotainment upgrades justify the premium for buyers who want the definitive CX-9 experience.

2. 2016-2018 CX-9 Touring

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

The launch years of the second generation are the value play, and the Touring trim is the sweet spot. These cars introduced the 2.5-liter turbo (then rated at 227 horsepower on regular fuel, 250 on premium) and the dramatically improved chassis, interior quality, and quietness that won the CX-9 universal critical praise. The Touring adds leather, a power liftgate, and blind-spot monitoring without the Signature's price.

Clean examples run $17,000-$23,000, which is a remarkable amount of three-row SUV for the money. That price-to-quality ratio makes it the clear best value in the range. It trades away the newer 10.25-inch screen and refreshed styling of the 2021-2023 Signature, but for most families the savings outweigh those refinements.

3. 2019-2020 CX-9 (second-gen, refreshed)

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

The mid-cycle 2019-2020 cars refined an already-excellent package. Mazda improved sound deadening, added Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, upgraded interior materials, and made more safety equipment standard, all paired with the same strong 2.5-liter turbo making 227-250 horsepower. These are the most rounded second-generation cars short of the final 2021-2023 refresh, and they still drive with the sharp, composed feel that sets the CX-9 apart from boxier rivals.

They rank just below the value-leading 2016-2018 cars because they cost meaningfully more for incremental improvements, and below the 2021-2023 Signature because of the older infotainment. A superb, low-risk family choice. It trades away the lower price of the 2016-2018 Touring but adds CarPlay and better sound insulation, which many daily drivers appreciate.

4. 2017-2018 CX-9 Signature (early flagship)

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

The first Signature trims arrived with the second generation and brought the Nappa leather, rosewood, and LED lighting that defined the CX-9 as a near-luxury product. Mechanically identical to other turbo cars with 227-250 horsepower and standard all-wheel drive, the early Signature is the cheapest way into the top trim's materials and equipment. Values run $20,000-$26,000.

For a buyer who specifically wants the plush flagship cabin on a budget, the early Signature is an excellent target. It trades away the newer infotainment and safety features of the 2019-2020 cars but offers the same Nappa leather and rosewood for less. Compared to the 2016-2018 Touring, it costs a few thousand more but adds the top-trim luxury appointments and standard AWD, making it the choice for those who prioritize the upscale interior over raw value.

5. 2016 CX-9 (second-gen, first year)

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

The first model year of the second generation is historically significant: it debuted the turbocharged four-cylinder that replaced the thirsty V6 and reset the CX-9 as a critical darling. With 227-250 horsepower and the new lightweight platform, the 2016 car drives like nothing in its predecessor's lineage. It is the cheapest second-generation CX-9 and a genuine bargain. Used prices are the lowest of the modern cars at $15,000-$20,000.

It ranks here because first-year cars carry a small risk of early-production quirks and lack the later infotainment and safety upgrades, but mechanically it is the same praised package. For a buyer prioritizing the turbo engine and driving feel at the absolute lowest second-gen price, 2016 is compelling. It trades away the CarPlay and improved sound deadening of the 2019-2020 cars, but saves thousands.

6. 2013-2015 CX-9 (first-gen, final)

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

The last of the first generation is the best version of the original CX-9. It used a 3.7-liter V6 making 273 horsepower and 270 lb-ft, more peak power than the turbo four but with much worse fuel economy (around 17 city / 24 highway mpg). By 2013 Mazda had updated the styling and infotainment, and these cars offer a roomy, comfortable three-row cabin and a strong 3,500-pound tow rating.

They rank here because the V6's thirst and the older platform's heavier, less engaging feel are clear downsides, but as a cheap, powerful, spacious family hauler the final first-gen cars are a legitimate budget choice. It trades away the turbo engine's efficiency and sharp handling of the 2016 cars, but offers more peak horsepower and a lower purchase price.

7. 2010-2012 CX-9 (first-gen, mid-cycle)

The mid-cycle first-generation cars received the larger 3.7-liter V6 (replacing the original 3.5-liter) making 273 horsepower, plus a styling refresh and improved equipment. They are roomy, comfortable, and capable of towing 3,500 pounds, and they remain among the more affordable used three-row SUVs available. Values sit around $7,000-$11,000.

The main caution is the V6's appetite for premium fuel and routine transmission service, but for a high-mileage family budget, a well-maintained example delivers a lot of space for little money. It trades away the updated interior and styling of the 2013-2015 cars but costs less. Compared to the 2007-2009 models below, it has the larger engine and a refreshed design, making it a more reliable and modern-feeling choice for budget buyers.

8. 2007-2009 CX-9 (first model years)

The original 2007-2009 CX-9 launched the nameplate with a 3.5-liter V6 (3.7-liter from 2008) and Ford-derived underpinnings shared with the Edge and MKX. It offered a then-class-leading interior, room for seven, and a 3,500-pound tow rating, and it earned strong safety ratings. These are now the cheapest CX-9s on the market. Values bottom out at $4,000-$8,000.

They rank near the bottom because of age, the V6's fuel thirst, and the need to scrutinize the transmission and front suspension on high-mileage cars, but for an extremely tight budget they remain a spacious, comfortable option. Buy strictly on condition and service history, and budget for deferred maintenance. It trades away the larger 3.7-liter engine of the 2010-2012 cars and their styling refresh, but offers the lowest entry price of any CX-9.

9. 2020 CX-9 Sport (base second-gen)

The base Sport trim of the refreshed second generation rounds out the strong modern options. It keeps the excellent 2.5-liter turbo engine and standard front- or all-wheel drive, but trims equipment to hit a lower price, with cloth or simpler upholstery and fewer luxury touches. Used prices run $20,000-$25,000.

Still, for a buyer who wants the newest possible turbo CX-9 on a budget and does not care about luxury appointments, the base Sport delivers the same superb drivetrain and chassis. It trades away the leather and power liftgate of the 2016-2018 Touring but gains the refreshed infotainment and CarPlay. Compared to the 2021-2023 Signature, it lacks the Nappa leather and premium tech, but it costs thousands less while offering the same engine and driving dynamics.

10. 2008 CX-9 Grand Touring (first-gen, loaded)

The loaded Grand Touring trim of the early first generation rounds out the list as a budget pick for buyers who want the most equipment for the least money. With the 3.7-liter V6 making 273 horsepower, leather, a sunroof, and available navigation, it was the flagship of its day. Values are very low at $5,000-$9,000.

For a buyer who needs maximum three-row space and features on a shoestring and can verify a clean maintenance history, a well-kept Grand Touring is a lot of car for the price, but go in expecting to invest in upkeep. It trades away the newer styling and reliability of the 2010-2012 cars but offers the most features for the lowest price.

How we ranked these

The ranking weighs reliability data, owner-reported issues, safety ratings, and real-world resale values across all CX-9 model years. It prioritizes the second-generation turbo engine's performance and efficiency, along with interior quality and driving dynamics, as these define the model's reputation. The 2021-2023 Signature scores highest for its refined features and tech, while the 2016-2018 Touring offers the best value.

Deliberately ignored were subjective brand loyalty, dealer incentives, and minor trim variations that don't affect core reliability. Also excluded were anecdotal single-owner complaints without statistical backing, and aftermarket modifications that alter the vehicle's baseline. The focus remains on factory specifications and widely reported trends, ensuring the ranking is useful for the average used-car buyer.

FAQ

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

Which Mazda CX-9 year offers the best value?

Are first-generation Mazda CX-9s reliable?

What is the towing capacity of the Mazda CX-9?

How does the CX-9 compare to the newer CX-90?

What common problems should I look for in used CX-9s?

What is the fuel economy of the second-generation CX-9?

The turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder in the 2016-2023 CX-9 achieves an EPA-estimated 22-24 mpg combined, depending on drivetrain and trim. This is a significant improvement over the first-generation V6, which averaged around 17-20 mpg, making the newer models more efficient for daily driving.

Which CX-9 trims come with all-wheel drive?

All second-generation CX-9s (2016-2023) offer i-Activ all-wheel drive as an option on most trims, and it is standard on the Signature and Grand Touring trims. First-generation models also had AWD available, but it was not standard on any trim. For all-weather capability, prioritize AWD-equipped examples.

What is the difference between the 2016 and 2017 CX-9?

The 2017 CX-9 is essentially unchanged from the 2016 model, which was the first year of the second generation. Both share the same turbo engine, chassis, and interior. The 2017 model may have minor software updates, but there are no significant mechanical differences, so the 2016 is often a better value.

Is the Mazda CX-9 good for tall drivers?

Yes, the CX-9 offers generous headroom and legroom in the first two rows, and the driver's seat has a wide range of adjustment. The third row is best for children or smaller adults, but the front seats are comfortable for taller occupants. The driving position is also well-designed for visibility.

Sources

flowchart TD S["Best best mazda cx-9 model years ranked"] S --> R0["1. 2021-2023 CX-9 Signature"] S --> R1["2. 2016-2018 CX-9 Touring"] S --> R2["3. 2019-2020 CX-9 second-gen, refresh"] S --> R3["4. 2017-2018 CX-9 Signature early fla"] S --> R4["5. 2016 CX-9 second-gen, first year"]

flowchart LR A["Choosing best mazda cx-9 model years ranked"] --> B{"Budget first?"} B -->|"No"| C["2021-2023 CX-9 Signature"] B -->|"Yes"| D{"Need every feature?"} D -->|"Yes"| E["2017-2018 CX-9 Signature early fla"] D -->|"No"| F["2008 CX-9 Grand Touring first-gen,"]

Related on PULSE

[More best mazda cx-9 model years (ranked) rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
[PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
[Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

Download:

## Direct Answer

The 10 best best mazda cx-9 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. 2021-2023 CX-9 Signature

![Best Mazda CX-9 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 1](/assets/qa/ca0530-b1.jpg)


The final second-generation Signature cars are the best three-row Mazda ever built before the CX-90. The 2.5-liter turbocharged SkyActiv-G makes 250 horsepower on 93-octane (227 on regular) and a muscular 320 lb-ft of torque from just 2,000 rpm, giving relaxed, torque-rich acceleration with a full family aboard.

Expect $30,000-$38,000 for a clean Signature, and it is worth it because nothing else in the class drives this well while feeling this luxurious. It trades away the lower price of earlier cars but buys the newest tech and the most refined cabin. Compared to the 2016-2018 Touring below, it costs thousands more for the same engine, but the interior and infotainment upgrades justify the premium for buyers who want the definitive CX-9 experience.

## 2. 2016-2018 CX-9 Touring

![Best Mazda CX-9 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 2](/assets/qa/ca0530-b2.jpg)


The launch years of the second generation are the value play, and the Touring trim is the sweet spot. These cars introduced the 2.5-liter turbo (then rated at 227 horsepower on regular fuel, 250 on premium) and the dramatically improved chassis, interior quality, and quietness that won the CX-9 universal critical praise. The Touring adds leather, a power liftgate, and blind-spot monitoring without the Signature's price.

Clean examples run $17,000-$23,000, which is a remarkable amount of three-row SUV for the money. That price-to-quality ratio makes it the clear best value in the range. It trades away the newer 10.25-inch screen and refreshed styling of the 2021-2023 Signature, but for most families the savings outweigh those refinements.

## 3. 2019-2020 CX-9 (second-gen, refreshed)

![Best Mazda CX-9 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 3](/assets/qa/ca0530-b3.jpg)


The mid-cycle 2019-2020 cars refined an already-excellent package. Mazda improved sound deadening, added Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, upgraded interior materials, and made more safety equipment standard, all paired with the same strong 2.5-liter turbo making 227-250 horsepower. These are the most rounded second-generation cars short of the final 2021-2023 refresh, and they still drive with the sharp, composed feel that sets the CX-9 apart from boxier rivals.

They rank just below the value-leading 2016-2018 cars because they cost meaningfully more for incremental improvements, and below the 2021-2023 Signature because of the older infotainment. A superb, low-risk family choice. It trades away the lower price of the 2016-2018 Touring but adds CarPlay and better sound insulation, which many daily drivers appreciate.

## 4. 2017-2018 CX-9 Signature (early flagship)

![Best Mazda CX-9 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 4](/assets/qa/ca0530-b4.jpg)


The first Signature trims arrived with the second generation and brought the Nappa leather, rosewood, and LED lighting that defined the CX-9 as a near-luxury product. Mechanically identical to other turbo cars with 227-250 horsepower and standard all-wheel drive, the early Signature is the cheapest way into the top trim's materials and equipment. Values run $20,000-$26,000.

For a buyer who specifically wants the plush flagship cabin on a budget, the early Signature is an excellent target. It trades away the newer infotainment and safety features of the 2019-2020 cars but offers the same Nappa leather and rosewood for less. Compared to the 2016-2018 Touring, it costs a few thousand more but adds the top-trim luxury appointments and standard AWD, making it the choice for those who prioritize the upscale interior over raw value.

## 5. 2016 CX-9 (second-gen, first year)

![Best Mazda CX-9 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 5](/assets/qa/ca0530-b5.jpg)


The first model year of the second generation is historically significant: it debuted the turbocharged four-cylinder that replaced the thirsty V6 and reset the CX-9 as a critical darling. With 227-250 horsepower and the new lightweight platform, the 2016 car drives like nothing in its predecessor's lineage. It is the cheapest second-generation CX-9 and a genuine bargain. Used prices are the lowest of the modern cars at $15,000-$20,000.

It ranks here because first-year cars carry a small risk of early-production quirks and lack the later infotainment and safety upgrades, but mechanically it is the same praised package. For a buyer prioritizing the turbo engine and driving feel at the absolute lowest second-gen price, 2016 is compelling. It trades away the CarPlay and improved sound deadening of the 2019-2020 cars, but saves thousands.

## 6. 2013-2015 CX-9 (first-gen, final)

![Best Mazda CX-9 Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 6](/assets/qa/ca0530-b6.jpg)


The last of the first generation is the best version of the original CX-9. It used a 3.7-liter V6 making 273 horsepower and 270 lb-ft, more peak power than the turbo four but with much worse fuel economy (around 17 city / 24 highway mpg). By 2013 Mazda had updated the styling and infotainment, and these cars offer a roomy, comfortable three-row cabin and a strong 3,500-pound tow rating.

They rank here because the V6's thirst and the older platform's heavier, less engaging feel are clear downsides, but as a cheap, powerful, spacious family hauler the final first-gen cars are a legitimate budget choice. It trades away the turbo engine's efficiency and sharp handling of the 2016 cars, but offers more peak horsepower and a lower purchase price.

## 7. 2010-2012 CX-9 (first-gen, mid-cycle)

The mid-cycle first-generation cars received the larger 3.7-liter V6 (replacing the original 3.5-liter) making 273 horsepower, plus a styling refresh and improved equipment. They are roomy, comfortable, and capable of towing 3,500 pounds, and they remain among the more affordable used three-row SUVs available. Values sit around $7,000-$11,000.

The main caution is the V6's appetite for premium fuel and routine transmission service, but for a high-mileage family budget, a well-maintained example delivers a lot of space for little money. It trades away the updated interior and styling of the 2013-2015 cars but costs less. Compared to the 2007-2009 models below, it has the larger engine and a refreshed design, making it a more reliable and modern-feeling choice for budget buyers.

## 8. 2007-2009 CX-9 (first model years)

The original 2007-2009 CX-9 launched the nameplate with a 3.5-liter V6 (3.7-liter from 2008) and Ford-derived underpinnings shared with the Edge and MKX. It offered a then-class-leading interior, room for seven, and a 3,500-pound tow rating, and it earned strong safety ratings. These are now the cheapest CX-9s on the market. Values bottom out at $4,000-$8,000.

They rank near the bottom because of age, the V6's fuel thirst, and the need to scrutinize the transmission and front suspension on high-mileage cars, but for an extremely tight budget they remain a spacious, comfortable option. Buy strictly on condition and service history, and budget for deferred maintenance. It trades away the larger 3.7-liter engine of the 2010-2012 cars and their styling refresh, but offers the lowest entry price of any CX-9.

## 9. 2020 CX-9 Sport (base second-gen)

The base Sport trim of the refreshed second generation rounds out the strong modern options. It keeps the excellent 2.5-liter turbo engine and standard front- or all-wheel drive, but trims equipment to hit a lower price, with cloth or simpler upholstery and fewer luxury touches. Used prices run $20,000-$25,000.

Still, for a buyer who wants the newest possible turbo CX-9 on a budget and does not care about luxury appointments, the base Sport delivers the same superb drivetrain and chassis. It trades away the leather and power liftgate of the 2016-2018 Touring but gains the refreshed infotainment and CarPlay. Compared to the 2021-2023 Signature, it lacks the Nappa leather and premium tech, but it costs thousands less while offering the same engine and driving dynamics.

## 10. 2008 CX-9 Grand Touring (first-gen, loaded)

The loaded Grand Touring trim of the early first generation rounds out the list as a budget pick for buyers who want the most equipment for the least money. With the 3.7-liter V6 making 273 horsepower, leather, a sunroof, and available navigation, it was the flagship of its day. Values are very low at $5,000-$9,000.

For a buyer who needs maximum three-row space and features on a shoestring and can verify a clean maintenance history, a well-kept Grand Touring is a lot of car for the price, but go in expecting to invest in upkeep. It trades away the newer styling and reliability of the 2010-2012 cars but offers the most features for the lowest price.

## How we ranked these

The ranking weighs reliability data, owner-reported issues, safety ratings, and real-world resale values across all CX-9 model years. It prioritizes the second-generation turbo engine's performance and efficiency, along with interior quality and driving dynamics, as these define the model's reputation. The 2021-2023 Signature scores highest for its refined features and tech, while the 2016-2018 Touring offers the best value.

Deliberately ignored were subjective brand loyalty, dealer incentives, and minor trim variations that don't affect core reliability. Also excluded were anecdotal single-owner complaints without statistical backing, and aftermarket modifications that alter the vehicle's baseline. The focus remains on factory specifications and widely reported trends, ensuring the ranking is useful for the average used-car buyer.

```mermaid
flowchart TD
  S["Best best mazda cx-9 model years ranked"]
  S --> R0["1. 2021-2023 CX-9 Signature"]
  S --> R1["2. 2016-2018 CX-9 Touring"]
  S --> R2["3. 2019-2020 CX-9 second-gen, refresh"]
  S --> R3["4. 2017-2018 CX-9 Signature early fla"]
  S --> R4["5. 2016 CX-9 second-gen, first year"]
```

## Related questions

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

The 2021-2023 second-generation Signature is the top pick, offering the most refined version of the turbocharged 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G engine with up to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. It includes premium features like Nappa leather, standard i-Activ all-wheel drive, and the best infotainment and safety tech of the lineup.

### Which Mazda CX-9 year offers the best value?

The 2016-2018 second-generation Touring models provide the same excellent turbo engine and driving dynamics as newer years but at a lower price. Clean examples typically sell in the $17,000 to $23,000 range, making them a smart buy for budget-conscious families.

### Are first-generation Mazda CX-9s reliable?

First-generation models (2007-2015) are generally reliable, especially the 2012-2015 facelift years, which improved on earlier issues. They use a Ford-derived V6 engine that is durable, but some early years had transmission and cooling system concerns that are worth checking.

### What is the towing capacity of the Mazda CX-9?

The second-generation CX-9 (2016-2023) can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped, which is typical for a mid-size SUV. First-generation models vary slightly but generally offer similar towing capability in the 3,000-3,500 pound range.

### How does the CX-9 compare to the newer CX-90?

The CX-90 replaced the CX-9 for 2024, offering a new inline-six engine and more modern tech. However, the CX-9 remains a strong used choice with a proven turbo engine and upscale interior, often at a lower price point than the newer model.

### What common problems should I look for in used CX-9s?

On second-generation models, watch for issues with the infotainment screen delamination and occasional turbocharger concerns. First-generation cars may have transmission shudder or cooling system leaks, especially in earlier years like 2007-2010.

## FAQ

**What is the best Mazda CX-9 model year overall?**

The 2021-2023 second-generation Signature is the top pick, offering the most refined version of the turbocharged 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G engine with up to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. It includes premium features like Nappa leather, standard i-Activ all-wheel drive, and the best infotainment and safety tech of the lineup.

**Which Mazda CX-9 year offers the best value?**

The 2016-2018 second-generation Touring models provide the same excellent turbo engine and driving dynamics as newer years but at a lower price. Clean examples typically sell in the $17,000 to $23,000 range, making them a smart buy for budget-conscious families.

**Are first-generation Mazda CX-9s reliable?**

First-generation models (2007-2015) are generally reliable, especially the 2012-2015 facelift years, which improved on earlier issues. They use a Ford-derived V6 engine that is durable, but some early years had transmission and cooling system concerns that are worth checking.

**What is the towing capacity of the Mazda CX-9?**

The second-generation CX-9 (2016-2023) can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped, which is typical for a mid-size SUV. First-generation models vary slightly but generally offer similar towing capability in the 3,000-3,500 pound range.

**How does the CX-9 compare to the newer CX-90?**

The CX-90 replaced the CX-9 for 2024, offering a new inline-six engine and more modern tech. However, the CX-9 remains a strong used choice with a proven turbo engine and upscale interior, often at a lower price point than the newer model.

**What common problems should I look for in used CX-9s?**

On second-generation models, watch for issues with the infotainment screen delamination and occasional turbocharger concerns. First-generation cars may have transmission shudder or cooling system leaks, especially in earlier years like 2007-2010.

**What is the fuel economy of the second-generation CX-9?**

The turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder in the 2016-2023 CX-9 achieves an EPA-estimated 22-24 mpg combined, depending on drivetrain and trim. This is a significant improvement over the first-generation V6, which averaged around 17-20 mpg, making the newer models more efficient for daily driving.

**Which CX-9 trims come with all-wheel drive?**

All second-generation CX-9s (2016-2023) offer i-Activ all-wheel drive as an option on most trims, and it is standard on the Signature and Grand Touring trims. First-generation models also had AWD available, but it was not standard on any trim. For all-weather capability, prioritize AWD-equipped examples.

**What is the difference between the 2016 and 2017 CX-9?**

The 2017 CX-9 is essentially unchanged from the 2016 model, which was the first year of the second generation. Both share the same turbo engine, chassis, and interior. The 2017 model may have minor software updates, but there are no significant mechanical differences, so the 2016 is often a better value.

**Is the Mazda CX-9 good for tall drivers?**

Yes, the CX-9 offers generous headroom and legroom in the first two rows, and the driver's seat has a wide range of adjustment. The third row is best for children or smaller adults, but the front seats are comfortable for taller occupants. The driving position is also well-designed for visibility.

```mermaid
flowchart LR
  A["Choosing best mazda cx-9 model years ranked"] --> B{"Budget first?"}
  B -->|"No"| C["2021-2023 CX-9 Signature"]
  B -->|"Yes"| D{"Need every feature?"}
  D -->|"Yes"| E["2017-2018 CX-9 Signature early fla"]
  D -->|"No"| F["2008 CX-9 Grand Touring first-gen,"]
```

## Sources

- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mazda_CX-9
- https://www.mazdausa.com/vehicles/cx-9
- https://www.caranddriver.com/mazda/cx-9
- https://www.edmunds.com/mazda/cx-9/
- https://www.kbb.com/mazda/cx-9/
- https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mazda/cx-9/
- https://www.motortrend.com/cars/mazda/cx-9/

## Related on PULSE

- [More best mazda cx-9 model years (ranked) rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
- [PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
- [Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

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

1. 2021-2023 CX-9 Signature

2. 2016-2018 CX-9 Touring

3. 2019-2020 CX-9 (second-gen, refreshed)

4. 2017-2018 CX-9 Signature (early flagship)

5. 2016 CX-9 (second-gen, first year)

6. 2013-2015 CX-9 (first-gen, final)

7. 2010-2012 CX-9 (first-gen, mid-cycle)

8. 2007-2009 CX-9 (first model years)

9. 2020 CX-9 Sport (base second-gen)

10. 2008 CX-9 Grand Touring (first-gen, loaded)

How we ranked these

Related questions

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

Which Mazda CX-9 year offers the best value?

Are first-generation Mazda CX-9s reliable?

What is the towing capacity of the Mazda CX-9?

How does the CX-9 compare to the newer CX-90?

What common problems should I look for in used CX-9s?

FAQ

Sources

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