If you’re wondering “What exactly is a Mazda CX-9 — and is it a good used SUV today?” let’s start with the simple answer.
The Mazda CX-9 is a three-row, 7-seater midsize SUV powered by a strong 3.7-litre V6 engine and a smooth 6-speed automatic transmission. It’s known for its roomy interior, confident towing capacity, and one of the most enjoyable driving feels among family SUVs.
And in this guide, I’m not just listing specs — I’m taking you through everything you truly need to know before you buy one.
From technical fiche details to gas mileage, towing capacity, engine configurations, oil requirements, real used prices, and even where to find a used Mazda CX-9 near you in the USA, Canada, the UK, and Australia…
You’re about to get every answer your mind is burning for — explained clearly, honestly, and with the experience of someone who has worked on these vehicles for 17 years.
Let’s dive into each model year from 2009 to 2012 so you can choose the smartest option for your budget.
Table of Contents
2009 Mazda CX-9 Review — Technical Fiche, Engine Specs, Gas Mileage, Towing, Interior & Real Costs
Think of the 2009 model as the established veteran. All the core strengths are here, and with the right care, it’s a fantastic value.
- Under the Hood (Engine & Specs): It’s powered by Mazda’s workhorse 3.7L V6, making a smooth 273 hp and paired with a 6-speed automatic. The configurations were simple: Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive across Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring trims.
- The Fuel Reality (Gas Mileage): Let’s be honest: you don’t buy a V6 from this era for sipping fuel. Expect a real-world average of 17-18 MPG combined. On the highway, you might see 21-22 MPG if you’re gentle.
- What It Can Pull (Towing Capacity): Properly equipped with the tow package, it’s rated for 3,500 lbs. That’s enough for a loaded utility trailer or a small boat. My tip: If you’re buying from an owner who towed, listen for transmission whines and insist on seeing service records for fluid changes.
- Inside Story (Interior): This is where the CX-9 shined. The materials felt a cut above rivals like the Honda Pilot. The third row is for kids, but the cargo space is generous. The dash design is dated now, but it’s solid and well-built.
- Critical Maintenance Info (Oil Capacity & Type):
- Oil Capacity: 5.5 quarts (with filter).
- Oil Type: Use 5W-20. Full stop. I’ve seen timing chain tensioner issues on engines where someone got lazy and used 5W-30. For longevity, I always use a high-quality full synthetic.
- The Bottom Line (Cost & Where to Buy): Price is all about condition. As I write this, here’s what a clean, mid-mileage example looks like:
- USA: $6,500 – $9,500 from a dealer. A private sale might be $1,000 less.
- Canada: $8,000 – $12,000 CAD.
- UK: (Less common) £7,500 – £10,500.
- Australia: AUD $11,000 – $16,000.
Start your search on mainstream sites like AutoTrader and Cars.com, but don’t sleep on Facebook Marketplace for a private deal—just get an inspection.
From the Garage:
On 2009 models, listen for front suspension clunks during low-speed bumps. Struts and bushings are often worn by this age.
Okay, so 2009 sets the stage. For 2010, Mazda gave it a subtle but meaningful facelift. Let’s see what changed.
2010 Mazda CX-9 — Updated Design, Configurations, Towing Capacity, MPG, Oil Requirements & Pricing
The 2010 model is essentially a mechanical twin to the 2009, but with a wardrobe update and some interior tweaks.
- Technical Fiche Notes: The engine, transmission, towing capacity (3,500 lbs), and fuel economy are identical. The oil type and capacity remain 5W-20 and 5.5 quarts. The core specifications didn’t shift.
- The Real Upgrade (Interior & Exterior): The front grille and bumper got a more aggressive, modern look. Inside, the center stack was redesigned—buttons felt better, the layout was cleaner. It’s the same great space, just polished.
- Why Consider a 2010? It often costs only a few hundred dollars more than an identical 2009. You get the same proven mechanicals with a slightly fresher face and interior. It’s a no-brainer if prices are close.
- Pro Tip from the Garage: This generation, especially AWD models, has a critical component called the PTU (Power Transfer Unit). It’s the #1 hidden killer. Most owners never changed their fluid. If the service records don’t mention it, budget for an immediate change and inspection. A $300 service can prevent a $3,000 repair.
While 2010 was a style update, the 2011 model is where many experts, myself included, start getting really enthusiastic. Here’s why.
2011 Mazda CX-9 — Reliability Sweet Spot: Engine, Fuel Efficiency, Configurations, Interior & Market Price
The 2011 CX-9 is often hailed as the reliability sweet spot. The early kinks were worked out, and it represents the first gen at its most mature.
- Powertrain Perfection: Same superb 3.7L V6 and 6-speed combo. By this year, any minor transmission programming quirks from earlier years were resolved. It’s just a smooth, confident powertrain.
- Fuel Efficiency Check (Gas Mileage): Don’t expect miracles, but careful maintenance can help it achieve its best possible MPG. A clean air filter, proper tire pressure, and fresh spark plugs make a noticeable difference.
- Configuration & Specs: You now had more advanced features available, like Blind-Spot Monitoring on higher trims. The configurations (FWD/AWD, the three trims) offered the most features for a first-gen model.
- The Inspection Shortlist: When you look at a 2011, beyond the usual used car checks, make the PTU fluid and transmission fluid history your deal-breakers. A well-maintained 2011 is a 200,000-mile SUV. A neglected one is a money pit.
- Value Proposition (Cost): You pay a small premium for its sterling reputation.
- USA: $8,500 – $13,000
- Canada: $10,500 – $15,500 CAD
- UK: £9,000 – £13,000
- Australia: AUD $14,500 – $19,500
A Mazda Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) 2011 is a fantastic find here, adding a warranty.
From My Experience:
Test drive the car uphill.
If the transmission hesitates around 2nd–3rd gear, walk away. These symptoms show up early in abused units.
The first generation bowed out with the 2012 model. It’s the final, most evolved version of the breed we’ve been talking about.
2012 Mazda CX-9 — Final First-Gen Model: Full Specifications, Advantages, Towing, Oil Type & Real Costs
The 2012 is the last hurrah of the V6 CX-9. It’s the one to buy if your budget allows, as it benefits from all the refinements and is often the best-preserved.
- Specifications & Engine: No surprises. The trusted 3.7L V6 and 6-speed carry over. Towing capacity remains a useful 3,500 lbs. All the technical advantages—the car-like handling, the robust engine, the versatile interior—are present and correct.
- Living With It (Interior & Gas Mileage): The cabin is quiet, comfortable, and feels built to last. The entertainment tech is obsolete, but that’s what phone mounts are for. Gas mileage is what it is; budget for it and enjoy the power.
- The Non-Negotiable Maintenance: I can’t stress this enough. Before buying any 2012 (or any of these, really), have your mechanic specifically check:
- PTU fluid condition (AWD models).
- Transmission fluid color and smell.
- Condition of the engine and transmission mounts.
- Final Year Pricing (Cost & Where to Buy): As the newest, it commands the highest price in this range.
- USA: $10,000 – $16,000
- Canada: $12,500 – $18,000 CAD
- UK: £10,500 – £15,500
- Australia: AUD $17,000 – $23,000
Where to buy? Expand beyond local listings. Sometimes, a one-owner car with perfect records is worth a short road trip. Use national search tools on dealer websites.
Expert Advice:
2012 examples often have the most complete service histories, which drastically improves long-term reliability.
If you find one with timing chain inspection records, grab it.
2009–2012 Mazda CX-9 Comparison: Best Year to Buy for Value, Reliability & Maintenance Cost
| Year | Best if you want… |
|---|---|
| 2009 | Proven baseline: solid V6, 7 seats, good features — often lowest price on used market if you find one in good condition. |
| 2010 | Minimal changes but similar reliability — ideal if you want a slightly newer vehicle but cost still low. |
| 2011 | Comfort balance: still decent value, with similar specs, and maybe slightly better fuel economy depending on trim. |
| 2012 | Last of first generation — stable specs, possibly better-maintained examples, potentially highest resale segment among 2009–12. |
My personal take (as an electromechanic): if you find a 2012 with full maintenance history, moderate mileage, and no abuse, that’s likely the smart “sweet spot” between cost, reliability, and long-term usability. 2009–2010 remain interesting, if the budget is tight, but check the oil history suspension, and any towing history carefully.
Used Mazda CX-9 FAQs
Is a Mazda CX-9 a good car to buy?
Yes, especially if you find a well-maintained example. CX-9 offers strong V6 performance, 7-seat capacity, towing capability, and reasonable comfort. If your priorities are space, utility, and value, and you accept some fuel cost and older features. It’s often a good used SUV. My recommendation: prefer 2011 or 2012 with a solid maintenance history.
What year of CX-9 should I avoid?
Avoid any year with poor maintenance, regardless of the badge. However, the very early 2007-2008 models had more reported issues (like transmission solenoids). The 2009-2012 years are vastly more solid. Focus on history, not just a model year.
Do Mazda CX-9s have transmission problems?
No widespread transmission “epidemic” documented for first-gen CX-9s, but as with any older automatic SUV: if oil changes and maintenance were neglected, there is increased risk. If you inspect carefully (fluid condition, no slips, good history), and avoid abused/towed-hard vehicles, the 6-speed automatic remains acceptable.
Final Thoughts — Is the Mazda CX-9 Worth Buying Used? (My Expert Advice)
If you’re hunting a used 2009–2012 Mazda CX-9, you’ll find options that offer space, power, towing, and practicality — often at a much lower cost than newer SUVs. The “sweet spot” in my view is 2011–2012: mechanically mature, well understood, with enough power and capacity to meet family or utility needs, and often still affordable.
If you’re thinking about buying a used Mazda CX-9 — or you want help choosing between 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012 — feel free to drop a comment or ask me anything.
I’m always here to help, whether it’s this SUV or ANY other car you want a full expert article about.