Asserting the discontinuation of a long-standing mannequin, Mazda has formally determined to half methods with the CX-9. The 2023 mannequin yr would be the final for what had been Mazda’s largest SUV.

That is no shock. Mazda has chosen to give attention to its newest mannequin and the CX-9’s de facto substitute, the 2024 CX-90, launched this previous spring. The CX-90 is a midsize 3-row SUV that may seat as much as eight passengers — one higher than the CX-9. The CX-90 has a beginning worth of $39,595, solely barely above the CX-9 at $38,750. Whereas the CX-9 can be a 3-row midsize SUV and has an identical title because the CX-90, there are key variations between the fashions, together with what powers them. 

Whereas the CX-9 affords only one powertrain — a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that makes as much as 250 horsepower — the CX-90 has a alternative of three. Base CX-90 fashions tout a turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine that’s each extra highly effective and extra environment friendly than the 4-cylinder within the CX-9. The bottom 6-cylinder makes 280 horsepower and earns a mixed 25 mpg, vs. the 23 mpg score of the CX-9. A better-powered model of that very same engine makes 340 horsepower but nonetheless earns a mixed 25 mpg.

Lastly, the CX-90 is on the market as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) that mixes a 4-cylinder engine and an electrical motor. It makes a complete of 323 horsepower and may journey as much as 26 miles on battery energy alone. Just like the CX-9, all CX-90 fashions come commonplace with all-wheel drive.

Regardless of Mazda bidding adieu to the CX-9, vendor tons will proceed to hold the automobiles till they’re bought out. That makes now a superb time to contemplate negotiating for a CX-9 in case you’ve had your eye on one. 

The CX-9 debuted for the 2007 mannequin yr and entered its second era for 2016. It has lengthy been regarded for its standout athletic manners — a trait not typically present in household haulers.