2009 Mazda CX-9

Besides creating a great-looking crossover with real seven-passenger seating, Mazda engineers gave the CX-9 a lively V-6 engine, a likable six-speed automatic transmission, and a sport-tuned four-wheel independent suspension system. All of this goes a long way to making the movement of many passengers a lot more fun.

Mazda's seven-passenger CX-9 proves that large crossover SUVs with three rows of seating can be almost as much fun-to-drive as a sporty sedan.

No, I'm not going to attempt to tell you that the CX-9 is as agile as a finely-made sport sedan. It's not. But I will tell you that for being a roomy people-mover, the CX-9 is a joy to drive.

That's because Mazda engineers gave the CX-9 a lively V-6 engine, a likable 6-speed automatic transmission, and a sport-tuned four-wheel independent suspension system.

Powering the CX-9 is a 3.7-liter V-6 engine that makes 273 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. The CX-9's 6-speed automatic transmission provides effortless shifts and a manual-shift mode is standard on all trim levels.

Any of CX-9's three trim levels can be had with either FWD or AWD. The AWD models feature Mazda's Active Torque Split All-Wheel Drive system.

This AWD system normally sends all power to the front wheels, but during aggressive acceleration, or when one front wheel is on the verge of slip, up to 50 percent of the available torque can be directed to the rear axle.

Whether you choose a FWD or AWD CX-9, Dynamic Stability Control, a Traction Control System, and Roll Stability Control come standard across the board.

The CX-9 is a smart-looking crossover with an athletic stance. Large 18-inch wheels come standard on both the Sport trim ($30,490) and the uplevel Touring trim ($32,385). Stepping up to the top-of-the-line Grand Touring trim ($34,475) level nets you 20-inch wheels and much more.

All models feature a sporty theme thanks to a standard roof spoiler, LED taillights, and dual stainless exhaust outlets. I was surprised to learn that a roof rack is optional, even for the Grand Touring model.

All models include air conditioning, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry, trip computer, cruise control and six air bags.

Stepping up to the Touring model gets you leather upholstery and power front seats.

The Grand Touring adds larger wheels, rain-sensing wipers, anti-theft alarm, exterior mirrors with turn indicators, a three-position memory seat, Blind Spot Monitoring system, Homelink auto-dimming rearview mirror, Mazda's Advanced Keyless Entry and Start System, wood instrument panel, indirect blue interior lighting, and more.

I especially liked the Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system in my Grand Touring AWD tester. The BSM monitors areas on both sides of the vehicle to the rear when vehicle speed is about 20 mph or greater. It notifies the driver when vehicles are in your blind spot by illuminating a warning light located in the outside mirror. If the driver uses the turn signal and a vehicle is in your blind spot, the light flashes and a warning beep audibly alerts the driver.

I also like Mazda's Advanced Keyless system that comes standard in the Grand Touring model. It's extremely convenient not having to fumble for a key when your hands are full. It's also great not having to dig for the key or look for the key cylinder when starting the engine.

The CX-9's second and third rows don't have enough leg room for my tall frame, but average sized adults will find adequate room in either row.

The large rear doors make accessing the third row a bit easier than other seven-passenger crossovers. But because the doors are large, you may find some difficulty getting in/out if parked alongside other large vehicles.

As is the case with most crossover SUVs, there's not much cargo room when the third-row seats are in use. But fold them down and you'll have plenty of room for your goodies. CX-9 easily gobbles up larger items, too, when the second row-seats are folded down.

2009 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring AWD

Engine: 3.7-liter (273 hp) V-6

Transmission: 6-speed automatic

Drive type: AWD

Fuel economy: 15 city/21 highway

Base price: $35,205

As tested: $40,135 (including $670 for destination)

Web site: www.mazdausa.com