ALTHOUGH it was not the first time that this writer has ridden a Mazda vehicle, her encounter with the CX-9 was her first test-drive and the experience was unforgettable. The 2009 Mazda CX-9 is a large crossover SUV that looks like a high, sporty sedan. Although the vehicle received an engine upgrade last year, the CX-9 isn’t much different from when it debuted two model years ago. The design has a new body style that could have been based on the Mazda 6 but on SUV chassis using 10-spoke, 20-inch rims and twin exhausts that give the vehicle a sportier look.      

The CX-9 is so spacious it can easily sit seven people comfortably. For those who find themselves being cramped or pinned inside their sporty sedan and want to scream out to a roomier vehicle, the Mazda CX-9 is the answer.

The interior is first class and looks luxurious with a very attractive dashboard gauge cluster, full-power accessories, a tilting and telescoping steering wheel with audio and cruise control, a trip computer, Bluetooth phone connectivity, an auxiliary audio jack, rain-sensing wipers, keyless ignition/entry, memory driver seat presets, wood cabin accents, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, A/T gate, air-con and radio-control designs, which are very easy to operate.

Large second-row and third-row air conditioning vents are installed to keep all passengers cool. The CX-9 also boasts excellent build quality, as well as an adequate number of technology and entertainment features such as the CD player and Bose speakers. In terms of convenience, the CX-9 has 12 cupholders and large door storage bins. Both rear rows fold flat, and can accommodate two golf bags plus an assortment of gear and other items with lots of room to spare.

The CX-9 has an all-power sunroof, which adds to its sophistication and makes the car look really sexy. The true pleasure of the Mazda CX-9 lies in its superb handling capabilities. No vehicle this size can ever be called so lively. It is this writer’s humble opinion that, among large SUVs, Mazda’s flagship is the most enjoyable to drive, do-anything and everything in between. After driving it to Clark and Tarlac as well as around Metro Manila, it is obvious that this vehicle is well engineered for long road trips. Driven on curvy roads, however, the CX-9 really shows its mettle. The steering is precise and direct, although a tad on the light side. This high level of vehicle control is an advantage not only on back roads, but on confined city streets as well, thanks to the dynamic stability control with rollover sensor. Particularly noteworthy is its 5.7-meter turning radius, which is really great especially when taking the U-turn slots in the city. Parallel parking can be tough, however, as the sharp angle of the C-pillars results in a number of rearward blind spots.

The Mazda CX-9 is powered by a 3.7L V6 engine, which propels it to a maximum speed of 373 kph at 6,250 rpm.

The CX-9 is equipped with ABS, front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. In a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration test in the US, the CX-9 did very well, scoring five out of five stars in all front and side crash tests. Similarly, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the CX-9 its top rating of “Good” for both frontal-offset and side-impact crashworthiness.           

Thumbs up

* Overall design

* Excellent handling

* Great engine

* All-wheel drive

* Safety features

* Space—lots of it!

* Attractive and ergonomic dashboard

Thumbs down

* Blind spots in rear

* Fuel consumption

* Price

* No backup sensors

Specifications

* Vehicle Mazda CX-9 AWD

* Type Full-size Crossover SUV

* Engine type 3.7L DOHC 24-valve V6 gasoline, with variable valve timing, naturally aspirated

* Maximum power 373 hp at 6,250 rpm

* Maximum torque 366 Nm at 6,250 rpm

* Transmission Six-speed automatic (with Activematic manual mode) active torque split all-wheel drive

Dimensions

* Length 5,074 mm

* Width 1,936 mm

* Height 1,728 mm

* Wheelbase 2,875 mm

* Front track 1,654 mm

* Rear track 1,644 mm

* Wheel size 20 x 7.50 alloy

* Tires Bridgestone Dueler H/L 400 245/50R20 102V

* Price as tested P2.749 million

IN PHOTO -- A sportier crossover Mazda makes a point with its flagship SUV.