Mazda’s 2023 CX-9 Carbon Edition is a fitting tribute to the brand’s commitment to redefining the landscape of midsize SUVs. The CX-9 carved out a distinctive space for itself in a crowded segment through its potent blend of style, comfort, and energetic performance. Engineered as a three-row, seven-passenger SUV, the CX-9 Carbon Edition masterfully balances practicality and performance.
While it won’t toss you back in your seat like a sports car, the CX-9 Carbon Edition does bring a nimble, lively driving experience to the table that sets the bar in its class. It’s this embodiment of Mazda’s philosophy of unity between car and driver that has kept the CX-9 in a league of its own. It’s not just a mere family hauler; it’s a vehicle that encourages you to find joy in the journey, transforming every drive into an engaging experience.
However, 2023 marks the end of an era for this much-admired SUV, as Mazda has announced it will be the last production year for the CX-9. But fear not, Mazda enthusiasts, the legacy continues in its successor, the recently introduced CX-90. Promising to carry forward the brand’s passion for dynamic driving and superior design, the CX-90 is poised to step into the sizable shoes of the CX-9, adding a new chapter to Mazda’s illustrious SUV history.
Masterful dynamics
The 2023 Mazda CX-9 Carbon Edition stands out in the midsize SUV segment with an unprecedented driving experience. Under its hood beats the heart of a tough 2. 5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, generating 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque when fed with premium 93-octane fuel. Combined with a capable 6-speed automatic transmission, power delivery is elegant and direct, which, combined with the popular all-wheel drive on all versions, ensures safety in a variety of driving conditions.
Mazda CX-9
The engine’s strength, however, is just the beginning of the CX-9 Carbon Edition’s charms. It shines when it comes to handling. Its crisp guidance is impressively accurate, allowing us to take corners with confidence. Meanwhile, the responsive chassis and complex suspension setup ensure minimal frame roll, giving the SUV a point of agility that is uncommon in this class. He also proves to be physically powerful. With offline functionality that’s oddly fast for a 4-cylinder SUV, the CX-9 can go from 0 to 60 in a respectable 7. 0 seconds, depending on the test car.
The cabin experience
Slipping inside the 2023 Mazda CX-9 Carbon Edition, I find myself cocooned in an environment that exudes a unique blend of style and comfort. The deep red leather seats command attention, offering a striking contrast to the aluminum interior trim. This vibrant palette is offset by black metallic accents on the dash, door panels, and handle bezels, creating an ambience that feels both luxurious and performance-inspired. This sense of refinement extends to the LED door pocket illumination, LED door pull handles, and overhead LED illumination, which subtly enhance the cabin’s visual appeal. Heated second-row captain’s chairs with armrests and center pass-through enhance passenger comfort.
From the driver’s seat, I appreciate the seven-inch multi-information LCD display that intuitively presents key driving information. The hands-free liftgate adds a point of convenience, while the adaptive front lighting formula improves visibility when driving at night.
The build quality is palpable, a confirmation of the meticulous craftsmanship that underpins every square inch of the cabin. It’s clear that Mazda understands the essence of a high-end vehicle.
The soul of motion design.
This SUV is a testament to Mazda’s “KODO: Soul of Motion” design philosophy, where every line and curve expresses dynamism and fluidity. Exclusive to the Carbon Edition, Polymetal Gray paint adds a degree of subtlety while drawing attention and capturing the soft, very smooth contours of the vehicle’s muscular profile.
Mazda CX-9
The overall design is athletic and elegant, embodying an ambitious presence that sets it apart in the busy SUV segment. From each and every angle, the 2023 Mazda CX-9 Carbon Edition is a sight to behold – a testament to the delicate balance between dynamic design and complicated aesthetics, making for a head-turning style in the segment.
Final thoughts
2023 marks the final year of the CX-9, giving way to the new CX-90. As I drive, enjoying the SUV’s handling, power, and overall driving experience, it’s easy to see why the CX-9 has earned such a reputation. Even if it doesn’t provide the same adrenaline rush as a sports car, the 2023 Mazda CX-9 Carbon Edition is the best-handling SUV in its class. It is a fitting tribute to a style that has left its mark on the industry, striking the best balance between utility, luxury and driving pleasure.
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