To help you avoid picking the worst Mazda CX-9 years, we’ve ranked all Mazda CX-9 models for every generation!
The purpose of this guide is to provide you with a comprehensive analysis of all Mazda CX-9 generations and provide you with the best and worst Mazda CX-9 years.
A holistic view of a vehicle’s history is provided by combining user reviews, official recalls, and performance data, using reliable sources such as NHTSA, Consumer Reports, and VehicleHistory.
Providing insight into common problems, owner complaints, and recalls with the Mazda CX-9, I’ll outline which years make the best choice for potential buyers and which models to avoid.
Come on, let’s get started!
Mazda CX-9 Generations
In 2007, Mazda introduced the CX-9 crossover, a family-friendly vehicle with a focus on driving pleasure.
As the first generation of the vehicle, it set the standard for practicality and performance in its class by offering a spacious three-row seating arrangement, a powerful V6 engine, and possible all-wheel drive.
In the table below, you can see all the generations of Mazda CX-9 between 2007 and 2023.
| Generation | Years |
| 1st generation (TB) | 2007-2015 |
| 2nd generation (TC) | 2016-2023 |
Potential buyers should take these generational divisions into account since each offers distinct advances and improvements that could greatly influence their purchasing decisions.
Mazda CX-9 Best, Neutral, and Worst Years
Our rankings and categorizations of the Mazda CX-9’s best and worst model years are based on a number of factors, including the following:
In our upcoming graph, you can see how Mazda CX-9 model years have combined their ratings.
Following that, we present a table that categorizes all Mazda CX-9 model years according to whether they are the best, neutral, or worst.
| Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
| 1st generation (TB) | 2007 2008 2013 2014 2015 | N/A | 2009 2010 2011 2012 |
| 2nd generation (TC) | 2018 2019 2020 2022 | 2021 2023 | 2016 2017 |
While neutral years may not have the same consistent high marks as best years, they are less likely to suffer from the pronounced problems that characterize worst years.
The reliability rating of a vehicle can be adversely affected by certain factors, like NHTSA recalls. There is a correlation between a car’s dependability and the number of complaints and recalls it has.
In this article, we will review the best, neutral, and worst years for Mazda CX-9.
Best & Worst Years for Mazda CX-9 1st Generation (2007-2015)
With the Mazda CX-9 1st Generation, Mazda aimed to combine the versatility of an SUV with the sports car liveliness of a sports car. The 2007 model was designed to offer a family-friendly ride while still providing a hint of Mazda’s famous ‘Zoom-Zoom’ driving exhilaration.
As far as overall reliability and price are concerned, 2007-2008 and 2013-2015 are the best Mazda CX-9 years, whereas 2009-2012 are the worst.
The Best Years: 2007, 2008, 2013, 2014, 2015
In 2007, 2008, 2013, 2014, and 2015, the first-generation Mazda CX-9 enjoyed high ratings for performance, comfort, and reliability.
With 3.5L MZI V6 engines in 2007 and 2008, Mazda CX-9s had a strong foundation for the model line to follow, followed by 3.7L MZI V6 engines from 2008 onwards, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that delivered smooth, responsive performance.
With its luxurious touches and advanced technology, the Grand Touring variant stood out for its luxurious trim as well as its safety features, including roll stability control and blind-spot monitoring.
Featuring redesigned interiors and updated infotainment options, the facelifted Mazda CX-9 models were enhanced by Mazda’s continuous improvement program.
As a result, used car buyers are better off buying these model years due to the lack of major mechanical issues as they did with their predecessors.
The Worst Years: 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012
The Mazda CX-9 years 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012 should be avoided due to a variety of reliability concerns.
During this period, Mazda CX-9 models were plagued by brake problems, particularly in 2009.
Mazda struggled to rectify widespread brake failures for the 2010-2012 Mazda CX-9 models due to a faulty power transfer unit design.
It was also important to keep an eye out for water pump failures, as they could result in engine stalling and considerable internal damage.
There have been numerous recalls related to corrosion in the ball joints of the front suspension.
For recalls and complaints regarding Mazda CX-9 in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, please see the NHTSA’s website.
Best & Worst Years for Mazda CX-9 2nd Generation (2016-2023)
For the second-generation Mazda CX-9, which was introduced in 2016, there has been a significant leap forward in design, performance, and technology.
Among this generation’s Mazda CX, 2016 and 2017 should be avoided at all costs, whereas 2018-2022 are the best years.
The Best Years: 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022
As Mazda continues to refine its design and engineering, some of the second generation Mazda CX-9 models from 2018 to 2020 and 2022 are considered the best.
With a 2.5L Skyactiv-G PY-VPTS turbocharged four-cylinder engine, paired with a six-speed Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission, these models offer an engaging driving experience with up to 250 horsepower.
A 4WD-equipped Mazda CX-9 from 2022 maintains the performance standard while delivering improved fuel economy of around 20 city/26 highway mpg.
A number of safety technologies were introduced during this time period, including blind-spot monitoring and automated emergency braking.
It has been reported that some Mazda CX-9 owners have experienced coolant leaks during the 2018 and 2019 model years.
The Neutral Years: 2021, 2023
In terms of the Mazda CX-9, the years 2021 and 2023 represent the neutral years for the second generation, offering a balance between the teething problems of the first release and the fully matured models of the best years.
There was a gradual upgrade of safety and convenience features introduced in these iterations, including improvements to the driver assistance suite and an upgrade to the infotainment system. The 2.5L turbocharged engine remained the same in these iterations.
In spite of the lack of groundbreaking improvements or breakthrough changes over the best years, these models haven’t suffered from major reliability issues, making them a good choice for those who want recent-year models without paying a premium for the latest models.
The Worst Years: 2016, 2017
It is recommended that you avoid buying the Mazda CX-9 2016 and 2017 models from the second generation, which had a few challenges.
These models exhibited engine problems early on in the second generation, including cracked cylinder heads that caused coolant leaks, causing overheating and damaging the engine.
Here is a list of Mazda CX-9 recalls and complaints from 2016, 2017, and 2018.
Best & Worst Mazda 3 Years
Best & Worst Mazda CX-5 Years | Years To Avoid
Conclusion
With the Mazda CX-9’s history behind us, we can now clearly see that the best years for the Mazda CX-9 are 2018-2020 and 2022, while the 2016 and 2017 models are to be avoided.
Your Mazda CX-9 was purchased in what year, and what factors influenced your choice?
We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!