Vehicle Class:
The 2008 Mazda CX-9 was positioned as a family-friendly, three-row mid-size crossover SUV, competing in a segment with vehicles like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Ford Explorer.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder, Chevrolet Traverse.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasized Mazda's 'Zoom-Zoom' driving dynamics philosophy, aiming to provide a more engaging driving experience than many rivals in the crossover segment.
Interior Versatility:
Offered flexible seating for up to seven passengers with a standard third-row seat, designed for family utility.
Powertrain:
Featured a potent V6 engine as standard, providing ample power for hauling and merging.
Navigation Option:
The availability of a factory-installed navigation system was a key feature for families and individuals seeking integrated travel assistance.
Navigation Interface:
Detailed explanations of the infotainment system's navigation unit, including screen layouts and button functions.
Map Operation:
Instructions on how to view maps, change perspectives (2D/3D), and utilize different map views.
Destination Entry:
Comprehensive guidance on entering destinations via address, points of interest (POIs), previous destinations, and saved locations.
Route Planning:
Information on calculating routes, setting route preferences (e.g., fastest, shortest, avoid highways), and managing multiple destinations.
Guidance Features:
Explanation of turn-by-turn voice guidance, visual cues, lane assistance, and traffic information features (if equipped).
Points Of Interest:
Guidance on searching for and navigating to various POIs such as restaurants, gas stations, hospitals, and attractions.
Settings Customization:
Instructions on adjusting navigation settings, voice volume, map display preferences, and unit configurations.
Troubleshooting:
Basic troubleshooting steps for common navigation system issues, such as GPS signal loss or map display errors.
Initial Setup:
Steps for initial setup of the navigation system, including language and regional settings.
Software Updates:
Guidance on how to check for and install map data or software updates (if applicable and user-updatable).
Destination Saving:
Procedures for saving frequently visited locations or creating custom points.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive user-level operation and feature explanation, not in-depth technical repair or diagnostic procedures.
Transmission Type:
6-speed Automatic with Manual Shift Mode
Drive Type:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) Standard, All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Optional
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mazda ATF FZ (or equivalent - consult manual for exact specification and part number)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 9.2 quarts (8.7 liters) for refill - Check manual for precise capacity.
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger) for 2008 Model Year
IIHS Frontal Offset Rating:
Good (for 2008 model year, though tests were conducted on later models that generally performed well)
Traction Control:
Standard Electronic Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA)
Airbags:
Standard front airbags, front side-impact airbags, and three-row side-curtain airbags with rollover protection.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system in second-row seating positions.
Head Unit Features:
The navigation system is integrated into the central infotainment unit, featuring a touchscreen display for operation.
Audio System:
Typically equipped with a premium Bose audio system on higher trims, featuring multiple speakers and a subwoofer.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking sensors were available on some trims.
Auxiliary Input:
Standard auxiliary audio input jack for connecting external music devices.
Bluetooth:
Bluetooth hands-free phone capability and audio streaming were available on certain trims or as an option.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using the specified oil type.
Tire Rotation:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended at 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or if towing, under severe conditions, consult manual for specific interval.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20, API SN, ILSAC GF-5 certified (or equivalent meeting Mazda's specifications)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters) with filter - Check manual for precise capacity.
Coolant Type:
Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent phosphate-free OAT coolant.
Transmission Hesitation:
Some owners have reported occasional transmission hesitation or rough shifting, which can sometimes be addressed with software updates or fluid changes.
Engine Misfires:
Sporadic reports of engine misfires, potentially due to ignition coil or spark plug issues.
Power Liftgate Issues:
Some models may experience issues with the optional power liftgate not functioning correctly.
Mazda Philosophy:
Mazda has a history of producing driver-focused vehicles, often emphasizing enjoyable handling and spirited performance, even in practical segments.
First Generation Introduction:
The CX-9 was introduced for the 2007 model year as Mazda's first three-row crossover SUV, designed to compete in a growing segment.
Platform Sharing:
It was built on Mazda's CX-90 platform, which was co-developed with Ford and shared underpinnings with vehicles like the Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX.
Manufacturing Location:
Assembled in Jeffersonville, Indiana, USA.
Production Years First Gen:
2007-2015
Motor Trend SUV Of The Year:
The 2007 Mazda CX-9 was named MotorTrend Sport/Utility of the Year, highlighting its design and driving dynamics.
Consumer Reports:
Consumer Reports ratings varied for the first-generation CX-9, with some praise for its handling and performance, but mixed reviews on reliability in later model years.