The 2020 Mazda CX-9 comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic.Several previously optional safety features are now standard on the base Sport trim level.New options, such as a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen and second-row captain's chairs.Two USB ports added to the third row on Grand Touring and Signature models.Maximum torque output goes from 310 to 320 lb-ft with 93-octane fuel.
PROS Premium interior, especially in the top-level Signature trim Sporty handling Comfortable and quiet on the highway
CONS Cargo capacity isn't as generous as in competitors Third-row seats aren't especially accommodating
The 2020 Mazda CX-9 is a crossover SUV that rewards drivers more than it does other passengers.
Pros Very attractive Well-done interior Good safety gear Engaging responsiveness
Cons Lousy infotainment Cramped third-row and cargo space Limited lineup
Mazda has given the CX-9 several upgrades for 2020, not least of which is a standard suite of driver-assistance features called i-Activsense. The bundle includes automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Also now standard are heated front seats with power adjustments for the driver, rain-sensing windshield wipers, automatic headlamps, and heated exterior mirrors. Touring, Grand Touring, and Signature models now come with a larger 9.0-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a new key-fob design, and power-adjustable second-row seats.
Pros Snappy driving dynamics, great fuel economy, premium cabin.
Cons Small cargo bay, third row is only for kids, low towing capacity.
For 2021 Redesigned cargo area adds more capacity.New Black Line Special Edition package limited to 1,000 units.Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are now standard.
Pros High fuel economy Lots of standard and optional safety tech Maneuverable around town thanks to small dimensions
Cons Infotainment interface can be difficult to use Tepid acceleration Limited rear legroom Cargo area has a high liftover height
The 2021 Lexus UX taps design verve to hawk its cozy interior space and its middling performance.
Pros Good looks outside Inside, too Frugal UX Hybrid Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, gratis
Cons Drivetrain can drone Short on acceleration Gets pricey for its size Cramped rear seat
The 2021 Lexus UX Hybrid's #9 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Hybrid and Electric SUVs category. Currently the Lexus UX Hybrid has a score of 7.4 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 17 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Generous standard features list Relaxed ride Above-average fuel economy
Cons Limited cargo space Fussy infotainment controls Lethargic acceleration