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 2020, the Santa Fe lineup receives minor updates that mainly include reshuffled content. The base SE and mid-level SEL models add a standard Rear Occupant Alert that reminds owners to check the back seat. The SEL also gets more standard driver assists (blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and more). All SEL models with the Convenience package now have wireless charging for phones. The top-tier Limited model now has premium doorsills, dark-chrome exterior trim, and a new Blind-View Monitor.
Pros Excellent value versus rivals, enjoyable to drive daily, eminently practical cabin.
Cons Not particularly quick, ho-hum interior design and materials, mediocre fuel economy.
The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe ranked #2 in Midsize SUVs. Currently the Hyundai Santa Fe has a score of 8.5 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 21 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Comfortable ride Good fuel economy Quality interior Lots of easy-to-use tech features
Cons Underwhelming base engine Rivals handle better Less cargo space than some competitors
The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe comes with front wheel drive, and all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.Enhanced blind-spot safety tech now standard on Limited trim.Minor revisions to feature availability.Ultimate top trim is gone.
Pros Abundant standard features for the money High-quality interior materials Generous warranty coverage Several standard and optional active safety features
Cons Base 2.4-liter engine's power and mpg are subpar View out of the rear side is blocked by wide roof pillars Sharp bumps can transmit harshness and road noise into the cabin