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.
The 2019 Honda CR-V ranked #2 in Compact SUVs. Currently the Honda CR-V has a score of 8.6 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 18 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Generous passenger space Immense cargo hold Comfortable ride Great fuel economy estimates
Cons Base model lacks touch screen Competitors have more standard safety features
The 2019 Honda CR-V rewards owners with fantastic utility and great safety scores.
Pros Roomy, versatile interior Excellent value Comfortable ride Lots of safety gear on most models Classy overall feel
Cons Weird looks Base CR-V LX short on features No thrill machine Competitors are catching up
For 2019, the CR-V is essentially unchanged.
Pros Turbocharged engine delivers a rare combination of thrift and zest Roomy interior with cavernous cargo capacity for this class Rides comfortably yet handles corners athletically Plentiful and thoughtful storage areas
Cons Touchscreen can be finicky to use and lacks a separate tuning knob Underwhelming base engine on the LX trim
