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.
Updated styling for 2020.New infotainment system with two screens.New V6 engine with more power than last year.
Pros Exceptional interior materials and build quality Excellent ride quality regardless of road surface Plenty of safety and infotainment technology features Surprisingly agile handling
Cons Offers less cargo space than most competitors Cramped third-row seat New infotainment system is distracting to use
The Q7 receives an extensive facelift for 2020, including updated exterior styling, more technology features on the inside, and a new turbocharged V-6 engine is now optional and is identified by the "55" badge; a turbo four-cylinder remains the base engine, and Q7s powered by this powertrain wear "45" badges. The 2020 Q7 also adopts the two-row Q8 SUV's touchscreen-heavy interior, featuring a large infotainment display stacked on top of another secondary display that handles vehicle settings and climate control.
Pros Back-road athleticism, beautiful and high-tech cabin, three-row versatility.
Cons Pricey with extras, snug third row, subtle styling gets lost in parking lots.
The 2020 Audi Q7 is brimming with tech and comfort, a surefire way to stay comfortable in any school parking lot.
Pros Luxurious interior Quick SQ7 on the way Improved touchscreens Standard 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
Cons Touchscreens can be distracting Spendy in top trims Third row is best for children Competitors have caught up
