The more I drive the "9", and the more I discover about its features, the more I like it. So far, the Delight/Disappointment ratio is very high. The accumulation of all the thoughtful features causes me to feel that I've made a new very good friend that I want to spend time with. Haven't felt this way since my first Lincoln LS.
* Drove to Tucson today while experiencing a not-unusual stiff cross wind. The steering effort caused me to change my decades-long driving style, and apply a firmer grip on the wheel. I hope they can reprogram the effort/speed curve.
* Another "delight". (I define a delight as something that brings a smile to my face, and I think "that's cool".) Secured to the underside corners of the hinged rear cargo lid are short strips of Velcro hooks. What are these for?, I wonder. After a few minutes of poking around, I find the loop portions on the ends of the pull straps that release the third seat back. When engaged with the hooks on the underside of the lid, they hold the lid up and away from grocery bags.
* Every power window switch has three tiny red lights.
* Turning radius surprisingly low.
* I like the Smart Key more every day. I prefer it over the need to enter a code on push buttons.
* I'm now convinced that it has the Denso nav. system. Like the previous Denso systems I had, it has two calibration features: One for location, and one for distance. If tire size is changed, it will re-calibrate the speedometer/odometer.
Three more delights: * Sun visor extensions: I mentioned that they're good for covering the area between the sunvisor & B-Pillar. A HUGE benefit is the shielding of sunlight entering the right side if the windshield. I was travelling south late in the afternoon. The bright sun was entering between the passenger sun visor & the inside rear view mirror. The slide-out extensions block this perfectly.
* The instrument cluster light level is controlled by rotating a knob that is much like the trip odometer re-set knob. When either extreme is reached (brightest/dimmest), it emits a "Beep". Okay, we may say "BFD", but it did bring a smile to my face, and does have some value.
* Climate controls are intuitive and very easy to accomplish a desired setting. No repeated button-pushing to change temperature, for example.
A concern is the unprotected sheet metal on the sides. The vehicle is wide, and angle parking is almost certain to provide me with some door dings. I'll be looking for some form of body side protection that doesn't ugly-up the car.
Lateralg, Thanks for the spot-on report. I just ordered a galaxy gray GT with sand leather, towing package and Homelink mirror. Do you know who installs the towing package because it requires a tranny cooler, HD fan and remapped ECU? I am going to have my audio installer swap out the standard stereo for a Pioneer AVIC-Z2 system. The reason being that I don't want the rear entertainment system which Mazda requires you have to be able to order their NAV system. Am I correct on this? Dammit, I can hardly wait for this vehicle. This is as excited as I've been about a car since I ordered a 1967 Olds 442 with tri-power!
The nav. system requires EITHER the RSES OR the moonroof.
The nav. screen controls the BOSE audio, which I consider excellent, so aftermarket audio may be a problem with nav.
My seven years of experience with factory-installed nav. systems says that the Denso system in the CX-9 is FAR, FAR superior to the OEM Pioneer nav. system. I don't know about the Pioneer after-market system, but I caution you to research it thoroughly. They are in different leagues. One is a pretty, but annoying toy, the Denso a sophisticated instrument.
Also, check the ordering guide. At one time the GT assist package required the nav to be bundled with either moonroof, RSES, or TRAILER TOW.
I'm sure the Bose audio is excellent, I just have no use for a moonroof or rear DVD system,(There's only the two of us). The Pioneer AVIC-Z2 is a complete audio/dvd system which will just use the stock speakers (or I may upgrade).
You're right, the NAV has to be bundled with the moonroof or RSES. Why the moonroof? I don't know. I appreciate your caution about the Pioneer. I don't know about their OEM NAVs, but this AVIC-Z2 system was highly rated at CES in '07 and in '06 as the Z1 version. My audio guy has done many installs of the AVIC-Z1 and isn't aware of any problems. It functions as the CD/stereo, 30 gb HD based NAV, rear camera, satellite radio, Bluetooth (which he says the Mazda system should work OK), DVD player and full, on screen/sw controlled IPOD support. I'm really happy that the CX-9 is working so well for you. I can't wait! Keep us updated as you discover new "delights" or things to smile about.
Just want to report my 1st tank mileage. After one week and about 300 miles of driving, the number is 17.8/gallon. I heard somewhere that the first few tanks' mileage will be low. Is it true?
1) A single tank is an unreliable indicator regardless of mileage.
2) With each new car I plot 3-tank MPG vs. total mileage. It's usual to see MPG improving for about the first 2,000 miles. Consider that MPG is dependent on much more than engine break-in. Drivetrain friction, particularly AWD, will reduce with mileage.
Has anyone seen or test driven a AWD version of the CX-9? I have three Mazda dealerships within 30 miles of my house and none have an AWD version. FWD only.
Does the towing hitch come standard or do I need to order the towing package for that? I won't be needing most of the features in the 1TP package, including the "heavy duty transmission cooler and radiator fan, wiring harness, [...] and revised engine control module", since I won't be towing a heavy trailer.
What I'd like to do is to install a hitch-mounted bike carrier, such as one of these.
The package description includes the word "receiver", but I'm not clear whether this is the same as (or in addition to) the hitch.
I found the following definitions online, which I still find ambiguous but may help guide the discussion:
Hitch A device which attaches directly to a tow vehicle providing the connection between the tow vehicle and the trailer. Hitch installations are most often considered permanent. A fixed tongue hitch includes a flat non-removable drawbar, while a receiver style hitch has a receptacle (typically 1-1/4" or 2") for inserting special ball mounts or bike racks.
Receiver The receptacle part of a trailer hitch which accommodates inserts such as ball mounts, drawbars or accessory carriers. Common receiver sizes are 1-1/4" and 2".
"Just want to report my 1st tank mileage. After one week and about 300 miles of driving, the number is 17.8/gallon. I heard somewhere that the first few tanks' mileage will be low. Is it true?"
what type driving is this. If it is mainly city driving, it's probably dead on for a new FWD.
This is a fair mix of city and highway driving. I would say 60% of highway and 40% of city by the travel distance. It is FWD only. I hope it can increase to over 20 miles/gallon after everything settle in.
"This is a fair mix of city and highway driving. I would say 60% of highway and 40% of city by the travel distance. It is FWD only. I hope it can increase to over 20 miles/gallon after everything settle in."
Averaging over 20 might be optimistic. The way manufacturers determine gas mileage is not really representative of how you're going to actually drive.
Case in point, my daily driver is a 2002 Nissan Maxima with a manual transmission. The mfg says that should equal 21 city and 28 highway (for an automatic...I couldn't readily find the manual averages) and an average of 24 mpg. My typical commute involves rolling hills and crossing two small mountains (they are called mountains...) with 75% of the distance being interstate. I typically commute in the "light" rush hour of the day. I average 20-21 mpg and have so for the last 3 years. I could probably achieve the 24 mixed driving average if I didn't have any hills, if I never hit gridlock and I didn't occasionally floor it to pass a moron, but my commute is probably more realistic than their test.
My wife's current vehicle is an MDX (the one I might replace with a CX-9) and she averages 16-17 in her commute, which is essentially city driving only. On trips, we generally get 22. The MDX is 17-23 with an average of 19. Look familiar?
The CX-9 is 18-24 with a combined average of 20. I'd count on no more than 18 if you want to keep your sanity...unless yo live somewhere like Kansas where there are few stop lights and even fewer hills. ;-)
I am shopping for an imported CUV with 3 rows. Test drove the CX-9 and Audi Q7, and sat inside GL470, MDX, and X5, XC90. Also drove the CX-7, ML350/500 and RX350 about 3-6 months ago. (at the time 3rd row wasn't a requirement)
The concern with CX-9 is the firm/rough ride I've read so much about. After test driving the CX-9 GT the past weekend, it seems to be an non-issue to me. (Our primary and secondary cars are European sports sedan with very firm suspensions, so I have a pretty low bar for the CX-9 to pass). The ride on the Q7 is more punishing than the CX-9, and the steering isn't nearly as responsive. Here are my *impression* on the CX-9 (i.e. they may not be factual, no flame please.)
Likes: - Among all CUV mentioned, the GL has most headroom/legroom in the 3rd row, but CX-9's third row is usable for adult. I am 6'2" and can probably fit for a very short ride. - Responsive steering - I like the sliding 2nd row very much, which isn't available on MDX, GL or X5. CX-9's 3rd row access is possible even when the car seat is installed in 2nd row - if the adult is nimble
Dislikes: - No latch or tether on the 3rd row. The manual says you can put car seat on 3rd row as long as it doesn't require the use of tether. Latch is on all Q7 seats. MDX has no latch on 3rd row but it has tether. X5's manual doesn't recommend putting car seat on 3rd row at all. - The navigation system is hard to use. I tried several times to reset to locale to California, but it still thinks it's in Maryland. The touch screen response is slow. I am used the Garmin nuvi, so the bar is quite high in navigation - Only 3 year standard warranty - Not that inexpensive for a Mazda
I've eliminated: XC90 - 3rd row is designed for people 5 ft or less. GL- hard to access 3rd row, and too expensive X5 - 3rd row is a joke Q7 - despite having latch, the 3rd row doesn't have enough space to put carseat, and don't like the ride.
Right now I am seriously considering the CX-9 and MDX (wife isn't too impressed by the CX-9 though). A fully loaded CX-9 is close to the price of MDX. The MDX's 3rd row maybe unusable for adult but it has tether for car seats and the interior feels more luxurious than the 9. 4 years warranty and higher resale also counts for something...
I'm trying to decide between aftermarket (such as Garmin nuvi) and factory. I understand that factory installed means better integration, additional sensors and possibly better reception as well as bigger screen. Aftermarket represents better portability, significant cost savings ($800 for high-end portable GPS vs. $2300 for nav package) but have to deal with placing (windshield mounts not allowed in CA, looking into beanbags).
I'd consider sucking up the cost, but not being able to input directions while moving (e.g. by passenger) is a deal breaker. MDX+tech package includes voice input, which reduces (if it doesn't eliminate) the problem.
Anyone with experience using voice input for nav, specifically in CX-9 if supported?
"Anyone with experience using voice input for nav, specifically in CX-9 if supported? "
You bet! My CX-9:
"I'm hungry" will display icons for all restaurants. "Chineese" for Chinese restaurants. "Home" for route home. "Zoom in", "Zoom out", "ATM", "Gas Station", "Hospital", many, many others. All while moving. If you have a specific question, I'll test it. The Denso system exceeds my expectations, and I'm experienced and hard to please regarding nav. systems.
I'm an avid Garmin supporter for hand-helds. I've owned Garmin and Lowrance hardware, Garmin, Lowrance, and Delorme software. Garmin is the clear winner. Just as Denso is in OEM auto navigation. Keep in mind that the CX-9 nav. includes Bose sound and back-up rear view.
Possibly the new Pilot? There isn't much info on it other than some really lousy "camouflage" photos of it. Probably, like the current generation MDX/Pilot, the Pilot will be slightly larger.
Your "imports only" comment eliminates the Acadia/Enclave/Outlook. I am with you on the import bias. I wish I didn't like the Enclave because I am so leary of domestic cars. Is there any new information on long term reliability of imports compared to domestics? Or something that breaks it down between European, Japanese and American. I haven't been too excited about considering European models either as my perception is that the quality isn't necessarily better than American and the repair costs are higher.
One note on the Enclave is that it has a 4 yr 50,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty vs. the 3/36 for Acadia/Outlook.
I have the Denso factory nav in my 06 Mazda 3 and it is a major pain in the rear on a number of counts. I am very impressed with the Pioneer nav systems line-up, especially the AVIC-Z1. Wow, what an awesome piece of technology.
I'm looking into CX-9. After reading the brochure carefully, I found this,
Review Camera display w/ auto dimm review mirror (late availability)
Also, this is an O/A, means dealer-installed option.
Don't want to spend extra $1K+ for in-dash Nav, but R. camera is a must have. While many car makers force us to buy theirs by bundling Nav & R. Camera, '08 Highlander sets a standard of having a camera as standard feature, unbundles it from Nav. But, its look and other features shy me away from it.
I haven't tried Pioneer Nav. The one in my Lexus sucks in user interface/interaction.
Can anyone tell what's the pros and cons of having that 20" low profile tires on GT?
Seems like you're not too hurry to get one. Perhaps you can wait a bit longer to check out the Hyundai Veracruz, www.hyundaiusa.com.
I'm "imports-only" too. I had a movie episode-like experience w/ American a while ago. Since then, only Toyota, Nissan and Honda.
I had a high-hope over MDX before it was released. After checking it out myself, I almost turned it down completely. It's now on the bottom of my list.
As of now, I'm focusing on CX-9 GT and Vera. Plus for CX-9, - HID (I'm getting older) - optional r. camera - space across all 3 rows - rolling stability (diff from VSC, check out the brochure)
Minus, - powertrain warranty!!! - look and style - 20" tire (may be not if doesn't wear out quick) - no puddle lamp - missing break assist
There is another forum comparing these two plus others.
Let's see if Honda shows the new Pilot in NYC show.
'08 Highlander's backup camera is not standard. It doesn't come on the base model, but every model above that has it. If they would have made the Highlander a few inches wider and longer, it would fit right in with the other entries, but as it is, it's just too small.
I guess you and I both studied the brochure thoroughly. Agree that roll stability is one of the key advantage on CX-9 (supposedly a volvo design) which is missing from many other CUV/SUVs. I also noticed brake assist was missing and not mentioned anywhere. What do you mean by puddle lamp? They have a door mount lamp on the front doors but nothing on the rear doors. Is that what you are referring to? Or those lamps mounted under outside mirrors?
I previously browsed through the Hyundai website and eliminated the veracruz for some reasons I don't remember. (lack of memory seat or HID perhaps?) I may go back and check the discussion forum again.
I can wait until July but maynot be able to wait until the new pilot to come out.
The Veracruz won't have HID. It has memory seats, mirrors, etc. The word is when the finally release pricing and such that it might have Nav. It also has the smart key start system. The Veracruz has some cool options, but I'm not sure why they chose not to have HID as an option. They have it in Korea.
So far I've owned 3 european premium cars, they either are sold around 4 years or under extended warranty that I purchased. I think you are right on that their reliability isn't superb and repair bill could run high.
My wife had an accident on one of them and she worried the insurance company would force the shop to use after market parts. The shop assured her that they really couldn't because they weren't even available. The repair took more than a month because most of the time was spent waiting for the original parts to arrive and the repair was half the cost of the car for a relatively minor front end damage.
My CX-9 that I've had for more than a week has factory-installed Nav & Rearview camera.
I've owned three cars with Denso nav. system and a 2006 model with Pioneer. One word for the Pioneer I had: "AWFUL"
I find that carefully reading the manual eliminates a lot of the negatives on a nav. system ... except the Pioneer.
FYI I have experience with >48 months use of Denso systems on three vehicles, and 14 months with a 2006 Pioneer system. So my comments come from many months & miles of use, not sales brochures or well-done web sites.
If you want pretty and gimmicks, get Pioneer. If you want performance, get Denso.
Thx for response, Lateral. I assume from your description that you cannot "say" an address and have it added to the route?
Using MazdaUSA build-your-car feature, it turns out Nav pkg requires Rear seat ent. pkg, so you have to cough up close to $5000. This is about the same as adding Tech + Rear ent. in MDX (which I believe are better than corresponding packages in CX-9), and w/MDX wou have option of just Tech (adds $3500 to MSRP). I guess this is fine if you were looking for a loaded CX-9, but it raises the bar for those looking for "just" nav. I'm now leaning towards aftermarket.
With your experience with portable units, have you: a) come across a handheld with voice input? (Many of the new models have bluetooth connectivity, so they are already equipped with microphones.) b) ever used a bean bag, and if so had any problem with it slipping off the dash/being pushed around as you use the touchscreen? c) had any nav problems/limitations due to lack of sensors found on factory-installed systems?
The Navi on CX-9 requires either the RSE or the moonroof package. The moonroof package costs less. I know in CA you are not supposed to mount handheld GPS on the windshield, but my wife does it everyday. I bought a vent-mount for the Garmin. It's not as nice as the factory windshield mount, but it works ok and is more reachable.
I believe the nav. on the GT is bundled with either moon roof or rear seat entertainment system. Mine with RSES has "Total MSRP" of $37,930
I use Garmin's bean bag for my Garmin GPSMap 76CXs. Works great, totally satisfied. I take my Garmin along on trips in order to record tracks. This allows me to document everywhere I've been, when I was there (to the second), the elevation, my speed, and some other stuff. I then export the tracks to Google Earth to get 3-D views, and the ability to re-live my trip. Another thing: Garmin and Google software allow me to insert a tag at any point on the track, and link it to a photo I took there.
Factory GPS has a significant advantage in navigating when signals are weak or lost. It navigates via dead-reckoning when there is no signal. How? It's tied into the car's odometer, and also has the ability to sense a very small change in direction. Combine the two, and it is amazingly accurate. The Denso system in my 2001 car accurately routed me through downtown Chicago while the signal was blocked by overhead railway & tall buildings.
That system, and the one in my CX-9, have an odometer/speedometer calibration feature to maintain accuracy as tires wear, or you change tire sizes.
I have no experience with voice commands in hand-held units.
" I assume from your description that you cannot "say" an address and have it added to the route?"
Correct. But, if you have a previous address, or a waypoint address, already in memory, it can be called up.
Before making a decision, I encourage you to evaluate the quality of the voice guidance of the Denso & Pioneer.
Smart Key: A must for me in any future cars. This is a HUGE positive feature.
1> Visit Mazda's web site, looked for their Jan. sales numbers, clicked on a link, went to Ford.com/Mazda. There were only 82 sold in Jan. Seems like a late Jan. introduction.
2> Based on some post, CX-9 uses Ford's engine same as Edge's. Tranny is Mazda's own tune. Platform is Ford as well. But many others are different. I don't think Ford just own 30% to be the a parent. Since an engine is a car's heart, not sure if I should give them the money for only 5 years. Consumer Reports ranked Mazda pretty high in 5-yr reliability, I think it's the fifth, even before Nissan.
3> Since Vera claims they do offer a driver adaptive 6-sp, I asked my dealer, the mgr came up said yes, but he wasn't sure for how long it would change. Say after being driven by me for 2 months, my wife wants it, CX-9 may not change the way it reacts and coops after just a day. And, it is not tied to any seating memory.
4> Is that 20" a low-profile? No, he said it's not. Speed6's are low-profile. LP does not move even equip w/ AWD in snow, CX-9 are definitely not. But wait a min, the brochure says so. Umm. So, I checked BridgeStone's site, one of theirs for Mazda, P245R50/20 is especially for winter. Can anyone tell us more on this? I don't want a high performance but expensive and hard to find replacement.
Nice post. I happen to agree with much of what you stated.
A fully loaded CX-9 does reach $40K, but, that is where the MDX starts...a loaded MDX is around $48K I think?? The MDX will have great resale, but, you also pay more to begin with..Keep in mind, it is too early to tell what the resale value will be on the CX-9.
In all honesty, the platform is not a major part of the vehicle. It's like the concrete foundation of a house. However, in this case, Mazda designed the CX-9 platform.
Got a copy of Consumer Reports 2007/8 SUV. It had a section about tires. Besides cost of tires, they also concern about wheels. In their pothole test, it also damaged an Accord's wheel and tire who used a "plus-two" size.
I know I may not be right if just fall in love with ..., there are basically two things have to think twice, - a Ford's engine - wheel and tire.
I agree. To be honest, the dated Duratec 30 is a good engine. Being it is rather old, it was virtually trouble free. If you look at the applications Ford used it in over the years, CR rates the engine with a red dot. Since the Duratec 35 is based on the same block, with updated technology and displacement, I do not see why this engine would not fair well.
That request for information is just too huge to expect an owner of a CX-9 to research. I suggest going to a dealer, read the sales brochure, and the owner's manual.
I read the brochure more than 5-6 times, none of these are described. Yes it does mention pressure-monitoring system, but doesn't say how it works. The MDX brochure actually says it'll indicate the actual pressure on each tire.
I test drove the CX-9 but the sales was clueless. He either gave me BS or just said yes to everything I asked...
I find the only trustworthy source is from the people who actually drive the car every day. Many of theses feature are fairly basic and I expect them to be on any car, but then again, I've never owned a Mazda and don't know if they do thing differently.
I think all of us "prospective" owners wouldn't mind hearing the answers to these questions. Maybe several different people (who "already" know the answers) could answer just one or two of the questions (by number) and therefore several people would be getting the total info.
Does anyone know when the power liftback will be available? The brochure says "Spring 2007", but a salesman I spoke with thought they wouldn't see that until the summer (like July or August). has anyone heard differently?
I don't mind reading the manual at all, only if I have one or have access to one. However I am not comfortable with going to the dealer just sit down and spend an hour reading there though.... if I don't get answers here, I may just shoot an email to mazda usa and see if they have any pre-sale support. I don't think these sorts of questions are out of line, they should provide the information on the brochure or website, but I couldn't find any.
Comments
* Drove to Tucson today while experiencing a not-unusual stiff cross wind. The steering effort caused me to change my decades-long driving style, and apply a firmer grip on the wheel. I hope they can reprogram the effort/speed curve.
* Another "delight". (I define a delight as something that brings a smile to my face, and I think "that's cool".)
Secured to the underside corners of the hinged rear cargo lid are short strips of Velcro hooks. What are these for?, I wonder. After a few minutes of poking around, I find the loop portions on the ends of the pull straps that release the third seat back. When engaged with the hooks on the underside of the lid, they hold the lid up and away from grocery bags.
* Every power window switch has three tiny red lights.
* Turning radius surprisingly low.
* I like the Smart Key more every day. I prefer it over the need to enter a code on push buttons.
* I'm now convinced that it has the Denso nav. system. Like the previous Denso systems I had, it has two calibration features: One for location, and one for distance. If tire size is changed, it will re-calibrate the speedometer/odometer.
Three more delights:
* Sun visor extensions: I mentioned that they're good for covering the area between the sunvisor & B-Pillar. A HUGE benefit is the shielding of sunlight entering the right side if the windshield. I was travelling south late in the afternoon. The bright sun was entering between the passenger sun visor & the inside rear view mirror. The slide-out extensions block this perfectly.
* The instrument cluster light level is controlled by rotating a knob that is much like the trip odometer re-set knob. When either extreme is reached (brightest/dimmest), it emits a "Beep". Okay, we may say "BFD", but it did bring a smile to my face, and does have some value.
* Climate controls are intuitive and very easy to accomplish a desired setting. No repeated button-pushing to change temperature, for example.
A concern is the unprotected sheet metal on the sides. The vehicle is wide, and angle parking is almost certain to provide me with some door dings. I'll be looking for some form of body side protection that doesn't ugly-up the car.
The nav. system requires EITHER the RSES OR the moonroof.
The nav. screen controls the BOSE audio, which I consider excellent, so aftermarket audio may be a problem with nav.
My seven years of experience with factory-installed nav. systems says that the Denso system in the CX-9 is FAR, FAR superior to the OEM Pioneer nav. system. I don't know about the Pioneer after-market system, but I caution you to research it thoroughly. They are in different leagues. One is a pretty, but annoying toy, the Denso a sophisticated instrument.
Also, check the ordering guide. At one time the GT assist package required the nav to be bundled with either moonroof, RSES, or TRAILER TOW.
You're right, the NAV has to be bundled with the moonroof or RSES. Why the moonroof? I don't know. I appreciate your caution about the Pioneer. I don't know about their OEM NAVs, but this AVIC-Z2 system was highly rated at CES in '07 and in '06 as the Z1 version. My audio guy has done many installs of the AVIC-Z1 and isn't aware of any problems. It functions as the CD/stereo, 30 gb HD based NAV, rear camera, satellite radio, Bluetooth (which he says the Mazda system should work OK), DVD player and full, on screen/sw controlled IPOD support. I'm really happy that the CX-9 is working so well for you. I can't wait! Keep us updated as you discover new "delights" or things to smile about.
2) With each new car I plot 3-tank MPG vs. total mileage. It's usual to see MPG improving for about the first 2,000 miles. Consider that MPG is dependent on much more than engine break-in. Drivetrain friction, particularly AWD, will reduce with mileage.
What I'd like to do is to install a hitch-mounted bike carrier, such as one of these.
The package description includes the word "receiver", but I'm not clear whether this is the same as (or in addition to) the hitch.
I found the following definitions online, which I still find ambiguous but may help guide the discussion:
Hitch
A device which attaches directly to a tow vehicle providing the connection between the tow vehicle and the trailer. Hitch installations are most often considered permanent. A fixed tongue hitch includes a flat non-removable drawbar, while a receiver style hitch has a receptacle (typically 1-1/4" or 2") for inserting special ball mounts or bike racks.
Receiver
The receptacle part of a trailer hitch which accommodates inserts such as ball mounts, drawbars or accessory carriers. Common receiver sizes are 1-1/4" and 2".
Thx
what type driving is this. If it is mainly city driving, it's probably dead on for a new FWD.
Averaging over 20 might be optimistic. The way manufacturers determine gas mileage is not really representative of how you're going to actually drive.
Case in point, my daily driver is a 2002 Nissan Maxima with a manual transmission. The mfg says that should equal 21 city and 28 highway (for an automatic...I couldn't readily find the manual averages) and an average of 24 mpg. My typical commute involves rolling hills and crossing two small mountains (they are called mountains...) with 75% of the distance being interstate. I typically commute in the "light" rush hour of the day. I average 20-21 mpg and have so for the last 3 years. I could probably achieve the 24 mixed driving average if I didn't have any hills, if I never hit gridlock and I didn't occasionally floor it to pass a moron, but my commute is probably more realistic than their test.
My wife's current vehicle is an MDX (the one I might replace with a CX-9) and she averages 16-17 in her commute, which is essentially city driving only. On trips, we generally get 22. The MDX is 17-23 with an average of 19. Look familiar?
The CX-9 is 18-24 with a combined average of 20. I'd count on no more than 18 if you want to keep your sanity...unless yo live somewhere like Kansas where there are few stop lights and even fewer hills. ;-)
The concern with CX-9 is the firm/rough ride I've read so much about. After test driving the CX-9 GT the past weekend, it seems to be an non-issue to me. (Our primary and secondary cars are European sports sedan with very firm suspensions, so I have a pretty low bar for the CX-9 to pass). The ride on the Q7 is more punishing than the CX-9, and the steering isn't nearly as responsive.
Here are my *impression* on the CX-9 (i.e. they may not be factual, no flame please.)
Likes:
- Among all CUV mentioned, the GL has most headroom/legroom in the 3rd row, but CX-9's third row is usable for adult. I am 6'2" and can probably fit for a very short ride.
- Responsive steering
- I like the sliding 2nd row very much, which isn't available on MDX, GL or X5. CX-9's 3rd row access is possible even when the car seat is installed in 2nd row - if the adult is nimble
Dislikes:
- No latch or tether on the 3rd row. The manual says you can put car seat on 3rd row as long as it doesn't require the use of tether. Latch is on all Q7 seats. MDX has no latch on 3rd row but it has tether. X5's manual doesn't recommend putting car seat on 3rd row at all.
- The navigation system is hard to use. I tried several times to reset to locale to California, but it still thinks it's in Maryland. The touch screen response is slow. I am used the Garmin nuvi, so the bar is quite high in navigation
- Only 3 year standard warranty
- Not that inexpensive for a Mazda
I've eliminated:
XC90 - 3rd row is designed for people 5 ft or less.
GL- hard to access 3rd row, and too expensive
X5 - 3rd row is a joke
Q7 - despite having latch, the 3rd row doesn't have enough space to put carseat, and don't like the ride.
Right now I am seriously considering the CX-9 and MDX (wife isn't too impressed by the CX-9 though).
A fully loaded CX-9 is close to the price of MDX. The MDX's 3rd row maybe unusable for adult but it has tether for car seats and the interior feels more luxurious than the 9. 4 years warranty and higher resale also counts for something...
Any other suggestions. Imports only please.
I consider the Pioneer system a cute/pretty toy, and the Denso a serious navigation instrument.
I see no slow response in my CX-9, and had no trouble telling it that we're located in AZ. A serious review of the manual may be in order.
Powertrain warranty I believe is 6/60. A 7/70 B-to-B can be had for as little as $1,300.
I posted a review of my CX-9 about a week ago.
I'm trying to decide between aftermarket (such as Garmin nuvi) and factory. I understand that factory installed means better integration, additional sensors and possibly better reception as well as bigger screen. Aftermarket represents better portability, significant cost savings ($800 for high-end portable GPS vs. $2300 for nav package) but have to deal with placing (windshield mounts not allowed in CA, looking into beanbags).
I'd consider sucking up the cost, but not being able to input directions while moving (e.g. by passenger) is a deal breaker. MDX+tech package includes voice input, which reduces (if it doesn't eliminate) the problem.
Anyone with experience using voice input for nav, specifically in CX-9 if supported?
You bet! My CX-9:
"I'm hungry" will display icons for all restaurants. "Chineese" for Chinese restaurants. "Home" for route home. "Zoom in", "Zoom out", "ATM", "Gas Station", "Hospital", many, many others. All while moving. If you have a specific question, I'll test it. The Denso system exceeds my expectations, and I'm experienced and hard to please regarding nav. systems.
I'm an avid Garmin supporter for hand-helds. I've owned Garmin and Lowrance hardware, Garmin, Lowrance, and Delorme software. Garmin is the clear winner. Just as Denso is in OEM auto navigation. Keep in mind that the CX-9 nav. includes Bose sound and back-up rear view.
Possibly the new Pilot? There isn't much info on it other than some really lousy "camouflage" photos of it. Probably, like the current generation MDX/Pilot, the Pilot will be slightly larger.
Your "imports only" comment eliminates the Acadia/Enclave/Outlook. I am with you on the import bias. I wish I didn't like the Enclave because I am so leary of domestic cars. Is there any new information on long term reliability of imports compared to domestics? Or something that breaks it down between European, Japanese and American. I haven't been too excited about considering European models either as my perception is that the quality isn't necessarily better than American and the repair costs are higher.
One note on the Enclave is that it has a 4 yr 50,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty vs. the 3/36 for Acadia/Outlook.
Review Camera display w/ auto dimm review mirror (late availability)
Also, this is an O/A, means dealer-installed option.
Don't want to spend extra $1K+ for in-dash Nav, but R. camera is a must have. While many car makers force us to buy theirs by bundling Nav & R. Camera, '08 Highlander sets a standard of having a camera as standard feature, unbundles it from Nav. But, its look and other features shy me away from it.
I haven't tried Pioneer Nav. The one in my Lexus sucks in user interface/interaction.
Can anyone tell what's the pros and cons of having that 20" low profile tires on GT?
Seems like you're not too hurry to get one. Perhaps you can wait a bit longer to check out the Hyundai Veracruz, www.hyundaiusa.com.
I'm "imports-only" too. I had a movie episode-like experience w/ American a while ago. Since then, only Toyota, Nissan and Honda.
I had a high-hope over MDX before it was released. After checking it out myself, I almost turned it down completely. It's now on the bottom of my list.
As of now, I'm focusing on CX-9 GT and Vera.
Plus for CX-9,
- HID (I'm getting older)
- optional r. camera
- space across all 3 rows
- rolling stability (diff from VSC, check out the brochure)
Minus,
- powertrain warranty!!!
- look and style
- 20" tire (may be not if doesn't wear out quick)
- no puddle lamp
- missing break assist
There is another forum comparing these two plus others.
Let's see if Honda shows the new Pilot in NYC show.
I guess you and I both studied the brochure thoroughly.
Agree that roll stability is one of the key advantage on CX-9 (supposedly a volvo design) which is missing from many other CUV/SUVs. I also noticed brake assist was missing and not mentioned anywhere. What do you mean by puddle lamp? They have a door mount lamp on the front doors but nothing on the rear doors. Is that what you are referring to? Or those lamps mounted under outside mirrors?
I previously browsed through the Hyundai website and eliminated the veracruz for some reasons I don't remember. (lack of memory seat or HID perhaps?) I may go back and check the discussion forum again.
I can wait until July but maynot be able to wait until the new pilot to come out.
Pros:
Looks much nicer
Firmer ride
Cons:
Firmer ride
More expensive to replace and fewer selections
My wife had an accident on one of them and she worried the insurance company would force the shop to use after market parts. The shop assured her that they really couldn't because they weren't even available. The repair took more than a month because most of the time was spent waiting for the original parts to arrive and the repair was half the cost of the car for a relatively minor front end damage.
I've owned three cars with Denso nav. system and a 2006 model with Pioneer. One word for the Pioneer I had: "AWFUL"
I find that carefully reading the manual eliminates a lot of the negatives on a nav. system ... except the Pioneer.
FYI I have experience with >48 months use of Denso systems on three vehicles, and 14 months with a 2006 Pioneer system. So my comments come from many months & miles of use, not sales brochures or well-done web sites.
If you want pretty and gimmicks, get Pioneer. If you want performance, get Denso.
Using MazdaUSA build-your-car feature, it turns out Nav pkg requires Rear seat ent. pkg, so you have to cough up close to $5000. This is about the same as adding Tech + Rear ent. in MDX (which I believe are better than corresponding packages in CX-9), and w/MDX wou have option of just Tech (adds $3500 to MSRP). I guess this is fine if you were looking for a loaded CX-9, but it raises the bar for those looking for "just" nav. I'm now leaning towards aftermarket.
With your experience with portable units, have you:
a) come across a handheld with voice input? (Many of the new models have bluetooth connectivity, so they are already equipped with microphones.)
b) ever used a bean bag, and if so had any problem with it slipping off the dash/being pushed around as you use the touchscreen?
c) had any nav problems/limitations due to lack of sensors found on factory-installed systems?
I know in CA you are not supposed to mount handheld GPS on the windshield, but my wife does it everyday. I bought a vent-mount for the Garmin. It's not as nice as the factory windshield mount, but it works ok and is more reachable.
I use Garmin's bean bag for my Garmin GPSMap 76CXs. Works great, totally satisfied. I take my Garmin along on trips in order to record tracks. This allows me to document everywhere I've been, when I was there (to the second), the elevation, my speed, and some other stuff. I then export the tracks to Google Earth to get 3-D views, and the ability to re-live my trip. Another thing: Garmin and Google software allow me to insert a tag at any point on the track, and link it to a photo I took there.
Factory GPS has a significant advantage in navigating when signals are weak or lost. It navigates via dead-reckoning when there is no signal. How? It's tied into the car's odometer, and also has the ability to sense a very small change in direction. Combine the two, and it is amazingly accurate. The Denso system in my 2001 car accurately routed me through downtown Chicago while the signal was blocked by overhead railway & tall buildings.
That system, and the one in my CX-9, have an odometer/speedometer calibration feature to maintain accuracy as tires wear, or you change tire sizes.
I have no experience with voice commands in hand-held units.
" I assume from your description that you cannot "say" an address and have it added to the route?"
Correct. But, if you have a previous address, or a waypoint address, already in memory, it can be called up.
Before making a decision, I encourage you to evaluate the quality of the voice guidance of the Denso & Pioneer.
Smart Key: A must for me in any future cars. This is a HUGE positive feature.
2> Based on some post, CX-9 uses Ford's engine same as Edge's. Tranny is Mazda's own tune. Platform is Ford as well. But many others are different. I don't think Ford just own 30% to be the a parent.
Since an engine is a car's heart, not sure if I should give them the money for only 5 years. Consumer Reports ranked Mazda pretty high in 5-yr reliability, I think it's the fifth, even before Nissan.
3> Since Vera claims they do offer a driver adaptive 6-sp, I asked my dealer, the mgr came up said yes, but he wasn't sure for how long it would change. Say after being driven by me for 2 months, my wife wants it, CX-9 may not change the way it reacts and coops after just a day.
And, it is not tied to any seating memory.
4> Is that 20" a low-profile? No, he said it's not. Speed6's are low-profile. LP does not move even equip w/ AWD in snow, CX-9 are definitely not. But wait a min, the brochure says so. Umm. So, I checked BridgeStone's site, one of theirs for Mazda, P245R50/20 is especially for winter. Can anyone tell us more on this? I don't want a high performance but expensive and hard to find replacement.
5> Driver's seat is firm but comfortable.
6> 2nd row has 3 position for back and forth.
7> Nav is from NavTeQ.
Anxious to see Veracruz.
A fully loaded CX-9 does reach $40K, but, that is where the MDX starts...a loaded MDX is around $48K I think?? The MDX will have great resale, but, you also pay more to begin with..Keep in mind, it is too early to tell what the resale value will be on the CX-9.
Ah, platform is Mazda, not Ford.
CX-9 has memory seat.
DRIVER-adaptive transmission? Some claim to be, but really aren't. Better research this. If they just say "adaptive", that's a whole different story.
Got a copy of Consumer Reports 2007/8 SUV. It had a section about tires. Besides cost of tires, they also concern about wheels. In their pothole test, it also damaged an Accord's wheel and tire who used a "plus-two" size.
I know I may not be right if just fall in love with ..., there are basically two things have to think twice,
- a Ford's engine
- wheel and tire.
The Duratec 35 was on the Ward's 10 Best Engines list for 2007.
The wheel and tire is not good though.
1. Brake pad wear warning light/indicator? If so, does it tell you whether the front or rear need replacement?
2. Door ajar warning - does it show you which door? Does it include the sunroof if left opened?
3. Low fuel warning? Is it audible or just indicator on dash?
4. Low coolant/oil warning lights?
5. head lights/brake lights failure warning?
6. Is it true that the low-tire-pressure warning is just a light on dash, and doesn't tell you which tire is low?
7. Does it indicat whether it's in AWD mode or traction control when it is engaged?
8. How is the maintenance reminder system, is it just based on mileage driven or based on the way the person drives?
Thanks in advance..
I test drove the CX-9 but the sales was clueless. He either gave me BS or just said yes to everything I asked...
I find the only trustworthy source is from the people who actually drive the car every day. Many of theses feature are fairly basic and I expect them to be on any car, but then again, I've never owned a Mazda and don't know if they do thing differently.
I'd spare an hour to read the manual. I happened to know this is the best way to know a car.
However I am not comfortable with going to the dealer just sit down and spend an hour reading there though.... if I don't get answers here, I may just shoot an email to mazda usa and see if they have any pre-sale support.
I don't think these sorts of questions are out of line, they should provide the information on the brochure or website, but I couldn't find any.