Well, after quite a bit of internet research I had all but decided that a new CX-5 Signature was going to replace my 2011 Outback. Until I test drove one about an hour ago. Everything about the ride was fine, but I really needed the front seat to go back another inch or two. The ride was only about 5 minutes as I just wanted to check the car out and actually see one for real rather than just online. The seat in my outback goes at least 3 inches further back, which is more than i need. Unfortunately, there were no CX-9's on the lot for me to try. They had over a dozen CX-5's.

I was also unimpressed with the Bose stereo. The HK system in my 2011 Outback Limited blows it away, and I am far from an audiophile.

Other than those 2 things, I liked everything else about the car. There's enough room behind the rear seat for my needs. The rear seats would be a bit cramped, but I would say that 98% of my driving is alone or with only 1 passenger so that's a non-issue.

The CX-9 is about 20 inches longer than the CX-5, so hopefully there's a couple more inches of front seat room for the driver. I'll have to check one out. While I certainly don't need the extra size and room, the bigger gas tank actually gives the vehicle more driving range between tanks which means less visits to the gas station. I like that.

-Cuz

 

You might be better off with a cx-9.At least it's turbo'd and shouldn't have the cylinder deactivation (CD) problem (BIG problem) that Mazda doesn't seem to have a permanent fix for.For more info on this and alot of info on Mazda's,check out the "mazdas247" website if you haven't yet and be amazed.Lots of good info and people.

 

OOOPS, just checked the other forum and see you've been there.

 

Yes, thanks. I've been lurking at both since I became interested in a Mazda as my next vehicle.

 

Mazda has a fix for the cylinder deactivation (CD). There is a recall out and you can get a software update at your dealer.