Mazda Forum - Mazda Enthusiast Forums

Hello all,

I am in the market for a CX-9. I definitely want a 2010+ with the updated styling, and nicer interior. Looking at AWD only, Touring or GT, for under $25,000. That price range leaves a pretty small selection, but I really don't want to go higher... though new 2012's tend to be in the neighborhood of $6-7k off, which is tempting, but still just out of the price range I want to be right now.

Anyway, I am looking at a 2010 Grand Touring with the upgraded Bose system, rear-view camera, sunroof etc, 33k miles and Mazda CPO. For exactly the same price I have found a 2012 Touring with no additional options and 19,000 miles also CPO. I have also seen several 2011 Tourings with no options and not CPO that tend to be a couple of $k cheaper.

From the searches I have done the only difference between the 2010 and the 2012 is a 1mpg difference in the EPA rating, however on the fueleconomy.gov website the individual results are actually higher for the 2010 than 11 or 12. Since these have been out for a few years has anyone noticed an actual difference in fuel economy between the years? 1mpg on a standardized test really seems like rounding error more than a real difference but I'm curious.

Are there any other differences I should be aware of? I really like the extra options on the 2010 I have found and have not found any 2011 or 12 with the same options at the right price point.

Also, I like almost everything that comes with the Grand Touring model except the 20" wheels. Is there anything (other than initial cost) that would prevent me from putting 18" wheels on a Grand Touring? I assume brakes etc are the same size and it would just be a matter of buying 18" wheels and tires but wanted to see. Seems easier to put 18" wheels on a GT than try to get all the other stuff I want on a Touring. May even be able to get the dealer to do a swap before purchase since they are a Mazda dealer but a lot of dealers don't want to mess with that.