I'm new to this forum and I hope you guys can help me out! I am strongly considering a late model CX-9. I won't hide it, I have been a huge Toyota fan for years. I own an 07 Prius and a 2015 Sienna right now. The need for a car is due to the Prius going to the oldest child next year when she turns sixteen. The reason I am not looking at Toyota again right now is due to my needs. I do a lot of ministry travel, and I have four kids. So we have to have at least six seats. The only option for that is another van, or a larger SUV. The Toyota Highlander is so stinking expensive, and I have to look at the latest models to get decent MPG. The Van would work, but to get better MPG I'd have to go with the new hybrid which is a lot of money and I really don't care for hybrids. I already had to replace that Prius hybrid battery

My goal is a vehicle I don't have to squat into as I am six foot (that Prius...ugghh...lol), enough seats for all six of us, better MPG than the Sienna (avg 20-21 at best), and somewhere around $25k. The CX-9 is literally the only one I can find that would fit that!

I do not really trust domestic cars, and I know since 2013 Mazda has been making their own transmissions and engines. I wanted to ask if you felt Mazda was on par with the reliability of Toyota now that Ford parts are out, and if the CX-9 is a good choice for us. It looks great! I don't need a ton of storage as our trips are usually single-day trips or maybe one night away. For that we will still use the Sienna. We are putting 25-30k miles a year on it, and I really need to stop so we don't wear it out. We need to spread it out. Bought in 2017 w/ 45k miles, now at 140k. Paid off at least

Thanks!

 

The current generation of CX9s have been very reliable. This is 2016 to the current model year. There are always a few things, but most of these have been unusual and taken care of by Mazda. My 2016 has been to the dealership twice...the initial free oil change (a dealership perk) and free repair of a squeaky spring seat under a service bulletin. There have been a few major problems, a very small number of defective engines, that have been replaced by Mazda. I'd get another. Do check the seating position. I'm 6' tall, and I fit, although some don't find it comfortable. By the way, Toyota's current hybrid battery warranty is 10 years or 150,000 miles.

 

I'm glad you've found a potential vehicle that meets your needs. It sounds like you've done your research and have specific requirements for your next car, including the need for at least six seats, decent fuel economy, and a budget of around $25k. I also read this guide about 6 Cylinder Engine Firing Order.

It's understandable that you may be hesitant to purchase another Toyota given the high cost of the Highlander and the expense of the hybrid Sienna. The Mazda CX-9 is a popular choice among families looking for a mid-size SUV with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. It's also known for its sporty driving dynamics and fuel-efficient engine.

Based on your requirements, the CX-9 may be a great option for you. It's important to take a test drive and see how it feels to drive and how comfortable it is for you and your family. You may also want to research the CX-9's reliability and maintenance costs to ensure it's a good long-term investment.