Mazda CX-9 now has three variants in PH

Mazda is now giving CX-9 buyers more choices with three variants. PHOTO FROM MAZDA

The Mazda CX-9 is the crème de la crème of the brand’s crossover lineup, offering the best in a segment-beating package (save for captain’s chairs which only the CX-8 has). While we know that there are a bunch of new CX models coming in the future, that didn’t stop the automaker from keeping its biggest SUV fresh and updated for 2022.

The automaker is likely extending the CX-9's life before the new CX models take over. PHOTOS FROM MAZDA

The new CX-9 will now be offered in three trim levels: the base Touring, the mid-spec Black Edition, and the top AWD Exclusive.

Changes include a new grille design, auto brake hold, a larger 9.2-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay support (and Android Auto, of course), and a wireless charging pad.

These are all still powered by the 2.5-liter turbocharged Skyactiv-G engine with an output of 227hp and 420Nm, which is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. G-Vectoring Control Plus helps put the power down to the ground properly.

The base Touring will probably have the softest ride from its high-sidewall tires. PHOTO FROM MAZDA

The Touring grade will run you for P2,490,000. It has 18-inch wheels, LED headlights with halogen DRLs, a traditional instrument binnacle, a six-speaker sound system, rain-sensing wipers, and black leather upholstery with a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat.

The Black Edition just slaps on black trim to make it more macho. PHOTO FROM MAZDA

The Black Edition retails for P2,790,000 and as its name suggests, receives blacked-out elements found in the grille, 20-inch wheels, and side mirrors, along with bright burgundy-red leather upholstery. It also comes with some of the luxuries found on the higher-spec variant like ventilated front seats with memory (for the driver).

Outside, there’s a power liftgate, adaptive LED headlights, a 7-inch LCD instrument binnacle, paddle shifters, 12-speaker Bose sound system, rear sunshades, a 360° camera, and heads-up display. It also receives the following i-Activsense features: Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist, and Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

It probably wouldn't hurt to give the AWD Exclusive black wheels too. PHOTOS FROM MAZDA

The top-of-the-line AWD Exclusive costs P2,990,000. Naturally, it gets all the toys from the Black Edition plus bright-silver 20-inch wheels, a metallic-gray grille, a sunroof, a frameless auto-dimming mirror, larger exhaust tips, and brown Nappa leather trim with diamond-pattern stitching. There is also more safety gear with Radar Cruise Control and Smart City Brake Support.

All new Mazda vehicles come with a five-year service plan and a three-year (or 100,000km) warranty. This makes the CX-9 a compelling alternative to other premium seven-seaters in the market.