The CX-9 is a fine-looking machine and arguably one of the best lookers on the road. I say arguably because people argue with me about it.
Mazda seems to be able to apply its curvy, muscular design language to pretty much any size and the CX-9 is probably the most successful of its SUV range. The big wheels look fantastic, the grille isn't too overbearing and there's nothing flashy about it, just understated prettiness.
Not many car makers are doing genuinely pretty cars anymore, with most going for impact rather than beauty, but Mazda is wisely sticking to its guns.
Inside things are super-plush, if a little dark, but that's a Mazda thing and, in this case, not helped by the Walnut Brown colour option. Go with the white and it's significantly brighter, although grubby kiddies and white leather may not mix.
This variant is also extremely well-equipped and as modern, tech-heavy cars go, it's got a very calm interior, with very few buttons about the place, apart from the steering wheel. The new 10.25-inch screen is great to look at and has the new version of MZD Connect, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to pump through the BOSE-branded speakers.