Mazda CX-9 vs Audi Q7
What's the difference?

Mazda CX-9

$24,990 - $49,475

2021 price

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Audi Q7

$74,990 - $117,777

2025 price

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Summary

2021 Mazda CX-9

2025 Audi Q7

By Justin Hilliard

By Chris Thompson

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 4, 2.5L

Turbo V6, 3.0L

Fuel Type

Unleaded Petrol

Diesel/Electric

Fuel Efficiency

8.4L/100km (combined)

7.0L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

New 10.25-inch display
Seven-seater's versatility
Comfortable ride

Extremely comfortable
Sensible tech and ergonomics
Design still looks current

Dislikes

Expensive AWD option
Six-seater's compromises
Older ANCAP safety rating

Thirst for fuel
Lack of front row storage
Occasional drivetrain hesitation

2021 Mazda CX-9 Summary

The second-generation Mazda CX-9 may have been on sale in Australia for nearly five years now, but it remains the second best-selling large SUV using unibody construction (as opposed to old-school, off-road-focused body-on-frame).

That said, it is getting on a bit, so Mazda’s given it an update with a twist for 2021, hoping to inject a little bit more life into its flagship model.

And when we say twist, we mean it. After all, who would’ve thought there’d ever be a six-seat CX-9? Well, we’ve checked it out to see if it’s the version we needed all along. Read on.

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2025 Audi Q7 Summary

The updated Audi Q7 is a bit of a game of ‘spot the difference’ - but even though it’s far from a new generation, the update is more than just some shiny new bits.

While the brand’s first SUV is still in its second generation, a bit of modernised design and some tech tweaks are aimed at keeping it in line with rivals, even as it nears a decade on sale.

As well as the new features, there’s also a new variant bound for Aussie showrooms. So, is it still up to the task?

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Deep dive comparison

2021 Mazda CX-9 2025 Audi Q7

Verdict

The CX-9 is still a great option for families looking for a large SUV, even if it is starting to show its age as new rivals continue to launch with newer technologies.

That said, the availability of a luxury-focused six-seat configuration (Azami LE AWD) for the first time might be enough to convince some buyers to give it further consideration.

But for others who need the versatility of seven seats, this is still the CX-9 we’ve all come to know and love – but just a little bit better – particularly in its best-selling Azami AWD form.

Verdict

Overall, changes to the Q7 aren’t quite revolutionary, but that’s okay because it was already a fantastic large SUV.

The fact Audi has kept the price around the same mark and introduced a cheaper entry-grade should be welcome news for prospective buyers.

But even the existing variants are capable and impressive family haulers… and now they’re just that little bit better.

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.

Mazda CX-9 vs Audi Q7 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Mazda CX-9 vs Audi Q7
What's the difference?