Mazda CX-9 vs BMW X3
What's the difference?

Mazda CX-9

$18,990 - $42,990

2021 price

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BMW X3

$88,100 - $131,400

2026 price

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Land Rover Discovery Sport

Mercedes-Benz EQ-Class

Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Mercedes-Benz G63

Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLS

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Mitsubishi Outlander

Mitsubishi Pajero

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

Summary

2021 Mazda CX-9

2026 BMW X3

By Justin Hilliard

By Mark Oastler

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 4, 2.5L

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Fuel Type

Unleaded Petrol

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Fuel Efficiency

8.4L/100km (combined)

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Seating

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Likes

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

M performance
Rear seat knee/headroom
Versatile family/driver’s car

Dislikes

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

No ANCAP
Prefers premium fuel
Rear seat shoulder room for three adults

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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2026 BMW X3 Summary

BMW has recently launched its fourth-generation (G45) X3 range, which comprises three petrol variants including the entry-level 20 xDrive, mid-grade 30e xDrive PHEV and top-shelf M50 xDrive.

The new trio brings revised powertrains, new exterior and interior styling, increased standard equipment, enhanced technology and an emphasis on the use of sustainable materials.

We recently trialled the five-seater flagship to see if it has the right mix of performance and practicality to maintain the X3’s enduring appeal for Aussie families.

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Deep dive comparison

2021 Mazda CX-9 2026 BMW X3

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

This is a highly competent all-rounder, given that it has the comfort and practicality for urban family duties yet with its revered M breeding can produce a level of performance which, in competent hands, could hold its own at a track day where its capabilities could be safely explored.

Mazda CX-9 vs BMW X3 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Mazda CX-9 vs BMW X3
What's the difference?