Mazda CX-9 vs Cupra Formentor
What's the difference?

Mazda CX-9

$18,990 - $42,990

2021 price

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Cupra Formentor

$49,990 - $94,990

2026 price

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Summary

2021 Mazda CX-9

2026 Cupra Formentor

By Justin Hilliard

By Jack Quick

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 4, 2.5L

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Fuel Type

Unleaded Petrol

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

8.4L/100km (combined)

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Seating

Likes

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

Well-equipped
Massive range boost for PHEV
Fun and engaging to drive

Dislikes

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

Small boot in PHEV
Formentor S runs out of puff
Lots of tyre roar

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 Cupra Formentor Summary

We’ve waited more than two years and it’s finally here.

Cupra has introduced the updated version of its most popular car in Australia, the Formentor.

A spicy small SUV rival to the likes of the Mini Countryman, BMW X2 and Audi Q3, among others, this design-led small SUV is now offered in more flavours than ever before.

It’s our first time testing out this updated Formentor on local soil, so read on to see how it stacks up.

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Deep dive comparison

2021 Mazda CX-9 2026 Cupra Formentor

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

It’s clear that Cupra has listened to feedback as this updated Formentor addresses many key criticisms of the pre-update car. Overall it makes it easier to live with and to recommend than before.

Although the VZe's updated PHEV powertrain offers double the amount of electric range, the V forms as a sweet spot of the line-up as it offers all the power and equipment you'd ever need. It's hard to look past the top-spec VZx though as power is a drug.

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

Mazda CX-9 vs Cupra Formentor What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Mazda CX-9 vs Cupra Formentor
What's the difference?