Mazda CX-9 vs Porsche Macan
What's the difference?

Mazda CX-9

$18,990 - $42,990

2021 price

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Porsche Macan

$97,888 - $166,950

2024 price

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Summary

2021 Mazda CX-9

2024 Porsche Macan

By Justin Hilliard

By Andrew Chesterton

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 4, 2.5L

Electric motor type

Permanent Magnet

Fuel Type

Unleaded Petrol

Vehicle type

Battery Electric

Fuel Efficiency

8.4L/100km (combined)

Electric range

654 km

Energy consumption

16.2 kWh/100km

Battery capacity

100.00 kWh

Seating

Likes

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

Awesome ride and handing
Big battery means big range
Turbo acceleration is ridiculous

Dislikes

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

Big price jump from ICE
Lacks fizz and emotion
Ergonomic quirks in the cabin

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.

View full pricing & specs

2024 Porsche Macan Summary

This might be the biggest gamble in Porsche's history. It's the latest version of its best-selling car, the Porsche Macan, only this one has a very big difference.

You see, this time, it’s all-electric. There is not an internal-combustion engine (ICE) in sight. And that makes climbing into an entry-level Macan significantly more expensive than ever before.

So, will this bold shift help or hinder the Macan in Australia? And is this the country’s best all-electric SUV?

There’s only one way find out.

View full pricing & specs

Deep dive comparison

2021 Mazda CX-9 2024 Porsche Macan

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

There is no doubting the substance of the Porsche Macan Electric. Its ride, steering and poise make it a joy to drive on twisting roads, and it ticks the practicality boxes, too.

The only lingering question is whether enough people are ready to make the all-electric switch. Only then will we know if Porsche's Macan gamble has paid off.

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

Mazda CX-9 vs Porsche Macan What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Mazda CX-9 vs Porsche Macan
What's the difference?