2019 Nissan Pathfinder vs Mazda CX-9

What's the difference?

The Nissan Pathfinder is sort of like the Vegemite of the big-SUV world. It’s been around forever, and even though there are fancier things out there, it’s constantly on people’s shopping lists. And just like a jar of yeast-based goodness, it’s not to everybody’s tastes – but those that do buy them absolutely love them.

So, is the Pathfinder for you?

I tested the top-of-the-range Ti four-wheel-drive version with my family over a week and assessed its practicality, its value, its fuel economy and what it was like to drive.

The CX-9 is Mazda's big, SUV flagship and it has been updated with more cool tech, better safety features, better handling and real wood. Yup, you read that right: real wood. There's also been a price rise on this seven-seater.

You did know it was a seven-seater, right?  And not all seven-seat SUVs are the same. There are off-road capable ones which can be as uncomfortable as a tank on city streets. Then there are those that feel like giant, cushy lounge rooms that handle like a ship really and are just big cars so you better not take them off road. There are others which say they're seven-seaters but in reality those extra two seats in the third row are just for kids – and even then you'd only put your least favourite ones back there. So, what's the Mazda CX-9 then?

That's what this review is all about and by the end of it you'll know if this new Mazda CX-9 the right seven-seater for you.