The 2019 Mazda CX-9 Signature represents the pinnacle of Mazda’s three-row SUV lineup, delivering an exceptional blend of upscale comfort, advanced safety features, and dynamic driving performance that sets it apart from traditional family haulers. This premium SUV successfully bridges the gap between mainstream and luxury vehicles, offering families a sophisticated transportation solution without the luxury car price tag.
Powerful and Efficient Turbocharged Performance
At the heart of the CX-9 Signature lies a sophisticated 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 227 horsepower with regular fuel or 250 horsepower when using premium gasoline, paired with 310 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain configuration enables the SUV to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in approximately 7.1 seconds, delivering surprisingly athletic performance for a three-row family vehicle.
The engine connects to a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive system featuring G-Vectoring Control technology. This innovative system automatically adjusts power distribution during cornering to enhance stability and reduce the need for steering corrections, making the CX-9 Signature feel more agile and responsive than typical vehicles in its class.
Fuel Economy Performance
EPA fuel economy ratings for the 2019 CX-9 Signature are 20 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined, which places it competitively within the three-row SUV segment. Real-world testing has confirmed these estimates, with many drivers achieving the combined rating during mixed driving conditions.
Luxurious Interior Design and Premium Materials
Signature-Level Appointments
The Signature trim elevates the CX-9’s interior with Auburn Nappa leather seating surfaces, genuine Santos rosewood inlays, and distinctive aluminum trim accents. The cabin design philosophy emphasizes clean lines and premium materials that rival offerings from established luxury brands, creating an environment that feels both sophisticated and welcoming.
Front passengers enjoy heated and ventilated seats with power adjustments, while second-row occupants benefit from heated seating surfaces. The driver’s seat includes memory settings, though some reviewers note that certain convenience features like auto-adjusting exterior mirrors don’t integrate with the seat memory system.
Three-Row Seating Configuration
The CX-9 Signature accommodates up to seven passengers across three rows, though the third row is better suited for children rather than adults due to limited headroom and legroom. The second row provides 39.4 inches of legroom, while the third row offers 29.7 inches. Second-row seats feature easy-access functionality for reaching the third row, and the head restraints automatically lower when folding the seats.
Advanced Safety and Technology Features
Government Safety Ratings
The 2019 Mazda CX-9 earned the highest five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and received recognition as an IIHS Top Safety Pick. These ratings reflect the vehicle’s robust safety performance across all major crash test categories.
Standard safety technologies include Smart Brake Support (automatic emergency braking), blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and a comprehensive suite of airbags. Available advanced features encompass lane departure warning, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, and a 360-degree surround-view camera system.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Signature trim includes an 8-inch touchscreen display with Mazda Connect infotainment system, navigation, and smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which became standard on Touring and higher trims for 2019. The system can be controlled via touchscreen, rotary dial, or voice commands, though some users find the interface less intuitive than competitor systems.
Audio entertainment comes through a premium 12-speaker Bose Center point 2 sound system with SiriusXM satellite radio capability.
Cargo Space and Practical Considerations
Cargo capacity measures 14.4 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 38.2 cubic feet with the third row folded, and reaching a maximum of 71.2 cubic feet with both rear rows down. While these figures are among the smaller offerings in the three-row segment, the CX-9 includes thoughtful storage solutions like a hidden compartment beneath the cargo floor and strategically placed power outlets.
Key Specifications Data Table
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder |
| Horsepower | 227 hp (Regular) / 250 hp (Premium) |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain | Standard All-Wheel Drive |
| Seating Capacity | 7 Passengers |
| Cargo Space | 14.4 – 71.2 cubic feet |
| Fuel Economy | 20 City / 26 Highway / 23 Combined MPG |
| Safety Rating | 5-Star NHTSA / IIHS Top Safety Pick |
| Starting MSRP | $45,365 |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 pounds |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 2019 Mazda CX-9 Signature worth the premium over lower trims?
A: The Signature trim offers genuine luxury materials, standard AWD, and exclusive design elements that justify the price for buyers seeking premium appointments in a family SUV.
Q: How does cargo space compare to competitors?
A: The CX-9 offers less cargo space than rivals like the Honda Pilot or Chevrolet Traverse, but provides superior driving dynamics and interior quality.
Q: What’s the real-world fuel economy?
A: Most owners report achieving EPA estimates of around 23 mpg combined with mixed city and highway driving conditions.
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