Christmas Bonus : Mazda launches the CX-9

Trust Ford Group Philippines to keep us motoring journalists on our toes – and to come up with the first and last say for the year. To open the year 2007, they launched their four new SUVs out onto a hungry buying public – in effect jumpstarting a year that promises to close as one of the best since the Asian financial crisis of 1997. To close the year, they have their sister company Mazda unleash a seven-seater crossover that’s quite simply a sight to behold. Launched at the Mazda Makati showroom last November 15, the downright stylish CX-9 successfully blends Mazda’s sporty driving spirit with the versatility of a seven-seater SUV.

The Mazda CX-9 is hard to miss. It deviates from the norm as it combines the stylishness inherent in every Mazda model with the versatility expected of SUVs and crossover vehicles. It’s a delightful mix, actually. With slanted headlamps and a steeply angled windscreen juxtaposed against bulging fenders, prominent 20-inch aluminum wheels and a dual chrome exhaust pipe up, it’s like having the best of both worlds in a single vehicle. Think tough guy who knows how to dress well. You get the drift.

The interiors don’t disappoint either. A smart mix of stylish hard plastics and the occasional tasteful chrome highlight exude an air of comfort – which is backed up by some pretty impressive specs, mind you. The CX-9 has a 2,875 mm wheelbase, that guarantees ample leg room in practically all the rows even as the second and third row seats can be easily folded in case additional room is needed for cargo. All-independent suspension, double door seals and sound-deadening foam then combine to reduce harshness and noise levels when inside the CX-9.

The Mazda CX-9 is powered by an all-new 3.7 liter V-6 engine. This impressive (at least on paper) engine is then mated to a 6-speed Activematic that promises some enjoyable driving experiences.

On the safety front, Mazda left few stones unturned. The CX9’s got ABS with traction control, Roll Stability Control and Dynamic Stability Control to add to the list of the standard safety features like driver and passenger airbags up front, side and curtain airbags in the rear, 3-point seatbelts all over and side impact beams. All these goodies undoubtedly contributed to the CX-9 being chosen as the 2008 Motor Trend Magazine Sport Utility of the Year.

Eric Malimban, AVP-Mazda Philippines, was understandably proud of their newest offering during the launch. “The Mazda CX-9 is a new generation SUV that breathes life to our Zoom-Zoom promise. Stylish, insightful and spirited, the Mazda CX-9 combines practicality with an awesome driving experience. It is a vehicle for those who want it all- style, power, precision, quality and safety,” he said.

The new Mazda CX-9 comes in stormy blue mica, radiant ebony and crystal pearl mica. Introductory price is a reasonable P2.599 million. Do check it out at your nearest Mazda showroom.