2017 Mazda CX-9 Azami new car review

1. What is it?

The CX-9 Azami is the range-topping variant of Mazda's all-new seven-seat SUV, the biggest car in its range.

It is packed with everything the Japanese brand can throw at it, in terms of the latest safety equipment, connectivity and luxury appointments, which pushes it towards the premium territory generally occupied by European brands.

2. How much does it cost and what do you get?

Like all model grades in the new CX-9 line-up, the Azami is available in either two-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations and starts at $59,390 (plus on-road costs) for the front-wheel drive model or $63,390 (plus on-roads) for the all-wheel drive variant we're testing here.

It sits at the pinnacle of the range by virtue of the addition of extra safety features above the GT on which it shares its basic specifications. Included among those features are up-to-the-minute electronic driver aids such as radar cruise control with stop-and-go (which automatically keeps a safe distance behind the car in front at highway speeds and can brake and accelerate autonomously in heavy traffic) as well as lane keeping assistance and lane departure warning, adaptive LED headlights and a driver attention alert.

Like the GT, it rides on 20-inch alloys, the cabin is trimmed in leather, it has a powered tailgate and electronic sunroof and there's a 7.0-inch touchscreen that has sat nav, Bluetooth, digital radio, in-built apps such as Pandora and Stitcher and a high-grade Bose audio system with 12 speakers.

3. What's under the bonnet?

The second-generation CX-9 has traded the previous model's thirsty large-capacity V6 for a smaller 2.5-litre turbo charged four cylinder engine - the first turbo engine to be developed by Mazda under its efficiency-focused SkyActiv mantra.

While it has slightly less peak power than before, generating 170kW at 5000rpm, it produces more torque across a wider range of revs, offering its maximum pulling power of 420Nm from just 2000rpm.

The most important number - for fuel-conscious families at least - is its claimed average consumption of 8.8L/100km (8.4L/100km if you choose the front-wheel drive option), which is almost 25 percent better than before.

4. What's it like to drive?

Mazda has carved a unique position among its Japanese rivals as a genuine alternative to premium European rivals without diluting its pragmatic and everyday appeal.

The CX-9 Azami is a good reflection of that, and solid proof that Mazda has found its mojo when it comes to balancing comfort with the kind of dynamics that live up to its Zoom-Zoom tagline.

The turbo charged engine, first of all, is smooth and linear in the way it delivers its power, with little in the way of low-rev turbo lag as it builds into a strong mid-range that helps move the CX-9's mass swiftly away from the lights and gently at highway speeds.

Front-wheel drive models we've driven can be susceptible to torque steer (where the steering wheel pulls at your hands under heavy acceleration) if you plant the accelerator in the lower gears, but the all-wheel drive system in our test car almost eliminates that bug bear as it sends more torque to the rear axle for better traction.

The engine is quiet too when driven leisurely, and is nicely calibrated with the six-speed automatic transmission.

As for how it rides, the 20-inch wheels are heavy and can crash through big bumps, but in all situations the CX-9 feels well sorted with good compliance, well weighted steering and a sure-footed stance on the road.

5. What's it like inside?

As you'd expect from a range-topping model, there is a lot to like about the Azami from its comfy leather-clad chairs, the commanding driving position and the sheer sense of space offered within the seven-seat cabin.

The optional stone-coloured trim adds to that airy feeling by adding a degree of light to the otherwise mostly dark, but well-presented, cabin.

Otherwise, the new-generation CX-9 evolves Mazda's interior design with a more flowing dynamic to the dashboard that sees the tablet-style screen floating on top and accessed (when on the move at least) by a rotary controller in the middle of the centre console, where there is also good small item storage and USB and AUX power outlets.

As for overall space, the centre console divides those in the front to offer a more car-like ambience while second-row passengers have plenty of leg and headroom, as well as air conditioning vents.

The third row is relatively easy to access thanks to flip-and-folding chairs in the middle and can accommodate two small adults on short trips, but is best suited for small children. And while they get cupholders and good storage options, they miss out on ventilation.

6 . Is it safe?

As mentioned previously, the Azami's unique position at the top of the CX-9 range revolves around its added safety features.

But all CX-9 models have a five-star crash rating with six airbags covering all outboard occupants.

7. Would I buy it?

The second-generation CX-9 has elevated itself immediately to be among the class leading family SUVs, thanks to solid foundations that make it both enjoyable and effortless to drive and safe and spacious for the whole family.

While it misses out on a diesel engine option that most rivals offer, Mazda's turbo four is strong and efficient enough and is well mated to the transmission, particularly in all-wheel drive form where it reduces the tendency to tug at the wheel under acceleration.

The Azami, in particular, isn't cheap and crosses over into genuine luxury car territory, but it backs it up with a premium ambience within the cabin and all the latest gizmos and gadgets.

8. What else should I consider?

If seven seats is your first priority then Kia's Sorento is a great alternative, with its range-topping GT-Line AWD undercutting the Azami by around $5k. Otherwise, the flagship Hyundai Santa Fe SR (from $64,250) and Toyota Kluger Grande AWD (from $68,046) are starting to show their age but still worthy options.

You could also be a bit more adventurous and go for a genuine four-wheel drive like the latest range of ute-based wagons, such as the Ford Everest, Holden Trailblazer, Toyota Fortuner, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport or Nissan Pathfinder. Or, if you're willing to compromise on equipment for a European badge, it's not that far to stretch into something like the new Land Rover Discovery (from $69,990) or a Jaguar F-Pace (from $73,340).

2017 Mazda CX-9 Azami price and specifications

Price: From $63,390 plus on-road costs

Engine: 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol

Power: 170kW at 5000rpm

Torque: 420Nm at 2000rpm

Transmission: six-speed automatic, all-wheel drive

Fuel use: 8.8L/100km

- For more information visit our Mazda showroom page