The Perfect Used Three-Row SUV for Driving Enthusiasts With Families

A used three-row SUV that's truly fun to drive and handles family duties well may seem like a contradiction, but one standout model proves that you don't have to choose between fun and functionality. Its sporty suspension, responsive steering and ample power make this SUV stand out among typical family trucks. Every trip seems more exciting than comfortable.

However, it still provides the space a growing family needs, with spacious three-row seating and plenty of trunk space for trips, gear, or weekend errands. Inside, the cabin offers comfort, technology and practicality, making it suitable for both car seat removal and country road driving.

If you're looking for a used SUV that doesn't sacrifice driving fun for an adult-friendly package, this is it. It combines everyday usability with real driving dynamics, offering a rare combination of family-friendly versatility and enthusiast-level performance in one well-crafted package.

To provide you with the most current and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was obtained from various manufacturers' websites and other reputable sources, including the Environmental Protection Agency.

You can buy a 2023 Mazda CX-9 for under $30,000

If you're a driving enthusiast, then you already know that Mazda is one of the best brands on the market when it comes to driving engagement. This even extends to their larger models. The CX-9 was previously the brand's largest SUV, replaced by the CX-70 and CX-90, and is already available for the relatively new model year. much less than the original suggested retail price.

Average price of a used 2023 Mazda CX-9

TMazda isn't the most popular brand in North America, which is a pretty significant factor in the depreciation. While they don't lose value as quickly as brands like Dodge or Tesla, some models still drop in value dramatically. Another factor affecting the CX-9's value on the used car market is the fact that it's been replaced by a shiny new model. CX-90which reduces the appeal of the old SUV. While the 2023 CX-90 had a suggested retail price of $40,125 to $49,835 depending on trim level, used prices average $27,830.

The CX-9 comes in several different trim levels, some of which hold their value better than others. In our opinion, the Grand Touring represents the best value for money. The CX-9 comes with a ton of pretty upscale standard features, and the Grand Touring model builds heavily on them for not that much money. It comes with things like silver 20-inch wheels, power folding side mirrors, a 360-degree camera and a head-up display with traffic sign recognition.

Warranties and service

• Limited Warranty: Three years or 36,000 miles
• Power unit warranty: Five years or 60,000 miles
• Free scheduled maintenance: Nobody

Buying a 2023 model means you should still have some balance from the original warranty package. Mazda's offering is small, but enough to cover many components. The bumper and drivetrain warranty should be several years if you can find a model with low enough miles. Mazda doesn't offer free servicing, so make sure the model you're considering has been serviced regularly and by a reputable dealer.

According to authoritative sources, caring for your Mazda CX-9 shouldn't cost you an absurd amount of money. CarEdge says 10-year maintenance costs for a three-row SUV are about average for its class. RepairPal estimates you'll spend about $539 a year on maintenance.

This family SUV looks much sportier than any of its direct competitors.

Growing up usually means trading in your two-door coupe for something more practical. Luckily, brands like Mazda make this deal a little easier by offering driving dynamics that are much more engaging than you'd expect. The CX-9 is big and spacious, but it's still capable of delivering plenty of fun, bringing more smiles than any other three-row SUV.

2023 Mazda CX-9 Specifications

Most SUVs in this class opt for the V-6 engine, so choosing the Mazda was no small risk. inline-four turbocharged. However, this engine excels in terms of power, trailing its six-cylinder rivals. It is also capable of running on premium fuel, which increases power slightly to 250 horsepower and 320 Nm of torque. Every model comes standard with all-wheel drive and a well-calibrated six-speed automatic transmission.

The CX-9 may not win drag races, as its 0-60 time is average for the segment, but it offers enough power to feel fun. The turbo four also makes a relatively throaty noise when pushed hard, which is funny. However, the Mazda's best qualities only come into play when you take it on twisty roads. The Japanese brand is incredibly fast for its size. The steering feels exceptional, giving you that connection to the car that enthusiasts crave. The main downside to all this is that the suspension feels a little on the firm side.

Fuel economy

Despite having two fewer cylinders than many of its competitors, the CX-9's overall fuel economy is about average for its segment. Considering the fact that the Mazda keeps pace with its competitors in a straight line and feels like a much smaller car in corners, we're happy to make this trade-off. The SUV is much more efficient on the highway, and if you do a lot of long trips, you'll find it will give you extra mileage.

Every CX-9 comes with a fairly reasonable 19.5-gallon tank. According to the EPA, this means you'll be able to drive about 448 miles before you have to fill up again.

The 2023 CX-9 feels incredibly luxurious for under $30K

The CX-9 probably already looks like a pretty good buy, offering good performance and convenience at a reasonable price. Look inside and you'll see that its value proposition goes even deeper. In our opinion, Mazda has been ahead of the curve for some time, offering interiors that feel more upscale than the brand's core position in the market would suggest. The CX-9 demonstrates this perfectly.

Interior dimensions and comfort features

The CX-9's main drawback is interior space. It comes standard with three rows of seating, but the rear seats are quite cramped. They are best used for children. However, the second row is more than spacious enough to keep even the tallest passengers comfortable. Cargo capacity behind the third row isn't exceptional. However, fold the rearmost seats down and you get up to 38.2 cubic feet of usable space.

Mazda really wins when it comes to interior design, and the CX-9's cabin feels like something borrowed from a luxury brand. In addition to having one of the best-looking dashboard designs in the segment, the three-row Mazda is finished with upscale materials no matter which trim you choose. Depending on the trim you choose, better features are available, including tri-zone climate control with air filtration, Nappa leather upholstery, a power sunroof, and heated first- and second-row seats.

Infotainment & Technology

We really appreciate Mazda's approach to technology and screens.with the CX-9's standard 10.3-inch screen rising above the dash. Instead of feeling like the center of the cabin, it feels like an accent, which is exactly how screens in cars should be. The display is impressively clear and the system is easy to navigate, with a rotary dial on the center console helping you keep your attention on the road.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on every trim, but unfortunately they only work over a wired connection. In addition to a range of USB-C ports, some models also feature a wireless smartphone charging pad. Mazda Connected Services are also available, allowing you to use the MyMazda app to remotely check the status of your CX-9, as well as lock, unlock and start it. The standard audio system is fairly average, but some trims come with a pretty good 12-speaker Bose system instead.