Mazda Australia has provided some updates to its largest SUV, with the introduction of the 2019 CX-9. It gains a range of technology improvements and welcomes a new top-line variant called the Azami LE.
Five variants are now available for the large SUV buyer, ranging from the Sport, Touring, GT, Azami, and new Azami LE. All continue to be powered by a 2.5-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine that produces 170kW and 420Nm, matched to a six-speed automatic (see our previous review and video for more on how it performs). Both front- and all-wheel drive versions are available for each variant (except the LE, AWD only).
Firstly, what’s the Azami LE all about? Well, it’s positioned as a premium offering that promises to set a new standard for affordable luxury. This is in response to customer demand for the high-grade CX-9s so far, Mazda says.
It’s offered with a unique colour palette with rich and genuine materials inside, including deep red, Chroma brown Nappa leather, real wood veneers, and elegant LED ambient lighting. There’s also a cleaner overhead console design and handcrafted stitching for the leather-wrapped steering wheel.
In other areas of the range, all models now come standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (first Mazda SUV to be offered with these), as well as a comprehensive package of i-ActivSense safety technologies. The i-ActivSense suite includes things such as radar cruise control with stop & go, autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane-keep assist, traffic sign recognition, and auto high-beam control. A rear-view camera and rear cross-traffic alert is also standard.
Mazda has applied some revisions to the underpinnings for a smooth ride, with changes to the suspension and steering, lower-friction dampers and recalibrated springs, with urethane top mounts for the rear end. There’s also a redesigned steering knuckle and ball joint that promises a more neutral feel. As a result, Mazda says noise, vibration and harshness levels (NVH) are improved.
“This update for Mazda CX-9 adds a new level of refinement to an already well-equipped and sophisticated vehicle, with the SUV gaining more standard safety and convenience features to further lift its standing in the class,” said Vinesh Bhindi, Mazda Australia MD. “Since its 2016 launch, Mazda CX-9 sales have always skewed to high-grade AWD variants, so we added Azami LE to give those looking for luxury even greater choice in the range.”
Mazda Australia is anticipating a healthy growth in sales with the launch of the updated range. The new model is on sale now with prices starting from the following (excluding on-road costs):
2019 CX-9 Sport FWD: $44,990
2019 CX-9 Sport AWD: $48,990
2019 CX-9 Touring FWD: $51,390
2019 CX-9 Touring AWD: $55,390
2019 CX-9 GT FWD: $59,390
2019 CX-9 GT AWD: $63,390
2019 CX-9 Azami FWD: $60,990
2019 CX-9 Azami AWD: $64,990
2019 CX-9 Azami LE AWD: $66,490
