The all-new Mazda CX-9 is set to make its official debut in Malaysia within six months and in anticipation of its arrival, Bermaz Motor, the official distributor of Mazda cars in Malaysia has given us a little sneak-peek of its flagship SUV.
The model previewed here is an imported unit bearing Australian specifications. While it might differ from the specifications we’ll be getting here, when the CX-9 arrives in Malaysia, it is expected to be fully imported from Japan, although Bermaz is considering the possibility of local assembly (CKD).
In terms of its overall looks, the new CX-9 features Mazda’s latest KODO design language that portrays a more premium image of the SUV.
At 5075mm long, the CX-9 is 21mm shorter than the model it replaces but it is now wider at 1969mm and 1,747mm in height. The new CX-9 is also has 55mm longer wheelbase than its predecessors, benefiting passenger leg room as well as entry to and exit from the rear. The 3 row seating allows for 7 passengers to sit comfortably.
The interior boasts higher-quality materials and plenty of infotainment features. This includes the MZD Connect 8-inch touch screen display, 12-Speaker Bose Surround Sound System, new Mazda Active Driving Display (Head-Up Display), 4 USB ports and Bluetooth hands free connectivity.
Other highlights include power sunroof, remote operated power tailgate, LED headlights, three zone climate control, cruise control, electronic parking brake and engine start/stop button.
The new CX-9 is powered by a naturally aspirated SkyActiv-G 2.5-litre turbocharged engine replacing the previous 3.7-litre V6. It delivers 228hp from 5000rpm complemented by a whopping 420Nm of torque from 2000rpm. Although there is a slight loss of horsepower (-46hp), the amount of torque has been increased (+56Nm). Power is sent either to the front wheels or all-wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The downsized engine has significantly reduced its overall weight. The 2WD model now weigh 1858kg – a loss of 108kg while the 4WD model now weigh 1924kg, 139kg lighter than its predecessors. The smaller 4-cylinder engine and reduced weight should help boost fuel economy although Mazda didn’t reveal its official fuel consumption figures.
The entire car rides on the same Skyactiv architecture as the CX-5 and Mazda6, meaning a multi-link rear suspension has been paired with MacPherson struts up front.
In terms of safety, the new CX-9 has been crashed tested for the first time by the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) earning a 5 star safety rating. Besides 6 airbags, the CX-9 now comes equipped with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Smart City Brake Support (SCBS), Traction Control System (TCS), Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), ISOFIX child seats as a standard feature.
Bermaz Motor has yet to confirm its official price yet but it is expected to retail below RM300k.
