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Mazda CX-9 Azami LE AWD: Hands-on review

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Mazda CX-9 Azami LE Image: Getty

Would you believe it isn't European?

As you cruise about town this week, take note of how many SUVs there are on the road. They dominate sales in Australia. These five and seven-seaters are being adopted by families in droves, moving youngsters and friends around and traversing cities and suburbia. Some people will take them off-road, but most will not.

We got our hands on the Mazda CX-9 Azami LE and the truth is that it is a very good car – class-leading even – but you wouldn't take it off-road. It has been luxuriously styled in line with its European competitors, which means that it's probably a bit too nice to take off-road. I wouldn't, even though it has AWD and the ability to tackle it.

Around town, it drives tremendously. The ride is plush and it floats over bumps, potholes and rough road in general with ease. This is really where the CX-9 is in its element and if you look at Mazda's material and brochures, you won't see a dirt road anywhere.

It has tons of tech, which makes operating this large machine in a city environment a breeze. This includes features such as a 360-view monitor, blind spot monitoring, emergency brake assist, traffic sign recognition, rear cross traffic alert and front and rear parking sensors, just to name a few.

The 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol engine and 6-speed automatic combination has enough "Zoom Zoom" to get you from A to B, and you will be able to overtake if you put your foot down. But there's no ignoring that the S in SUV isn't the goal with the CX-9. Even with a sport mode option included, there is no avoiding the two-tonne mass.

Mazda CX-9 Azami LE tail lights Image: Getty

The Skyactiv fuel-efficient engine produces 170kW and 420Nm – the latter of which we will touch on shortly. We saw a fuel economy low of 10.5L/100km in our time with the Mazda CX-9, which is more in line with the figure stated for urban driving. However, we must concede that we'd need to do more highway driving to hit the brochure figures.

The family are going to have a great time travelling around in the CX-9 Azami LE. There is ample legroom in the second row, and at just over 6 foot, I was more than comfortable and had plenty of space between my knees and the driver's seat (set in my driving position).

Along with being able to stretch out, the kids also get two USB points, cup holders, door storage, heated seats and they can even have their own climate controls in the back. Is it starting to sound like a limousine to anyone else?

ISOFix mounting points are also fitted for child seat fastening and sun shades have been included, which can be raised or lowered by sleepy kids.

Things get a bit tighter in the third row. Head and knee room were at a premium (this is the case in most third rows), but there was enough space to be comfortable on short trips. I wouldn't want to be back there on long trips, but kids should be fine.

The best thing about the third row, though, is that it folds flat and not into the sides of the vehicle. The result? Being able to use all 810 litres of storage space, which is pretty easy to get to with an auto-opening and closing boot door.

It's also well appointed. We were in the Azami LE with "Chroma Brown" Nappa leather seats, which were really comfortable. You also get wood accents around parts of the dash and armrests, while all the buttons and dials are well thought out and placed. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are included in the CX-9 too. There's also:

  • Push button start
  • Dual climate control in the front
  • Heated and ventilated seats
  • 2 USB points
  • AUX connector
  • MicroSD reader
  • Electric seat adjustment
  • Telescopic steering adjustment
  • Steering wheel warmer for winter
  • Engine stop/start technology (i-Stop)
  • Bose audio system
  • Head up display

The interior is one that you would expect in a more expensive car originating from Bavaria, Stuttgart or Ingolstadt.

interior of Mazda CX-9 Azami LE Image: Getty

If you're looking to purchase the Mazda CX-9 to use with a caravan or boat, you will need to crack out the calculator and do your sums. Although the vehicle produces a considerable 420Nms of torque, the CX-9 Azami LE has a 2,000kg braked towing capacity, so factor this in if you plan on doing a lot of towing.

Mazda CX-9 Azami LE capped price servicing schedule

$339

Interval Kms (or next 12 months)Price
10,000 kms
20,000 kms$382
30,000 kms$339
40,000 kms$382
50,000 kms$339

The Mazda CX-9 Azami LE review verdict

You really need to search hard to find fault with the CX-9. It's up there with the best in its class, if not edging out the competition. Sitting in the driver's seat, you would be forgiven for expecting this Mazda to cost six figures.

If you are after something with a bit of power, you might want to check out the Holden Acadia, but if you are after something with a bit more luxury and $68,232 (before options and on-road costs) is within your budget for a family seven seater, I can't see why you wouldn't buy it.

Compare some options to finance a Mazda CX-9 Azami LE AWD

1 - 20 of 20
Name Interest Rate (p.a.) Comp. Rate (p.a.) Application Fee Monthly Fee Monthly Repayment
IMB New Car Loan
IMB logo
Fixed1 - 7 Years $2,000 - $125,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
6.24%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
6.59%
Application Fee
$274.78
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
Go to siteMore Info
You'll receive a fixed rate of 6.24% p.a.
A low minimum borrowing amount of $2,000 that you can use to purchase a new car or one that's up to two years old.
OurMoneyMarket New Car Loan
OurMoneyMarket logo
Fixed1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $75,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
6.57%
to 18.99%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
7.19%
to 21.78%
Application Fee
$250
min.
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
Go to siteMore Info
Simplify New Car Loan
Simplify Finance logo
Fixed1 - 7 Years $10,000 - $300,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
6.19%
to 18%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
6.6%
to 23%
Application Fee
$395
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
Go to siteMore Info
loans.com.au - New - Variable Rate Special
loans.com.au logo
Variable3 - 7 Years $5,000 - $150,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
6.24%
to 7.74%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
7.36%
to 8.85%
Application Fee
$400
Monthly Fee
$8
Monthly Repayment
Go to siteMore Info
Stratton Finance New Car Loan
Stratton Finance logo
Fixed1 - 7 Years $10,000 - $300,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
6.52%
to 18%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
6.95%
to 23%
Application Fee
$395
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
Go to siteMore Info
You'll receive a fixed rate from 6.52% p.a. depending on the lender you are approved with.
Apply for up to $300,000 and use cash or trade in a vehicle to use as a deposit. Optional balloon payment available.
RACV New Car Loans
RACV logo
Fixed1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $150,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
7.29%
to 16.99%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
8%
to 17.77%
Application Fee
$499
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
Go to siteMore Info
You'll receive a fixed rate from 7.29% p.a.
A larger loan of $5,000 or more to help you buy a new or used car. 5-hour pre approval available and no ongoing fees.
OurMoneyMarket Used Car Loan - No Vehicle Age Limit
OurMoneyMarket logo
Fixed1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $75,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
6.57%
to 18.99%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
7.19%
to 21.78%
Application Fee
$250
min.
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
Go to siteMore Info
Credit Concierge New Car Loan
Credit Concierge logo
Fixed1 - 7 Years $10,000 - $100,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
6.29%
to 16.45%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
7.41%
to 17.91%
Application Fee
$553
Monthly Fee
$10
Monthly Repayment
More Info
Simplify Used Car Loan
Simplify Finance logo
Fixed1 - 7 Years $10,000 - $300,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
6.19%
to 18%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
6.6%
to 23%
Application Fee
$395
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
Go to siteMore Info
Stratton Finance Used Car Loan
Stratton Finance logo
Fixed1 - 7 Years $10,000 - $300,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
6.52%
to 18%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
6.95%
to 23%
Application Fee
$395
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
Go to siteMore Info
You'll receive a fixed rate loan from 6.52% p.a. with a comparison rate of 6.95% p.a.
A used car loan of up to $300,000 with quick approval times and balloon payment options.
loans.com.au - Variable Rate Used Car < 5 years
loans.com.au logo
Variable3 - 7 Years $5,000 - $150,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
7.74%
to 7.74%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
8.85%
to 8.99%
Application Fee
$400
Monthly Fee
$8
Monthly Repayment
Go to siteMore Info
Credit Concierge Used Car Loan
Credit Concierge logo
Fixed1 - 7 Years $10,000 - $1,000,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
6.8%
to 17.45%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
7.56%
to 18.91%
Application Fee
$553
Monthly Fee
$10
Monthly Repayment
More Info
RACV Used Car Loans
RACV logo
Fixed1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $150,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
8.49%
to 16.99%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
9.21%
to 17.77%
Application Fee
$499
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
Go to siteMore Info
You'll receive a fixed rate from 8.49% p.a.
Benefit from no ongoing fees, 5-hour approval and a 21-day satisfaction guarantee. Interest rate discounts for members.
Verified Lending Used Car Loan
Verified Lending logo
Fixed1 - 7 Years $10,000 - $200,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
7.1%
to 18.99%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
8.06%
to 22.99%
Application Fee
$395
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
More Info
NRMA New Car Loan
NRMA logo
Fixed1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $130,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
7.29%
to 16.99%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
8%
to 17.77%
Application Fee
$499
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
More Info
Note: Take out a loan for an eligible electric vehicle and receive a 1.5% discount on your personalised interest rate (interest rates start from 5.79% p.a. and comparison rates from 6.49% p.a.)
NRMA Used Car Loan
NRMA logo
Fixed1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $130,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
8.49%
to 16.99%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
9.21%
to 17.77%
Application Fee
$499
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
More Info
You'll receive a fixed rate from 8.49% p.a.
Finance a used car with NRMA and benefit from a fixed rate term and no monthly fees. Pre-approval available within 5 business hours.
loans.com.au - Fixed Rate Used Car < 3 years
loans.com.au logo
Fixed3 - 7 Years $5,000 - $150,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
7.59%
to 8.79%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
8.7%
to 10.04%
Application Fee
$400
Monthly Fee
$8
Monthly Repayment
Go to siteMore Info
ING Personal Loan
ING logo
Fixed2 - 7 Years $5,000 - $60,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
6.89%
to 18.99%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
7.1%
to 19.23%
Application Fee
$150
Monthly Fee
$0
Monthly Repayment
More Info
You'll receive a fixed rate of 6.89% p.a.
Benefit from no ongoing fees, no early repayment fees and flexible loan terms on amounts up to $60,000.
NAB Personal Loan Unsecured Fixed
NAB logo
Fixed1 - 7 Years $5,000 - $55,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
8.49%
to 20.49%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
9.54%
to 21.49%
Application Fee
$250
Monthly Fee
$10
Monthly Repayment
More Info
You'll receive a fixed rate between 8.49% p.a. and p.a. (9.54% p.a. to p.a. comparison rate) based on your risk profile
Borrow from $5,000 to $55,000, with 1 to 7 year loan terms available. This loan comes with no fees for extra repayments and no early exit fees.
Latitude Variable Rate Personal Loan
Latitude Financial Services logo
Variable2 - 7 Years $5,000 - $70,000
Interest Rate (p.a.)
9.49%
to 29.99%
Comp. Rate (p.a.)
10.93%
to 31.83%
Application Fee
$395
Monthly Fee
$13
Monthly Repayment
Go to siteMore Info
Special Finder offer: Establishment fee waived (save $395) for approved personal loan applications submitted through Finder. T&C’s apply. Offer must be taken up through Finder and may be withdrawn at Latitude’s discretion.
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Compare car insurance side-by-side and get quotes

Product FCI Roadside assistance Accidental damage Storm Choice of repairer Agreed or Market Value
Youi Comprehensive
Finder Award
Youi Comprehensive
Optional
Agreed or Market
Summary: One of the only insurers to automatically include roadside assistance. It also won 12 out of the 22 categories in Finder's 2024 customer satisfaction awards.

Winner of 12 out of the 22 categories in Finder's 2024 customer satisfaction awards. Yes, that many.
Budget Direct Comprehensive
Finder Award
Budget Direct Comprehensive
Optional
Optional
Agreed or Market
Summary: The 2024 winner of our Best Value Car Insurance award. It's cheaper than most, plus you can lower costs by adding age restrictions.

⭐ Current offer: 15% off your first year's premium when you take out a policy online. T&Cs apply.

Who it might be good for: Anyone who wants a good value policy.
Qantas Comprehensive
Qantas Comprehensive
Optional
Optional
Agreed or Market
Summary: You need car insurance so why not get one that lets you earn Qantas Points? It's good value too (it's underwritten by the same insurer as Budget Direct).

⭐ Current offer: Earn up to 40,000 Qantas Points with every car insured by 29 January. Plus save 15% on your 1st year’s premium when you purchase online. T&Cs apply.

Who it might be good for: People who want more bang for their buck with Qantas Points.
Youi Comprehensive
Finder Award
Youi Comprehensive
Optional
Agreed or Market
Summary: One of the only insurers to automatically include roadside assistance. It also won 12 out of the 22 categories in Finder's 2024 customer satisfaction awards.

Winner of 12 out of the 22 categories in Finder's 2024 customer satisfaction awards. Yes, that many.
ALDI Comprehensive
ALDI Comprehensive
Agreed
Summary: ALDI's comprehensive insurance policy covers your car for an agreed value and a variety of policy benefits.

Who it might be good for: Ideal for those seeking competitive coverage limits, though other products may have higher limits.
Huddle Black Comprehensive
Huddle Black Comprehensive
Agreed or Market
Summary: This goes further than most insurers. You get up to 2k for stolen keys, roadside assistance and rental car excess cover (for car rentals in Australia).

Who it might be good for: Those who want top cover for their car.
QBE Comprehensive
Green Company
QBE Comprehensive
Optional
Agreed or Market
Summary: Our best-rated Car Insurer for Customer Satisfaction in 2021/2022 and Green Insurer for the last 3 years.

⭐ Current offer: Save $75 when you purchase a new comprehensive policy online. T&Cs apply.

Who it might be good for: Those who want a trustworthy insurer and more cover than other brands, such as 3-year new car replacement (e.g. they'll give you money for a new car for up to 3 years if yours is written off).
Australia Post Comprehensive
Australia Post Comprehensive
Optional
Agreed or Market
Summary: Covers a little more than other insurers. You don’t need to pay an excess for windscreen repairs and cover applies to anyone who uses your car.

⭐ Current offer: Get $75 off your first year's comprehensive car insurance premium when you buy online. T&Cs apply.

Who it might be good for: Multiple people using one car.
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