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2023 Mazda CX-9: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest 2023 Mazda CX-9 change is the loss of the Sport trim, which makes Touring the new entry trim. Touring also gains several formerly packaged comfort features, while the powertrain and most of the lineup carry over.
About the 2023 Mazda CX-9
2nd generation (2016-2023), final year before the U.S. market switched to the CX-90.
Mazda positioned the CX-9 as a three-row family crossover for shoppers who wanted more than just space. Its appeal was the mix of standard AWD, strong turbo power, a quieter and more upscale cabin than many mainstream rivals, and handling that felt more responsive than larger, softer three-row SUVs. It was aimed at families who wanted everyday practicality and strong safety tech, but cared just as much about interior design and how the vehicle felt from behind the wheel.
For 2023, Touring serves as a well-equipped starting point with six seats, second-row captain’s chairs, leather-trimmed seating, a moonroof, and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. Carbon Edition adds distinctive cabin details, while Grand Touring focuses on useful technology such as a 360-degree camera, head-up display, and navigation. Signature tops the range with quilted Nappa leather, rosewood trim, and second-row captain’s chairs separated by a center console.
What changed, by category
Styling
Touring has standard LED fog lights and a power moonroof for 2023. Roof rails are no longer standard on Carbon Edition, Grand Touring, Signature, or Touring Plus.
Tech
Touring gains standard wireless phone charging as part of its expanded equipment. Satellite radio is no longer standard on Touring Plus.
2023 Mazda CX-9 specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, SKYACTIV-G, Turbo, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, SKYACTIV-G, Turbo, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, SKYACTIV-G, Turbo, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, SKYACTIV-G, Turbo, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, SKYACTIV-G, Turbo, 2.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd SKYACTIV-Drive Sport w/Manual Mode | Automatic, 6-Spd SKYACTIV-Drive Sport w/Manual Mode | Automatic, 6-Spd SKYACTIV-Drive Sport w/Manual Mode | Automatic, 6-Spd SKYACTIV-Drive Sport w/Manual Mode | Automatic, 6-Spd SKYACTIV-Drive Sport w/Manual Mode |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 20 mpg | 20 mpg | 20 mpg | 20 mpg | 20 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 26 mpg | 26 mpg | 26 mpg | 26 mpg | 26 mpg |
| Horsepower | 227 hp | 227 hp | 227 hp | 227 hp | 227 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3500 lb | 3500 lb | 3500 lb | 3500 lb | 3500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 71.2 cu-ft | 71.2 cu-ft | 71.2 cu-ft | 71.2 cu-ft | 71.2 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 29.7 in | 29.7 in | 29.7 in | 29.7 in | 29.7 in |
| Seats | 6 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Headlights | |||||
| Alarm System | |||||
| Automatic High Beams | |||||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||||
| Front & Rear Parking Sensors | |||||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||||
| Rear Parking Sensors | |||||
| Rear View Camera | |||||
| 360 Camera | |||||
| Alloy Wheels | |||||
| Fog Lights | |||||
| LED Headlights | |||||
| Power Moonroof | |||||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | |||||
| Rear Spoiler | |||||
| Roof Rails | |||||
| Head-Up Display | |||||
| Navigation System | |||||
| Premium Audio | |||||
| Satellite Radio | |||||
| Smartphone Interface | |||||
| Aluminum Interior Trim | |||||
| Heated Front Seats | |||||
| Heated Rear Seats | |||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | |||||
| Leather Seats | |||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | |||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||||
| Remote Start | |||||
| Third Row Seat | |||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | |||||
| Wood Interior Trim | |||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest difference between the 2023 and 2022 Mazda CX-9?
The biggest difference is that Mazda dropped the Sport trim for 2023, making Touring the new entry point. Touring also receives second-row captain’s chairs, a power moonroof, LED fog lights, and wireless phone charging as standard equipment.
How many seats does the 2023 Mazda CX-9 Touring have?
The 2023 Mazda CX-9 Touring has six seats. Its standard second-row captain’s chairs replace the prior seven-seat bench layout and provide slide-and-tilt access to the third row.
Did the 2023 Mazda CX-9 get a new engine or drivetrain?
No, the 2023 Mazda CX-9 keeps the turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, six-speed automatic transmission, and standard all-wheel drive used for 2022.
Is 2023 the final model year of the Mazda CX-9?
Yes, 2023 is the final model year of the CX-9 in the U.S. Mazda discontinued it after this model year as the CX-90 took its place in the lineup.
2023 Mazda CX-9 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2023 Mazda CX-9.
4.2
2023 Mazda CX-9
(112 reviews)
“But the CX9 Now!!! I love mine and they're not being made anymore!!! My favorite car in a long time. Absolutely loved the red color of my prior CX9!!!!”
“The rear hatch clearance is not good! Hit my head many times. And I am only 5'11" tall. The overall camera positions shown need improvement. The warning sounds need improvement, especially for backing up and pedestrians. Also, the air bag system doesn't work for passengers when you use a needed seat cushion.”