2020 Mazda CX-9 Sport

The CX-9 is Mazda's three-row family SUV, the one that competes with the likes of the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. It drives with a sporty feel that's rare in this class, with sharp steering and a composed ride that makes it genuinely enjoyable on back roads. Inside, the cabin is upscale for the segment, with quality materials and a clean layout, though the third row is tight for adults. Owners like the spacious, comfortable interior and the way it drives, even if some wish the dash felt more modern. The Sport is the one to pick if you want CX-9 capability without the extras, skipping the Touring's power liftgate and blind-spot monitoring. Its 2.5L I4 makes 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, routed through a six-speed automatic to the front wheels, and it returns 24 mpg combined. The Sport rides on 18-inch wheels and cloth seats, which keep weight down and give a slightly more compliant ride than the larger-rimmed trims.