The 2007 Mazda CX-9 comes in three models, each is available in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The suspension is tuned the same for each model with a small ride and handling change coming in the Grand Touring, which gets 20-inch wheels instead of the standard 18-inch wheels.
Sport ($29,035) comes with three-zone air conditioning; power windows, power door locks; remote/keyless entry, cruise control, telescope-tilt steering wheel; variable-speed wipers; rear-window wiper; six-way, manual adjusting driver's seat and AM/FM/CD.
Touring ($31,135) adds leather upholstery, power and heated front seats; heated outside mirrors and Bluetooth hands-free wireless technology for cell phones.
Grand Touring ($32,675) adds fancier interior trim, 20-inch wheels; high-intensity discharge headlights; rain-sensing wipers; memory for the driver's seat, and advanced keyless entry Smart Card.
Options: all-wheel drive ($1,200); crystal white paint ($200); power seat ($350); remote-engine start ($350); 6CD ($500); moonroof with upgrade Bose stereo ($1,760); touring assistance package with navigation system, Smart Card, rearview camera and power open-close rear hatch ($2,717); retractable cargo cover ($205); towing package ($450).
Safety features include electronic stability control; anti-lock brakes; air curtains and front-seat mounted air bags. Air curtains are low-pressure airbags that come down from the ceiling to cover the side windows (all three rows). The idea is to provide head protection in a side-impact crash. Studies and crash tests have shown such head protection can significantly improve the chance of surviving side-impact crashes, which are particularly deadly because there is so little metal to protect the occupants of the vehicle being struck. The front seats also have air bags mounted in them. These are designed to provide chest protection in a side-impact crash. Optional all-wheel drive adds a measure of driving safety in slippery conditions.