.... I*d rather have a limited number of features that are complete and work well than have a larger number of half-baked ones (like auto side mirrors which apparently don*t adjust with seat memory.)
It seems that the problem with the CX-9 is that Mazda has cut corners on the details in order to provide high-line features at a mass-market price. ...... It might be best at being a poor-man*s luxury car, but I*m not sure that*s much of a compliment.
I fully agree with the above ...and I am an overall pretty happy '17 CX-9 Signature owner.
I picked my CX-9 because i got a GREAT deal on it. It came down to having a new, loaded, non-luxury car for the price of a 3 yr old "certified" real luxury car.
Do i have any regrets? Not really, especially after i solved the poor AWD system performance in the snow with some good dedicated snow tires.
The car gets the job done and i enjoy driving it. Simple as that. With 3 little kids it is big enough for us, decent MPG, decent power and handles great for an SUV of this size. Interior is nice, yes, but some of the 'high end' features are half baked.
Biggest issue i have is seats having very limited adjustment options (especially passenger side), no cooled seats in 2017, no front parking sensors in 2017, seats are not too deep and lack some padding, memory feature is a joke (my 2007 Sienna has better seat memory features and seat comfort).... Leather is nice, but i see some poor stitching/fitment on the front passenger seat.
I installed Apple Car Play ($185 out of pocket and 1 hr of my time) so this took care of the basic infotainment system. I am happy now.
Of course, i always want more engine power, but the little 2.5T has very decent torque where it's needed the most. 50-60hp extra would be nice...but it will kill the MPG.
Bigger/better brakes will be also nice, but OEM setup is adequate for day to day driving. Just don't push the car too hard.
I have 27k miles on the car, and so far, no issues reported. Some suspension squeaks, likely some bushings will have to be replaced soon, but nothing really critical.
My cars is mostly serviced by me (oil changes, etc) but the couple of times i had to take it to the local dealer, the service was OK. Same experience i get at the Toyota or Ford dealers down the street. Nothing close to the service i get at the Lexus or Benz dealer, but the my Mazda also costs a lot less.
Long story short, in my opinion at least, if you want a true luxury car with all the right materials and all the bells and whistles.... spend the money and get a true luxury car. Do not buy the CX-9.
If you want a well built car, with great handling, decent size, good set of features (even if some are not fully baked) at a great price ... the CX-9 Signature is a pretty good buy, especially if you get a deal on it. You won't regret it. It's a fun and easy to drive daily car.