What made you decide to go up in size from the cx-5 too the cx-9? I'm trying to replace a 2008 RAV4 V6. The Mazdas are similar in acceleration. Exterior dimensions of the RAV4 and cx-5 are similar but interior volume is much smaller on the cx-5. Cx-9 and RAV4 interior volume are similar but cx-9 is 18 inches longer. Plus the cx-9 is more expensive.
My wife has an Acadia so we have a large family vehicle for the 7 and 11 daughters plus 70lb lab. But it's nice to have the space of the cx-9 so sometimes the family and dog can fit in the back. I also like the ability to toss my fatbike in the back in the winter with both wheels on instead of putting it on the rack out back and expose it to all the road salt spray. If they just made something sized in between like a cx-7