Shopping confusion

[fatgroundhog]

Howdy Mazda community,
We're considering the CX-9 (GT likely) as our next people-mover. With the three lil' ones, we've got a long list of "needs"...but piecing together the options online, using the brochure, and other car sites has our heads spinning. A few questions:

1. Power lift gate--momma wants it, but looks like we are forced to buy an expensive Bose system, etc, in order to get it. True? Or can the dealer give us this without the unwanted add ons?
2. Tow package--probably gonna get the AWD which is equipped for towing except for the hitch. Is the hitch a good deal from the dealer or do we go aftermarket?
3. Any chance I can get 18" wheels instead of the 20"s from the dealer? Or is there demand in the community to swap?
4. A dealer mentioned there is a spectrum of RES--from about $800 to $2K. Any intel on this?

We're stationed overseas now so we're limited in our research from here. Thanks!

 

[ceric]

>> 1. Power lift gate--momma wants it, but looks like we are forced to buy an expensive Bose system, etc, in order to get it. True? Or can the dealer give us this without the unwanted add ons?
For 2011, Power Liftgate is a separate option of GT. No need for Bose package or else.

>> 2. Tow package--probably gonna get the AWD which is equipped for towing except for the hitch. Is the hitch a good deal from the dealer or do we go aftermarket?
OE Hitch is 1 1/4" opening. It is better integrated into the bumper. Aftermarket hitch is 2" opening, and sits below the bumper. OE hitch is more than $250 typically.
Aftermarket one can be had for $150 or less.

>> 3. Any chance I can get 18" wheels instead of the 20"s from the dealer? Or is there demand in the community to swap?
You want to swap your 20" wheels for 18"? I am sure that will not be a problem 'cause many want to go the other way...

>> 4. A dealer mentioned there is a spectrum of RES--from about $800 to $2K. Any intel on this?
What the dealer meant is probably if you let them install an aftermarket RES for you. The price and quality vary.
See a separate thread.

A rule of thumb. If you don't need the dealer to do it, don't. They are usually more expensive. Get the parts or
accessories, and DIY. Most stuff are easy to install if you can handle a wrench or screw driver.

 

[sabre]

Do what I did. Buy the Touring fully loaded. You get the power liftgate, 18" wheels (which has a nice ride) and the tow package. If you want RES you lose the moonroof. Which do you want? You get the Bose, chrome step bump, rear view camera and the same engine.

I wanted the GT but the salesman sold me on the touring instead. The differences were not what I wanted. I didnt need the bling of 20" rims, chrome handles, xenons and BSM mirrors. I also did not get the Nav which was the deciding factor for me. I wanted nav but not for the extra few grand.

good luck

 

[rlb]

According to Mazdas website, you need to get the moonroof/Bose pkg with the power lifgate pkg.