MotorWeek Names 2017 Mazda CX-9 Best Large Utility Vehicle

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The 2017 Mazda CX-9 crossover adds another trophy to its increasingly crowded case.

MotorWeek has named the 2017 Mazda CX-9 the best Large Utility Vehicle. The all-new CX_9 debuted as a 2016 model year vehicle last summer and has quickly gained the attention and praise of the driving enthusiast media. The CX-9 is a clean-sheet design, that no longer shares its underpinnings and drivetrain with any Ford vehicles.

The CX-9 is unique in its segment in that it uses a new turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Almost every competitor opts for a larger, smoother, more powerful V6.This doesn't hurt the CX-9's drivability at all, and may, in fact, be an asset.

MotorWeek's praise comes as part of the publication's Driver's Choice Awards. The CX-9 wins its segment, and MotorWeek said the vehicle is an, "...emotionally-styled, hand-crafted piece of automotive machinery that moves your soul as much as it moves people and cargo."

Torque News tested the new CX-9 and found that there are three areas in which it stands out.

I give you this. Mazda CX-9 is a bargain in the segment when compared to some very good competition. Reasonable MSRP and standard feature value is CX-9. As to the engine noise, quirky headlight design, and rather busy interior color combinations, that's a matter of personal design preference. Impressive to be sure.