Too often drivers must choose between having a reliable, family-oriented vehicle, and having a car they can enjoy driving. This is especially the case with SUVs of the three-row variety.

Thankfully, the Mazda CX-9 does not fit that mold, as you can actually fulfill both desires. I recently tested the 2021 Mazda CX-9, which receives some upgrades in its design and technology setup, and I’m back with a full report.

LOOKS

The exterior design of the CX-9 remains sharp on the 2021 model, with a familiar overhang in the front that distinguishes Mazda, and an overall svelte shape for a three-row SUV. 

The vehicle I tested featured a Soul Red Crystal metallic paint job, a very sharp-looking red color associated with Mazda that lets you instantly identify the vehicle.

Mazda continues to be one of the very best of the nonluxury brands in terms of overall interior quality. The look and feel of all the materials used in the CX-9 is near-luxury level. My test vehicle featured seating for six passengers, 2 in each row, but there are versions with a bench seat in the middle that will seat 7 people.