Like many carmakers Mazda’s range is these days increasingly oriented towards SUVs, with six of its 10 models so defined and more on the way, with the new CX-60 PHEV due late this year or early 2023.

The largest of Mazda’s current SUV range, the CX-9, received a spruce-up in 2021 that’s prompted us to revisit it here.

The update delivered infotainment and connectivity enhancements, improved equipment levels and a range expansion courtesy of three fresh models.

The ‘newbies’ include the GT SP tested here, as well as the return of an old badge in the range-topping Azami LE, and a 100th Anniversary Special Edition, capped at 110 units.

A notable highlight of the AWD-only Azami LE is its individually power-adjustable and ventilated Captain’s Seat layout for the second row, which lends the interior a more luxurious feel and provides ‘walk-in’ access to the third row, provided you’re a Hobbit.

The payback is that the fancy seats reduce seating capacity to six from the usual seven.

The Azami and Azami LE also score new quilted Nappa leather upholstery for the first and second-row seats as well as redesigned aluminium interior trims which further enhances cabin ambience.

These models also boast new alloy wheel designs, while the entire CX-9 range benefits from connectivity and infotainment revisions, courtesy of the latest-generation Mazda Connect system, based around a 10.25-inch colour screen.

Mazda claims the system boots up faster on start-up and has sharper screen resolution and better audio quality thanks to the change to digital signalling.

We found the system easy and intuitive to interact, while the ‘Qi’ wireless smartphone charging on GT models declutters the cabin of cords.   

Other changes include the adoption of paddle shifters for the six-speed torque-converter auto transmission on CX-9 Touring and above, allowing drivers to manually select gears, should they so choose.

The newly introduced GT SP grade that we’re focused on here is based on the $500 cheaper GT, but adds specific design elements including a dark gunmetal grille design, black mirror caps and black-finish 20-inch alloy wheels.

Interior differentiation comes courtesy of black interior decoration panels, plus red stitching highlights on the steering wheel, door trims, centre console, and armrests.

Burgundy leather seat trim rounds things out in a decidedly swanky looking cabin boasting above average attention to fit and finish.

Elsewhere, the SP’s generous standard equipment list includes a power sunroof, power tailgate with hands-free function, rain-sensing wipers, daytime running lights, front LED foglamps, LED headlights with high-beam control, three-zone climate control, and rear door sunshades.

Over and above this, tick off auto-dim mirror, USB charging points in all rows, 10-way power driver’s seat with two position memory, six-way power front passenger seat, heated front and outer second row seats, electric park brake, keyless entry, push button start, and tyre pressure monitoring.

Audiophiles will also love the Bose Premium audio with 12 speakers, while other tech and connectivity features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, DAB+ radio, internet radio integration (Stitcher and Aha), satnav, and a head-up display.

In the safety and driver assistance department there are six airbags, radar cruise control with stop/go, blind-spot monitoring, driver attention alert, forward obstruction warning, hill launch assist, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert, smart brake support (forward and reverse), traffic sign recognition, trailer stability assist, reversing camera, and front and rear park sensors.

Access to the standard third-row seating is relatively easy thanks to one-touch switches on the outer edges of the second-row seat cushions which effortlessly tilt and slide the middle pews.

The switches are low enough for children to get at which is handy and while the third row can certainly house an adult for short stints, it’s better suited for smaller frames.

Parents looking for a seven-seater with more than the usual three or four child seat anchors will also be pleased to note the CX-9 has five restraint points, including ISOFIX anchors in the outer positions of the sliding second-row seats.

Head, leg and foot space for second-row passengers is good and, with the third row folded into the floor, load area is a generous 810 litres.

Even with the rear seats in use there’s still 230 litres of space, which is enough for a couple of carry-on suitcases and two small day backpacks.

On the flipside, the space-saver spare wheel lacks the practicality of a full-size unit.

While there’s changes elsewhere, it’s business as usual in the CX-9’s engine room, where the smooth, strong and responsive 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine does an impressive job of hustling the GT SP’s 2011kg.

Claimed power and torque figures are 170kW/420Nm, the latter from 2,000rpm.

The GT SP grade comes in both front and all-wheel drive formats with the latter doing a nicer job of distributing drive via the standard six-speed auto.

Past experience tells us all that torque heading to the front wheels is a sure-fire recipe for torque-steer on harder acceleration.

The front drive GT SP is, however, a tad more fuel-efficient with its official combined cycle fuel consumption of 8.4L/100km bettering the AWD’s 9.0L/100km. There’s no diesel, hybrid or PHEV option available.

The CX-9 feels impressively confident and dynamic out on the road, lending credence to Mazda’s oft-stated philosophy of giving its cars a sporting edge.

The steering is nicely weighted, consistent and accurate in response, and the ride suitably compliant, even on big 20-inch wheels.

Buyers are spoilt for choice in the large SUV segment and Mazda’s updated CX-9 does enough to ensure it should remain on the radar of anyone shopping for size and quality in this category.  

Key facts

• MLP: $67,850
• ENGINE: 2.5-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder
• ANCAP CRASH RATING: Five stars (2016)
• FUEL CONSUMPTION (combined cycle, litres/100km)_: 9.0 (206g/km CO₂)
• FOR: Robust turbo-engine response, polished road manners, premium look and feel, seven seats, five child restraint points, distinctive ST SP specific trims.
• AGAINST: Third row better suited to kids, space-saver spare tyre, fuel consumption.