BY H. THROTTLE
AUTOMOTIVE COLUMNIST
A “Dream Car” came my way this week with the arrival of a Mazda CX-9 Signature model that has to be the top of the Mazda line. It should be spectacular with a suggested manufacturer’s retail price of $47,210 and worth every penny.
This “Soul Red Crystal Metallic” painted all-wheel drive has stolen my heart. The interior is laced with white leather, described as “Parchment.”
Final assembly entirely in Hiroshima, Japan with entire power train and engine manufactured locally. This is a product of pride.
The engine has 227 turbo horsepower engine connected to Skyactiv drive with eco and sport modes. The versatile transmission works perfectly together and the CX-9 is powerful. Fuel economy averages 26 mpg on freeways and 20 mpg in city traffic.
The drive train has steering wheel paddle shifters that are handy in mountain terrain. The highways heading West are full of cracks and ruts with heavy road construction in progress. Riding over the irregular road surfaces, the ride is soft and comfortable. The seats are plush, and the ride is perfected by front and rear independent suspension and front and rear stabilizer bars.
Performance and comfort are first-class. What about safety rating? The CX9 scores a perfect overall five-star score. The five-passenger sedan has every safety devise known to auto engineers; radar cruise control, sign recognition, lane departure alerts, and even driver alert warnings.
The CX9 is well-equipped for winter driving with de-ice and rain sensor windshield wipers, heated rearview mirrors, and LED fog lights. The sedan rides on 20” alloy wheels with all-season tires.
Special features include wireless phone charger, heated leather steering wheel, heated and cooled front and rear seats, with power lumbar for driver’s seat. This car is about comfort for both front and rear seat passengers.
Latest technology with a 10.25 center color screen, easy controls, full navigation system, 360 vertical view for parking lot assistance.
Mazda engineers have designed a masterpiece of quality and perfection in this AWD sedan. Push the power moonroof and enjoy the Colorado mountains in winter and summer months in this luxury vehicle.