2007 Mazda CX-9 Touring AWD Trim Overview

The 2007 Mazda CX-9 Touring AWD provides extra grip on slippery roads with its automatic Active Torque Split. Though it defaults to front-wheel drive, it can send as much as 50% of torque to the rear wheels. It comes with limited slip center and rear differentials, but no low-range gearing, so don't make plans to take this full-size crossover off-road. The seven-passenger CX-9 Touring AWD rides on an independent Macpherson strut front and multilink rear sport suspension, and uses 18-inch wheels with all-season tires.

Traction and stability control, rollover mitigation, 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes with brake assist and electronic brakeforce distribution are all standard. The dual front-side airbags feature passenger deactivation, while side curtain airbags cover all three rows. The crossover earns five stars in all tests but rollovers (four stars). Other safety equipment  includes automatic headlights and a tire monitor. To help with visibility at night, you can add an auto-dimming rearview mirror, while an optional rearview camera helps when backing up. The whole package is powered by a 263-hp, 3.5-liter DOHC V6. With the 6-speed sport-shifting automatic transmission, the powertrain puts out 249 ft-lbs of torque at 4500 RPM and can tow up to 3500 pounds (trailer hitch costs extra).

The 2007 CX-9 Touring AWD features power front seats that are heated, leather upholstery, heated mirrors, and Bluetooth. Already standard are power windows, locks, and mirrors, remote entry, wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls, front and rear climate control, and a CD/MP3 player. Intermittent front and rear wipers, tilt and telescopic steering, a front power outlet, a tachometer, and a temperature readout are also part of the package. Remote start and memory settings for the driver can be added, along with a DVD player, satellite radio, a 6-CD changer, a sunroof, a navigation system, and a power liftgate. The cargo area holds 17.2 cubic feet, but expands to 47 with the 50/50 third row folded flat and to 100 cubic feet with the 60/40 second row folded flat. Tiedowns are standard, with the option to add a cargo net, cargo cover, and roof rack.