Full Expert Review: 2016 Mazda CX-9\rbrWhats New for 2016\rbr\rbrThe Mazda CX-9 has been completely redesigned for 2016.\rbrIntroduction\rbr\rbrThe 2016 Mazda CX-9 is the first major redesign of this seven-passenger, three-row crossover since it debuted nearly a decade ago.\rbr\rbrAvailable this spring, the second-generation CX-9 promises better performance than before, increased efficiency and a new level of refinement. The new CX-9 started from a blank slate and a significantly lighter chassis. Depending on trim level and whether configured with front- or all-wheel drive, the new model sheds between 198 and 287 pounds. It also sits on a 2.2-inch-longer wheelbase, which Mazda says adds legroom and eases rear passenger entry and exit (although specific dimensions havent been released yet).\rbr\rbrDespite the longer wheelbase, the new CX-9 is ually shorter in overall length than before, although still a little longer than a Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander. An elongated hood, signature trapezoidal grille framed by LED headlights, and a choice of 18- or 20-inch wheels add to the CX-9s striking road presence.\rbr\rbrWhats Under the Hood?\rbrThe 2016 Mazda CX-9 uses a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 227 horsepower (250 hp with premium fuel) and 310 pound-feet of torque, joined with a six-speed automatic transmission. EPA fuel economy estimates arent available yet, but Mazda says the new engine should return about 20 percent better fuel economy than the outgoing V6 engine.\rbr\rbrFront-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional.\rbr\rbrWhat Features Will It Have?\rbrIn keeping with Mazdas corporate model structure, the CX-9 will be available in a base Sport trim, followed by progressively nicer Touring and Grand Touring trims. An additional top trim called Signature will offer Napa leather, aluminum accents and rosewood trim.\rbr\rbrThe CX-9 will come with a standard 7- or optional 8-inch central entertainment display and Mazda Connect smartphone integration, which offers Bluetooth phone and audio streaming and voice commands. Two USB ports up front and two in the second row will help keep multiple devices charged and connected. A premium Bose 12-speaker audio system is also available.\rbr\rbrAn optional full-color head-up display can project information like navigation directions or cruise control settings onto the lower windshield.\rbr\rbrThe third row should be able to accommodate average-size adults in a pinch, but is best reserved for children. Mazda even focused on developing a single release lever for the second row thats easy enough for a child to operate alone. The second-rows passenger-side seat has also been designed to fold forward even if a forward-facing child safety seat is installed.\rbr\rbrWith the exception of a blind spot monitoring system, Mazdas i-Activsense safety suite adds radar cruise control, lane-keeping assist and departure warning (a Mazda first for the U.S.), automatic high beam control and forward collision mitigation with automatic braking.\rbr\rbrWhen Is It Available, and for How Much?\rbrWhen the CX-9 begins appearing in Mazda showrooms in late May, prices will start at $31,520 for the base Sport model and climb to $44,015 for the top-of-the-line Signature model.\rbr\rbrWhat Else Is Out There?\rbrThere are several very good three-row crossovers such as the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, both considered benchmarks of the class. But other good choices include the Chevrolet Traverse, Ford Explorer and Hyundai Santa Fe.