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Forget the Leaks: Mazda Reveals Sweet Redesigned CX-9

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2016 Mazda CX-9

Even though somebody leaked the new look of the CX-9 a few days ago, Mazda has happily given the redesigned CX-9 its world premiere at the LA Auto Show, as a three-row mid-size SUV, decked out with the latest KODO-Soul of Motion design and SKYACTIV technology. Mazda promises that this a high-end model for the brand’s new-generation lineup, tailored specifically for the North American market.

2016 Mazda CX-9

More specifically, the CX-9 is aimed at “mature families.” In a press release, Mazda said, “The driver of CX-9 was seen to be a caring husband or wife, a high-achiever, a busy parent—and, still, an individual with his or her own needs and aspirations. CX-9 was developed to indulge personal desires while satisfying rational needs for a practical, all-weather family vehicle.” It then outlined four core principles that the CX-9 is supposed to satisfy: personal aspiration, effortless transition, easy parenting, and couples retreat.

2016 Mazda CX-9

But what exactly is new for the CX-9, besides the retooled exterior? The biggest difference is Mazda’s latest SKYACTIV engine, the SKYACTIV-G 2.5T, a turbocharged 2.5-liter direct-injection gas engine, which gives the CX-9 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This is the first turbocharged SKYACTIV-G engine Mazda has ever produced, and is designed to attempt to overcome the poor low-rpm performance and disappointing fuel economy of typical turbocharged engines.

In addition, the CX-9 has dropped some weight, shedding 198 pounds in front-wheel drive models and 287 pounds in all-wheel drive models. Those numbers would be higher, but Mazda engineers apparently took advantage of the large weight loss to add some sound-deadening mats, increase the window thickness, and implement more rigid parts, all to reduce noise in the cabin.

All of this and many features which we didn’t mention here combine to produce a seven-passenger, three-row SUV that will certainly make family drives a good time.

2016 Mazda CX-9 Photos: