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The CX-9 is Mazda’s flagship midsize crossover SUV. All redesigned for 2017, this 7-passenger, 3-row SUV features stylish interior, premium exterior, and a beast of a turbocharged engine. It’s ideal for a family or individual looking for zippy performance and excellent fuel efficiency.
On the other hand, 2017 Lexus RX 350 is a luxury crossover SUV that’s perfect fit for consumers (preferably families) looking for a well-rounded family-style crossover. This two-row, 5-passenger luxury crossover offers comfortable interior, snappy ride, and a host of safety and luxury features.
CX-9 : FEATURED TRIM $45,215...MSRP $44,015
RX 350 : FEATURED TRIM $54,560…MSRP $43,020
Pros
Interior: 2017 Lexus RX 350 has a well-built, superior cabin that include soft-to-touch material and impressive construction. Of course, 2017 Mazda CX-9 Signature has a roomier and more robust interior than RX 350, seating 7 people, 2 more than RX350. It also features top-notch utilities like premium Bose audio system.
Safety: A raft of safety features that were optional in 2016 version come standard in 2017 Lexus RX 350, including blind spot monitoring, a head-up display, navigation, lane departure warning, and pre-collision alert. You can now receive traffic updates on the go via Facebook, Yelp, and OpenTable connected apps. On its side, CX-9 Signature complete’s Mazda’s line of SkyActiv vehicles, a move that signifies its entry into the premium turf. With safety and driving aids/features such as AWD, automatic emergency braking, and radar cruise control, CX-9 Signatures matches up or surpasses 2017 RX 350 by a significant margin regarding safety.
Acceleration and Efficiency: Under the hood of 2017 Lexus RX 350 is a beast of an Engine: 3.5-liter V6, churning out 295 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of Torque. CX-9’s 4-cylinder, turbocharged 2.5-liter engine can give off 310 lb-ft of torque, but measly 220 horsepower when pit against RX350.
Fuel Economy:RX 350 slightly edges out CX-9 Signatures when it comes to fuel economy. Its MPG is 21 cty/ 27 hwy compared to Mazda’s 20 cty/ 27 hwy.
ConS
Sure, 2017 RX 350 is sleeker than its predecessors, but it’s no feat for CX-9 Signature. Both crossover SUVs come with less cargo area spaces than others in the class.
Bottom Line
2017 Lexus RX 350 features comfortable cockpit, quality ride, and an array of premium safety standards, making it a go-to for those looking for a well-rounded crossover SUV. On the other hand, CX-9 is roomier, seats more, and offers better fuel efficiency. For a family car and for functionality, the 2017 Mazda CX-9 Signature is our choice. For overall quality and dependability our choice is the 2017 Lexus RX 350.
Mazda CX-9 Quick Stats
Price as tested: $45,215
MSRP: $44,015
Max Capacity: 8
–Car Seats: 4 Large Car Seats
–w/o Car Seats: 6 Kids in back
Fuel economy: 18/27 mpg (cty/hwy)
Test vehicle provided by Mazda
Lexus RX 350 Quick Stats
Price as tested: $54,650
MSRP: $43,020
Max Capacity: 5
–Car Seats: 2 Large Car Seats
–w/o Car Seats: 6 Kids in back
Fuel economy: 20/27 mpg (cty/hwy)
Test vehicle provided by Lexus
More
Click Here For Our Review of the Mazda CX-9 -OR- Click Here For Our Review of the Lexus RX350
Ratings
#Audience: Passenger Comfort & Care
#Beauty: Head Turner
#Coins: Bang for Your Buck
#Delivery: Handling
#Ease: Dummy Proof
#Future: Aging & Holding Value
#Goods: Storage, Cargo & Trunk Space
Overall Rating
Speed Beautiful was founded in 2011 with the purpose of publishing car news & reviews to assist women and families in their automobile search.