Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the 2018 Mazda CX-9 Signature, the top-of-the-line trim of Mazda's popular three-row SUV. If you're in the market for a family-friendly vehicle that doesn't skimp on luxury and driving pleasure, then stick around. We'll cover everything from the design and features to the performance and overall value. This review will help you decide if the CX-9 Signature is the right fit for you. Buckle up, and let's get started!

Design and Aesthetics: A Touch of Elegance

Let's kick things off with the design. The 2018 Mazda CX-9 Signature truly shines with its sophisticated and elegant aesthetic. Mazda's Kodo design language, which emphasizes sleek lines and flowing curves, is on full display here. The Signature trim elevates this further with exclusive details that set it apart from the lower trims. The exterior boasts a distinctive, premium look, thanks to the unique features such as the elegant chrome accents around the grille, along the window sills, and on the lower part of the doors. The LED headlights and taillights are not only functional but also add to the car's premium feel, providing a sharp and modern appearance. The 19-inch wheels are also exclusive to the Signature trim, with a design that perfectly complements the overall aesthetic. These wheels are not only stylish but also contribute to the smooth and comfortable ride quality that the CX-9 is known for.

Moving inside, the interior of the CX-9 Signature is where the true luxury experience begins. Mazda has spared no expense in creating a cabin that feels both upscale and inviting. The use of high-quality materials is immediately noticeable. The seats are wrapped in Nappa leather, which is incredibly soft and comfortable, even on long journeys. The real rosewood trim on the dashboard and door panels adds a touch of natural elegance and warmth, setting the Signature apart from other SUVs in its class. The stitching is impeccable, the soft-touch surfaces are everywhere, and the overall fit and finish are top-notch. The layout is clean and uncluttered, with a focus on simplicity and functionality. The infotainment system is seamlessly integrated into the dashboard, with a large touchscreen display that's easy to navigate. The placement of the controls is intuitive, and everything is within easy reach of the driver. Overall, the design of the 2018 Mazda CX-9 Signature is a masterclass in combining style, comfort, and functionality, making it a standout choice in the competitive SUV market. The design makes it great for everyday use and also to impress friends.

Exclusive Signature Trim Details

What makes the Signature trim so special? Well, aside from the aforementioned features like the Nappa leather and rosewood trim, there are a few other exclusive touches. The Signature also comes with unique badging, and a few other subtle design tweaks that enhance its premium appeal. The seats are not only wrapped in luxurious leather but also feature a unique quilting pattern that adds to their visual appeal. The interior colors are carefully selected to create a sense of harmony and sophistication. Mazda has clearly put a lot of thought into the details, and it shows.

Performance and Driving Experience: A Joy to Drive

Alright, let's talk about how the 2018 Mazda CX-9 Signature performs on the road. Under the hood, the CX-9 is powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This engine is a real gem, delivering a punchy 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque when using regular 87-octane fuel (or 250 hp with 93-octane). This engine is paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission. This combination provides brisk acceleration and plenty of power for everyday driving situations. Whether you're merging onto the highway or passing a slower vehicle, the CX-9 Signature feels responsive and confident. The turbocharger provides quick bursts of power, making the driving experience feel sporty and engaging. The engine is also surprisingly efficient for its class, which is a bonus. The CX-9 offers a great balance of performance and fuel economy.

Handling and Ride Quality

One of the standout features of the CX-9 is its exceptional handling. Mazda is known for its focus on driving dynamics, and the CX-9 is no exception. The steering is precise and responsive, providing excellent feedback to the driver. The suspension is well-tuned, striking a perfect balance between comfort and control. The CX-9 handles corners with confidence, feeling planted and stable on the road. Even though it's a three-row SUV, it feels surprisingly nimble and easy to maneuver. The ride quality is smooth and comfortable, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. The CX-9 is a pleasure to drive, whether you're cruising on the highway or navigating city streets. The engineers at Mazda have done an outstanding job of creating a vehicle that's both practical and fun to drive. The Signature trim comes standard with all-wheel drive, which further enhances its handling capabilities and provides added confidence in various weather conditions.

Fuel Efficiency

Let's not forget about fuel efficiency. The 2018 Mazda CX-9 Signature is relatively efficient for its class. The EPA estimates that it gets around 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. Of course, your actual fuel economy may vary depending on your driving habits and the conditions. Overall, the CX-9 offers a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for everyday driving. The fuel efficiency makes it a smart choice for those who want a capable SUV without breaking the bank at the pump.

Interior Features and Technology: A Tech-Savvy Sanctuary

Let's dive into the interior features and technology of the 2018 Mazda CX-9 Signature. This trim level is packed with premium features designed to enhance the driving experience and provide maximum comfort for both the driver and passengers. Starting with the infotainment system, the CX-9 Signature comes equipped with a large, user-friendly touchscreen display. The system is intuitive and easy to navigate, with a clean and simple interface. You can control various functions, such as audio, navigation, and vehicle settings, with ease. The system also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's system. This means you can access your favorite apps, make calls, and send texts hands-free. The CX-9 also has a premium audio system, typically a Bose setup, that delivers exceptional sound quality. The audio system is well-balanced, with clear highs, rich mids, and deep bass. Whether you're listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks, you'll be able to enjoy a high-quality audio experience. This is especially great for those long road trips.

Comfort and Convenience

The CX-9 Signature is designed with comfort in mind. The front seats are heated and ventilated, providing optimal comfort in any weather conditions. The seats are also power-adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect driving position. The second-row seats are also comfortable, with plenty of legroom and headroom. The second-row seats can slide and recline, providing flexibility for passengers. The third row is best suited for children, but it's still a nice feature to have for occasional use. The CX-9 also offers a range of convenient features, such as a power liftgate, a rearview camera, and parking sensors. These features make it easier to load and unload cargo, park in tight spaces, and maneuver the vehicle. The overall interior environment is designed to be both functional and luxurious. The materials are of high quality, and the design is well-thought-out. The CX-9 Signature is a great place to spend time, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a family road trip.

Safety Technology

Safety is a top priority in the 2018 Mazda CX-9 Signature. It comes equipped with a suite of advanced safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. These features include adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front; lane departure warning, which alerts you if you drift out of your lane; and blind-spot monitoring, which helps you detect vehicles in your blind spots. The CX-9 also has automatic emergency braking, which can apply the brakes automatically if a potential collision is detected. These safety features are designed to help prevent accidents and minimize the impact of a collision. The CX-9 also has a high safety rating from the IIHS and NHTSA, which is a testament to its overall safety performance. The inclusion of these advanced safety technologies provides peace of mind, knowing that you and your family are well-protected on the road. The safety features make the car feel even more luxurious.

Trim Levels and Pricing: What You Get

The 2018 Mazda CX-9 is available in several trim levels, but the Signature is the top-of-the-line. As such, it comes with a premium price tag, but it also offers a wealth of features and luxurious appointments. The Signature trim typically includes all-wheel drive, Nappa leather upholstery, real rosewood trim, unique exterior styling elements, and a host of advanced technology features. The exact price will vary depending on the location and any optional features, but it's important to consider whether the added features and luxury of the Signature trim justify the higher cost. The lower trim levels, such as the Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring, offer a more affordable entry point into the CX-9 lineup. These trims still provide a comfortable and capable driving experience, but they may lack some of the premium features of the Signature. When considering the price, it's also important to factor in the long-term cost of ownership, including fuel, insurance, and maintenance. The CX-9 has a reputation for reliability, which can help keep ownership costs down over time. Before making a decision, it's a good idea to compare the different trim levels and features to determine which one best fits your needs and budget.

Comparing Trim Levels

Let's quickly compare the trim levels. The Sport trim is the base model, offering essential features at an attractive price. The Touring adds more comfort and convenience features, such as heated front seats and a power liftgate. The Grand Touring builds on the Touring with even more luxury features, such as leather seats and a premium audio system. Finally, the Signature trim is the pinnacle of luxury, with premium materials and exclusive features. Each trim level caters to different needs and budgets, so it's essential to consider your priorities when making your choice. Assess what's essential for your lifestyle and family, and then consider the extra features that each trim level has, such as the infotainment system or the audio system. If budget is not a big issue, the Signature offers the ultimate CX-9 experience.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Options

So, what are the pros and cons of the 2018 Mazda CX-9 Signature? Let's break it down:

Pros:

• Luxurious Interior: The Nappa leather, rosewood trim, and high-quality materials create a premium feel.
• Stylish Design: The Kodo design language gives the CX-9 a sleek and elegant appearance.
• Engaging Driving Experience: The turbocharged engine and responsive handling make it fun to drive.
• Advanced Safety Features: The CX-9 is packed with safety technologies to protect occupants.
• Comfortable Ride: The suspension is well-tuned, providing a smooth and comfortable ride.

Cons:

• Price: The Signature trim is the most expensive of the CX-9 lineup.
• Third-Row Space: The third-row seating is best suited for children and may be cramped for adults.
• Infotainment System: While user-friendly, the infotainment system may not be as feature-rich as some competitors.
• Cargo Space: Cargo space behind the third row is limited when all seats are in use.

Conclusion: Is the 2018 Mazda CX-9 Signature Right for You?

So, is the 2018 Mazda CX-9 Signature worth it? The answer depends on your priorities. If you're looking for a luxurious, stylish, and engaging three-row SUV, and you're willing to pay a premium for it, then the CX-9 Signature is an excellent choice. It offers a combination of comfort, performance, and technology that's hard to beat. However, if you're on a tighter budget or need more third-row space, you might want to consider the lower trim levels or other SUVs in the same class. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to test drive the CX-9 and see how it feels. Consider the pros and cons, and determine if it meets your needs. Take a close look at the features, assess your budget, and decide what matters most to you. The 2018 Mazda CX-9 Signature is a great SUV. The car is an excellent option for those who want a blend of luxury, performance, and practicality, making it a strong contender in its segment. If you value a premium experience and enjoy driving, the CX-9 Signature is definitely worth checking out.

That's all for today, guys! Hope this review helped you out. Let me know in the comments below if you have any other questions. See ya!