For 2021 Mazda has updated their flagship CX-9 large SUV for the second time in twelve months, with added technology and some exciting new features.
Above the Azami, there is now a new range-topping Azami LE priced from $73,875 before on-road costs with the opulent touch of captain’s chairs.
The Azami LE gets some new alloys and tasty interior changes.
Of course, that does impede practicality somewhat – they don’t swivel like the Hyundai Palisade’s chairs, and reduce seating capacity to six, luckily Mazda offers plenty of other options that are less all-out-luxe.
Still, Mazda is continuing to push their premium philosophy, with Vinesh Bhindi, Mazda Australia Managing Director commenting: “the updated CX-9 is a strong statement for the Mazda brand as we enter 2021”.
Pricing has been increased across the range, between $70 and $1,322 depending on the grade, a full price list appears at the end of this article.
A new 10.25-inch screen now features across the CX-9 range.
The Sport now starts from $45,990 or $49,990 for an all-wheel-drive model, powered by a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 170kW and 420Nm. This engine features across the CX-9 range, as does a six-speed automatic gearbox.
Bolstering standard equipment for 2021 is a revamped infotainment system featuring a higher resolution 10.25-inch screen – up from nine-inches. Cloth-appointed seats feature on the Sport grade.
For $53,590 the Touring adds paddle shifters and black leather-appointments for the seats. The GT builds on that spec with wireless phone charging and the choice of Natural Stone or Beige leather for $62,990.
The CX-9 is still a practical family hauler, regardless of which spec you choose.
Mazda’s first new model for 2021 is the GT SP, which sits above the GT from $63,490. The SP is a styling package only, which brings Burgundy leather, black interior trim, dark-finish grille and mirrors and a set of black 20-inch alloy wheels.
The previously top-of-the-range Azami differentiates itself with 20-inch alloy wheels, panoramic sunroof and head-up display, as well as the choice of Pure White or Walnut Brown Nappa leather from $66,190.
It’s the new Azami LE that impresses most, with its quilted Nappa leather and new 20-inch alloys to help it compete with the luxury pitch of the Kia Sorento.
But it’s the opulent Azami LE with quilted Nappa leather and captain’s chairs we’re excited about.
Those captain’s chairs mentioned above have their own centre console which gives access to heating and cooling controls, as well as electric adjustment to second-row passengers which is appropriately opulent.
To access the third row is simple; the electric second row will trundle themselves out of the way with the touch of just one button. All this for only $73,875 is impressive.
Mazda offers one more grade, the limited 100th anniversary. Finished in Snowflake White paint with a Burgundy leather interior, this grade is strictly limited with only 110 coming to Australia, each with a unique numbered plaque.
Mazda CX-9 Azami LE 2021-2
Naturally, a full safety suite is standard across the range including adaptive cruise with stop & go, lane-keep assist, front and rear AEB, six airbags and rear cross-traffic alert.
The refreshed CX-9 lineup will go on-sale in Australia in early 2021.
Mazda CX-9 2021: pricing in Australia
- CX-9 Sport FWD – $45,990 (up $70)
- CX-9 Sport AWD – $49,990 (up $70)
- CX-9 Touring FWD – $53,490 (up $180
- CX-9 Touring AWD – $57,490 (up $180)
- CX-9 GT FWD – $62,990 (up $1,270)
- CX-9 GT AWD – $66,990 (up $1,270)
- CX-9 GT SP FWD – $63,490
- CX-9 GT SP AWD – $67,490
- CX-9 Azami FWD – $66,190 (up $1,297)
- CX-9 Azami AWD – $70,625 (up $1,322)
- CX-9 100th Anniversary AWD – $72,575
- CX-9 Azami LE AWD – $73,875
