The 2015 Mazda CX-9 4WD with the 3.7L V6 engine gets 19 MPG combined. While this isn’t great by modern standards, it’s the trade-off for the CX-9’s large interior, reliable all-weather traction, and fun driving. This CX-9 is not for hypermilers; it’s for families who want space and safety but still some excitement in their daily driving.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates that this CX-9 configuration gets 16 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city MPG reflects the inefficiency of stop-and-go driving, made worse by the CX-9’s weight. The highway number is better, suggesting the six-speed automatic transmission and 3.7L V6 can be reasonably efficient when cruising. Remember that these are laboratory figures, and real-world conditions affect fuel use.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates a $2,300 annual fuel cost for the 2015 Mazda CX-9 4WD. This assumes 15,000 miles per year, a 55/45 split between city and highway driving, and the national average fuel price when calculated. Your individual spending may change based on driving and local fuel prices, but $2,300 is a benchmark when budgeting for the vehicle. Though significant, view it knowing the CX-9 is a spacious family vehicle.

Real-world expectations

Expect your MPG numbers to be lower than the EPA estimates. Aggressive driving, short trips, heavy loads, and even tire pressure hurt fuel use. Some owners average closer to 15 MPG in mixed driving, especially in cities. Predictable highway driving might get you closer to the EPA’s 22 MPG, but going over that consistently is unlikely. Know this range to manage expectations and avoid surprise.

How it compares

The 2015 CX-9 4WD’s fuel economy is average compared to others. The 2015 Toyota Highlander V6 AWD gets a slightly better 20 MPG combined, while the 2015 Honda Pilot 4WD gets about the same at 18 MPG combined. Meanwhile, the Nissan Pathfinder 4WD from that year could get 21 MPG combined. These variations create large differences in fuel costs over time. Shoppers often compare the CX 9 MPG across all years with these rivals. The CX-9 drives sportier than many competitors, so its slightly lower fuel economy works for some buyers.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Accelerate and brake gently. The 3.7L V6 responds quickly, but every stomp wastes fuel. Anticipate traffic and minimize speed changes to keep the engine efficient.

Keep your tires inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and burn more fuel. Check tire pressures often and inflate them to the manufacturer’s specifications, found on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize idling. Idling burns fuel without moving the car, especially when cold. If you’ll be stopped for over a minute, turn off the engine. The 3.7L V6 restarts quickly and is reliable.

Reduce weight. Extra cargo, especially heavy items, strains the engine and hurts fuel economy. Remove anything from the CX-9 that isn’t needed for daily driving in order to lighten the load.

Consider lower octane gasoline. The 3.7L V6 uses regular unleaded fuel. Premium fuel might give a small performance boost, but it likely won’t improve MPG. Using the recommended fuel grade will save money at the pump. Review all Mazda fuel economy data to see if engine trends correlate to fuel grade.