19 MPG combined is the fuel economy truth for a used 2015 Mazda CX-9 2WD with the 3.7L V6. While this isn’t good fuel economy, most CX-9 buyers have accepted this as the price for a spacious, family-friendly SUV with Mazda’s driving feel. This SUV isn’t bought for efficiency but for its utility and style, where the MPG sits as a compromise.

City and highway performance

The EPA numbers are 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure shows the V6 working to move the CX-9 from a stop, with the 6-speed automatic managing power. The highway number is better. The CX-9 is able to cruise comfortably, the engine works less, and fuel economy improves. Real world driving varies, but the EPA numbers are a decent starting point.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Mazda CX-9 2WD 3.7L at $2,300. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using the EPA’s combined MPG, and assuming a national average fuel price. What you spend will vary based on how much and where you drive, as well as gas prices in your area. If you drive mostly in the city or accelerate quickly, expect to exceed that number. This $2,300 figure puts the CX-9 MPG across all years in context alongside other used vehicles you may consider.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized test, but expecting to get 17 MPG city and 24 MPG highway in the real world would be optimistic. Many owners find numbers closer to 15 MPG in the city and around 22 MPG on the highway, particularly in hilly areas or with frequent stop-and-go traffic. A more realistic expectation for combined mileage is closer to 18 MPG in regular driving.

How it compares

When the 2015 CX-9 was new, its fuel economy was behind competitors. A 2015 Toyota Highlander with the 3.5L V6 and front-wheel drive got 19 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. The Honda Pilot with its 3.5L V6 had similar numbers. Even the Chevrolet Traverse, a larger vehicle, matched the CX-9’s combined MPG but often used a less expensive gas. This matters to buyers in this segment, as they often seek value and long-term affordability. All Mazda fuel economy data is on this site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration saves fuel in the CX-9. The 3.7L V6 can rev quickly, but resisting flooring it from every stop will save gas. Focus on smooth acceleration to keep the engine efficient.

Keep tires at the recommended pressure. Low pressure increases rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and using more fuel. Check your tire pressure often and inflate tires to the pressure on the door jamb sticker. This improves fuel economy and vehicle control.

Minimize idling, which wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turning off the engine is more efficient. It avoids fuel consumption from continuously rotating the engine.

Service the vehicle on schedule. Keeping the engine maintained, including regular oil changes and filter replacements, helps fuel economy. A poorly maintained engine is inefficient, lowering MPG.