The 2018 Mazda CX-9 2WD 2.5L 4-cyl achieves 24 MPG combined, a reasonable compromise for those who need space. While not exceptional, it’s respectable considering its purpose: carrying families and cargo comfortably and stylishly, avoiding the minivan image. Owners accept this MPG because they value passenger space and Mazda’s engaging driving feel over maximum fuel efficiency, trading a few MPGs for a more enjoyable drive and a nicer appearance.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 22 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway for this CX-9. The city figure reflects frequent stops and starts. The highway figure shows the benefits of the turbocharged 2.5L engine and 6-speed automatic transmission working together at a constant speed. The engine’s small size helps save fuel on the open road, while the turbocharger provides enough power for passing and hills. Drivers who drive more on highways will likely see fuel economy closer to the EPA rating. This CX-9’s fuel economy is better for longer trips than constant city driving. See CX 9 MPG across all years.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Mazda CX-9 2WD 2.5L 4-cyl at $1,800. This is based on 15,000 miles per year and national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary based on driving habits, fuel type (regular unleaded recommended), and local prices. Drivers who drive mostly in the city or accelerate quickly will likely spend more. Those who mainly drive highway miles and drive efficiently could spend less.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standard estimate, but real-world fuel economy often varies. The 2018 Mazda CX-9 2WD 2.5L 4-cyl’s MPG depends on driving style. Hard acceleration and braking will reduce fuel economy. Load also matters, more passengers and cargo increase weight, needing more energy to move. Also, temperature, wind, and tire pressure affect fuel use. Expecting exactly 24 MPG in all cases is not realistic. Tracking your fuel consumption will give you a more accurate idea of what to expect under your specific conditions.

How it compares

In the three-row SUV class, the 2018 Mazda CX-9 2WD 2.5L 4-cyl’s fuel economy is in the middle. The Honda Pilot gets a slightly higher 23 MPG combined with 2WD. The Toyota Highlander with its standard V6 gets about 22 MPG combined. The Ford Explorer with its base 2.3L EcoBoost engine gets around 23 MPG combined. These differences can impact consumer decisions. Buyers who prioritize fuel efficiency might choose the Honda Pilot, while buyers who prefer performance and styling might find the CX-9 acceptable. To get a broader view, see all Mazda fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Check tire pressure. Make sure your tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, usually on a sticker inside the driver’s side door. Low tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Checking tire pressure is a quick way to improve fuel efficiency.

Avoid aggressive driving. The CX-9’s turbocharged engine is responsive, but using its power often will decrease fuel economy. Accelerate smoothly and predict traffic to avoid braking. Maintaining a steady speed on the highway and avoiding sudden acceleration can improve your MPG.

Minimize idling. If stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Idling uses fuel without moving. Modern cars, including the CX-9, restart quickly, so there’s no need to idle unnecessarily. The idea that restarting the engine uses more fuel is usually false for newer cars.

Reduce vehicle weight. Remove unnecessary items from the vehicle. Extra weight requires more energy to move. Emptying the trunk and removing roof racks when not used can improve fuel economy. Even small weight reductions can add up.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps keep a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy. Use cruise control carefully, as it might not be best on hills or in heavy traffic. Adjust cruise control to road conditions.