24 MPG combined won’t win any hypermiling awards, but it’s acceptable fuel economy for the 2020 Mazda CX-9 2WD. This vehicle isn’t about outright frugality; it’s about providing a stylish and engaging driving experience for families who need three rows of seats but refuse to resign themselves to the boredom of a typical minivan or large SUV. Fuel efficiency is a consideration, of course, but it’s balanced against the CX-9’s other strengths: stylish design, a premium interior, and Mazda’s signature driving dynamics.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the CX-9 2WD at 22 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the CX-9’s turbocharged engine needs to work a bit harder to get its weight moving. The highway number is more respectable, showcasing the engine’s efficiency at steady speeds. The six-speed automatic transmission, while not the latest technology, helps highway efficiency by allowing the engine to cruise at lower RPMs. Drivers who prioritize longer road trips will find the CX-9’s highway performance more appealing than those who primarily use it for short city commutes.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Mazda CX-9 2WD at precisely $1,800. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using national average fuel prices. This cost is only an estimate, as individual driving habits and local fuel prices will significantly impact the actual amount spent on fuel. Aggressive driving, frequent idling, and living in an area with higher gasoline prices can all increase your annual fuel expenditure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy often varies. CX-9 owners report that achieving the EPA’s 28 MPG highway figure is achievable on long, steady-speed trips. However, the 22 MPG city figure can be harder to replicate, especially in congested urban environments.

Many drivers find their combined fuel economy hovering around 23 MPG, slightly below the EPA’s 24 MPG estimate. Factors such as driving style, tire pressure, and even the use of air conditioning can all influence fuel consumption. The CX-9 requires premium fuel to achieve optimum performance and efficiency, which, though it does not change the MPG, does change the fuel cost overall.

How it compares

The Mazda CX-9 2WD’s fuel economy falls somewhere in the middle of the three-row SUV segment. The Kia Telluride, for instance, is rated at 20 MPG city and 26 MPG highway, making it slightly less efficient than the CX-9. The Honda Pilot performs similarly, with ratings of 20 MPG city and 27 MPG highway. On the more efficient end, some hybrid SUVs, such as the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, achieve significantly better fuel economy, approaching 35 MPG combined. However, the Highlander Hybrid often costs more, a fact that may drive budget-conscious buyers to consider models like the CX-9. To see all Mazda models, you can view all Mazda fuel economy data. Also, if you want to see how this year stacks up to others, visit CX 9 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Adopt a smooth and progressive driving style. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these actions consume more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. The CX-9’s responsive engine can tempt drivers to accelerate quickly, but a more gentle approach will result in fuel savings.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during seasonal temperature changes. Maintaining proper tire inflation is a simple and effective way to improve the CX-9’s efficiency.

Minimize the use of air conditioning, especially during moderate weather. The air conditioning compressor places a significant load on the engine, reducing fuel economy. When possible, opt for fresh air ventilation or use the air conditioning sparingly. You can minimize AC use by opening windows at lower speeds and using the climate control system strategically.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Excess cargo adds to the vehicle’s overall weight, requiring the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Remove any items you don’t need on a regular basis, such as sports equipment or tools, to improve fuel efficiency. This is important for the CX-9, as it is already a fairly large and heavy vehicle.