Mazda updates CX-9 and adds a new flagship

MAZDA Australia has bolstered its native CX-9 line-up with the addition of a brand new flagship and mid-range ‘sports activities’ mannequin in addition to the restricted a hundredth Anniversary Particular Version as a part of a refined 2021 model-year replace.

The flagship has been dubbed the Azami LE and in contrast to the remainder of the vary, it’s accessible completely in all-wheel-drive guise and with solely six seats versus the same old seven due to its ‘captain’s seat’ second-row.

Checking in from $73,875 plus on-road prices, the LE sits $3250 away from the common Azami AWD and is positioned extra in the direction of occupant consolation than all-out carrying capability.

The second-row seats are separated by a brand new mounted centre console – ensuing within the particular person ‘captain’s seat’ association – containing the controls for the facility adjustable seat in addition to the heating and cooling capabilities.

Because of its energy adjustment, entry to the third row is granted by a brand new one-touch system that slides the second-row forwards after which returns it to its earlier set place.

Quilted Nappa leather-based upholstery adorns the seats and different elements of the inside in each the Azami LE and the common Azamis as a part of the 2021 replace whereas the aluminium inside trim inserts have additionally been given a redesign.

All Azamis trip on new 20-inch alloy wheels and brandish a brighter titanium gray metallic grille end and larger exhaust suggestions.

Identical to the remainder of the CX-9 vary, the Azami LE is powered by a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine growing 170kW/420Nm, all which is channelled to the wheels through a six-speed automated transmission with a claimed gasoline financial system 9.0 litres per 100km on the mixed cycle.

Slotting into the vary instantly beneath the Azamis are the brand new GT SP twins (FWD/AWD) which for all intents and functions are common GTs which have been given some further make-up to assist them look sportier and extra menacing on the street.

The beauty enhancements consist primarily of a darkish gunmetal grille design, black mirror caps and distinctive black 20-inch alloy wheels whereas the inside is handled to an equally sporty makeover, scoring black ‘ornament panels’, purple stitching and new burgundy leather-based seat upholstery.

With no mechanical or notable customary package adjustments over the conventional GTs save for the upholstery color, the GT SPs carry a $500 premium over their donor autos, priced from $63,490 for the front-wheel-drive and $67,490 for the all-wheel-drive respectively.

The ultimate new variant hitting showrooms subsequent yr is the limited-run a hundredth Anniversary Particular Version, of which simply 110 items will likely be provided in Australia.

Constructed to commemorate the model’s centenary, the CX-9 a hundredth Anniversary Particular Version kinds a part of a 12-model portfolio with each automobile adorned in a particular new white colourway paying homage to Mazda’s first passenger automotive, the R360 Coupe.

Complementing the ‘Snowflake White Pearl Mica’ exterior color is an all-burgundy inside (together with the carpets) and an unique a hundredth Anniversary Particular Version brand on the entrance wings, key fob, wheel caps, headrests and ground mats.

Its $72,575 pricetag makes it comfortably the most costly variant of the a hundredth Anniversary Particular Version collection and the second-priciest CX-9 behind the Azami LE.

As for the remainder of the CX-9 vary, all variants rating the newest model of Mazda’s ‘Join’ infotainment system – together with a brand new 10.25-inch color touchscreen – in addition to Qi wi-fi smartphone charging.

Paddle shifters have been added to all variants apart from the entry-level Sport twins whereas ‘Polymetal Gray’ has been added to the color palette for all variants other than the a hundredth Anniversary Particular Version.

Because of the upgraded customary package, costs throughout the vary have risen by between $70-1686 relying on the variant with the value improve getting larger the additional up the vary you go.

Based on Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi, the CX-9 is rightfully thought-about to be the model’s flagship automobile with the brand new variants solely cementing that truth, particularly the Azami LE.

“Mixed with a number of key connectivity and infotainment updates, in addition to improved tools ranges and a few contemporary exterior and inside choices, the up to date CX-9 is a powerful assertion for the Mazda model as we enter 2021,” he mentioned.

Mazda has bought 6167 CX-9s to date this yr ending November, accounting for a wholesome 7.6 per cent of the booming sub-$70,000 massive SUV section.

2021 Mazda CX-9 pricing*

*Excludes on-road prices

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