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Mazda’s all-new CX-9 earns best-in-class fuel economy of 25 combined mpg

Mazda has announced the EPA-estimated fuel economy figures for its 2016 CX-9 crossover, and the word of the day is efficiency.

Thanks in large part to its lighter SKYACTIV platform and turbocharged motor, the midsize model achieves ratings of 22 mpg city/28 mpg highway/25 mpg combined, when equipped with front-wheel drive. These numbers make the new CX-9 the most efficient in its class. That class, to be specific, is for non-hybrid, three-row, midsize crossovers.

Should all-wheel driver performance be your thing, the CX-9 still manages excellent numbers at 21 city, 27 highway, and 23 combined mpg. By comparison, the second generation CX-9 is 32 percent more efficient than the first generation.

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“SKYACTIV Technology once again demonstrates there’s no need to compromise between driving enjoyment and frugality — even when it comes to hauling around your family,” said Robert Davis, senior vice president of U.S. operations. “CX-9 elevates our brand with a host of new, advanced technology and luxury features but stays true to our company principles: lightweight, fun to drive, stylish and purposeful.”

Under the CX-9’s sleeker hood is a new SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder making 250 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque (on 93 octane fuel). Though down 21 horses from the previous CX-9, the extra torque and 200 pounds of weight reduction (300 in AWD spec) mean greater performance and nimbler handling. Unique to Mazda’s new engine is its Dynamic Pressure Turbo with a cooled EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) to lower engine temperatures without adding extra fuel.

Mazda’s optional predictive i-ACTIV all-wheel drive can sense a loss in traction by measuring road and vehicle conditions more than 200 times per second via 27 sensors, which is approximately the same sensitivity as a vulnerable impala taking a sip of water in the savanna.

On a more subjective note, the new CX-9 is one of the more handsome models on the market, so the complement of leading fuel economy figures should help the crossover sell quite well come this summer.

Miles Branman
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Miles Branman doesn't need sustenance; he needs cars. While the gearhead gene wasn't strong in his own family, Miles…
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