First rate sports cars and the Mazda name are often heard in the same sentence. However, for the 2007 model year this manufacturer has decided to compete in the family oriented and highly profitable American marketplace and did so with the introduction of two new cross over vehicles. The CX-7 premiered at the 2006 Los Angeles Auto Show in preparation for distribution during the 2007 model year. The CX-7 is an eye catching, 5 passenger cross over vehicle with sports car style and a combination of mini van and SUV utility. The Mazda CX-9 mid size cross over vehicle appeared shortly thereafter and was produced for the 2007 model year as well, marking the introduction of the largest Mazda vehicle to date. The CX-9 has all the awe inspiring and surprising performance car details of the CX-7 and its conveniently designed functional and practical features-but then there's more.

As with the CX-7, the CX-9 instantly appeals to those with the soul of a sports car enthusiast and the daily needs of the most of the working class, but especially the thriving and growing majority of middle aged adults. However, the CX-9 is built upon an entirely different, larger chassis than the CX-7 and this larger vehicle accommodates a third row of seating. The Mazda CX-9 will easily seat 7 full size adults and fluidly transports both passengers and cargo with the power or a 3.5 liter, V6, 263 horsepower turbocharged engine. A high performance oriented suspension lends to the sports car like driving experience.

The CX-9 Sport, Touring and Grand Touring models can be designed with beige or black interior and are available in either front wheel drive or four wheel drive. All models come equipped with power doors and windows, six air bags, remote key less entry, air conditioning and cruise control. The base model, The Sport includes halogen headlights, cloth seats and 18 inch wheels. The Touring model adds Bluetooth capability, leather upholstery and a power adjustable front seat. The top of the lineup, The Grand Touring, is enhanced with a key less start 20" wheels, exterior wheels with turn signal indicators, wipers with rain sensors, power drivers' seat with memory and a premium interior design including wood trim.

The functionality of the CX-9 rivals that of larger SUVs and mini vans. With the third row seat in an upright position, the storage area behind this seat is an ample 17.2 cubic feet. The rear seat can also be placed in a down position to increase cargo space. Second row seats are backward and forward adjustable to aid in increasing the comfort levels of passengers in both the second and third rows.

The Mazda CX-9 mid size cross over is a distinctively fine combination of sophistication, practicality, proven mechanical reliability and is more than likely to be the cause of you enjoying the daily commute and family drives just a little bit more.