Mazda reveals full CX-9 details

MAZDA has released further details upon the unveiling of its new seven-seat crossover 4WD at this month's New York motor show.

Although at this stage it stands as a North America-only car, right-hand drive production appears to be only a formality and Australian sales are likely to commence early in 2008.

Measuring five metres in length, the CX-9 is significantly bigger than its CX-7 sibling, affording plenty of luggage room even with the third-row seats upright.

The second row is 60/40 split as well as offering 120mm fore-and-aft travel and a reclining backrest, while the third row is split 50/50. Both second- and third-row seats fold flat to allow additional storage all the way up to the back of the front seats.

Exterior styling is a fusion of CX-7 blended on to a longer-wheelbase platform shared with Ford’s Edge AWD crossover.

Power comes from the joint Mazda-Ford 3.5-litre V6 (with variable valve timing) that develops 186kW, mated to a six-speed automatic and Mazda’s active torque-split AWD system.

The car will also be available in the US in a front-wheel drive format. Suspension is courtesy of a low friction strut-type coil-sprung system up front with a multi-link configuration at the rear.

Three models will be available in North America: the Sports, Touring and Grand Touring.

Safety features include a roll stability system, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, traction control and dynamic stability control, and dual front, side and curtain airbags.