Mazda wants to have a proper flagship for its US market, where the CX-9 has a very long reputation. In order to increase the appeal on its high-end SUV, Mazda is introducing the 2021 version with a series of updates.

New exterior designs are met by a high-class interior featuring new seat patterning and the largest infotainment display to be equipped on a CX-9. Additionally, new Carbon Edition model helps owners express their individuality with bold styling. Mazda North American Operations today announces the 2021 Mazda CX-9 will arrive in dealerships later this month.

The Skyactiv-G 2.5 Turbo engine equipped on all CX-9 models delivers a robust 320 lb-ft of torque and 250 horsepower on premium (93 octane) gasoline or 310 lb-ft of torque and 227 horsepower on regular (87 octane) gasoline. The turbocharged engine is paired with a quick-shifting, six-speed Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission and has standard G-Vectoring Control Plus. Mazda’s predictive i-Activ all-wheel drive with off-road traction assist is standard in CX-9 Signature and available on all other trim levels.

New for the 2021 CX-9 Sport is a 10.25-inch large center display with the latest Mazda Connect infotainment interface. The new infotainment has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities and adds Mazda Connected Services capabilities that include a three-year trial to access the ability to monitor and control the state of the CX-9 remotely by logging into the MyMazda app and in-car Wi-Fi hotspot with three-months or 2GB trial.

Other standard features include heated front seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, three-zone automatic climate control, six-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support, Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio pairing, two front USB inputs, rearview camera, keyless entry and push-button start. The CX-9 Sport has automatic on/off LED headlights with auto-leveling, LED taillights and daytime running lights, heated and power door mirrors, High Beam Control, body-colored rear roof spoiler, 18-inch gray metallic finish alumin um alloy wheels, rain-sensing windshield wipers and rear privacy glass.

The CX-9 Touring adds various seating upgrades, including leather-trimmed first and second-row seats, six-way power passenger’s seat, slide and tilt function is upgraded on the second-row bench seating and two USB charging ports in the second row. Other additions include power liftgate, Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry and auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink.

In the upper most trim level, the CX-9 Signature offers all of the appealing driving dynamics with standard i-Activ all-wheel drive while not compromising on design. New titanium gray metallic finish front grille design is a stunning first impression, especially with the LED grille accent lighting. New design 20-inch brilliant silver finish aluminum alloy wheels and larger dual tailpipes round out the elegant and exciting styling. The well-appointed interior styling has been upgraded with new quilting and piping on the first and second-row seats and patterned aluminum on the dash, door panels and handle bezels. Combined with second-row captain’s chairs with center console that provide a first-class experience much like the first row with armrest storage compartment, heated seat buttons and cupholders, Nappa leather seats, Santos Rosewood interior trim and unique steering wheel stitching, the CX-9 Signature provides an executive feeling for all occupants.