How Much Can The Mazda CX-9 Tow?
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Expect up to 3,500 pounds of Mazda CX-9 towing capacity when this SUV is properly equipped. This is enough capability to tow a small utility trailer or watercraft or take an ATV on your weekend adventure. With the increasing cost of airline tickets, the open road is an even more attractive option for vacations, and this three-row SUV provides a comfortable and technologically-advanced cabin. Learn more about this vehicle's performance and, specifically, its towing capacity here.
2023 Mazda CX-9 Towing Capacity By Configuration
Touring
The entry-level Mazda CX-9 comes with a standard Skyactiv®-G 2.5 turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 227 horsepower with regular unleaded fuel and 250 horsepower with 93-octane premium fuel. It also delivers up to 310 and 320 pound-feet of torque, respectively. It can tow 3,500 pounds1 with the Mazda CX-9 tow hitch.
Like the trim before it, this vehicle also comes with a Skyactiv®-G 2.5 turbocharged four-cylinder engine that allows you to tow up 3,500 pounds.1 Also like its other variants, it is paired with standard i-Activ AWD® with Off-Road Traction Assist and has a 20/26 City/Highway MPG rating.2
This sleek-looking option comes with Polymetal Gray Metallic paint, a Black Gloss front grille, and Black Gloss side mirrors. Despite its exterior differences, it also tows up to 3,500 pounds.1
You can tow 3,500 pounds in this trim,1 but you will also find certain tools that will make traveling with a trailer easier. For example, it comes with a Mazda Navigation System that can help you choose roads that are better for your purposes. An Active Driving Display with Traffic Sign Recognition allows you to see directions within your direct line of sight on the windshield. This can make you aware of the need to switch lanes sooner, which is helpful when you have more weight at your back than normal.
Tow up to 3,500 pounds1 in this top-level trim with Nappa leather seats, 20-inch alloy wheels, available second-row captain’s chairs, and exclusive design elements for an SUV that combines hard work and luxury in one.
Mazda CX-9 Towing Capacity By Year, Engine & Drivetrain
The Mazda CX-9 has been a popular vehicle since it debuted in the mid-2000s, especially for large families. Not only does it have three rows of seats, but those rows are nicely spacious, easily accommodating adults in the first and second rows and providing a great place for kids to gossip together in the back. For 2023, the legroom dimensions are 41.0, 39.4, and 29.7 inches, respectively.
You can also fold down certain seats to increase cargo capacity. There are 14.4 cubic feet of space behind the third row, 38.2 cubic feet behind the second row, and 71.2 cubic feet behind the first row.
That being said, while this vehicle has carried over a lot of the same qualities from year to year recently, there are some pre-owned versions with a different powertrain and Mazda CX-9 towing capacity. If you are considering buying a used model or just want to know about the evolution of this SUV, here's a look at its development:
| Mazda CX-9 Engine | Towing Capacity | |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | SKYACTIV®-G 2.5L 4-cylinder | 3,500 pounds1 |
| 2022 | SKYACTIV®-G 2.5L 4-cylinder | 3,500 pounds1 |
| 2021 | SKYACTIV®-G 2.5L 4-cylinder | 3,500 pounds1 |
| 2020 | SKYACTIV®-G 2.5L 4-cylinder | 3,500 pounds1 |
| 2019 | SKYACTIV®-G 2.5L 4-cylinder | 3,500 pounds1 |
| 2018 | SKYACTIV®-G 2.5L 4-cylinder | 3,500 pounds1 |
| 2017 | SKYACTIV®-G 2.5L 4-cylinder | 3,500 pounds1 |
| 2016 | SKYACTIV®-G 2.5L 4-cylinder | 3,500 pounds1 |
| 2015 | 3.7-liter V-6 engine | 2,000-3,500 pounds1 |
| 2014 | 3.7-liter V-6 engine | 2,000-3,500 pounds1 |
| 2013 | 3.7-liter V-6 engine | 2,000-3,500 pounds1 |
Tips for Towing With a Mazda CX-9
We know that not everyone who is interested in 2023 Mazda CX-9 towing capacity has towed substantially before. Maybe, this is your opportunity to get that jetski or motorboat you've always wanted, or you find yourself in a situation where you need to use your Mazda CX-9 to tow another car. Here's some advice for making the process as smooth as possible:
- Use premium fuel: This vehicle gets different horsepower and torque ratings with 93-octane premium fuel. While this isn't necessary for daily driving, consider filling up your tank with the good stuff when making your SUV do extra work.
- Pay attention to trailer limits: When given a maximum towing capacity for a vehicle, make sure to regard that as the maximum and not exceed it. Be careful to count the weight of any items you may load into a boat or utility trailer rather than just the weight of the boat or trailer itself. Towing too much is unsafe and can cause great strain on your engine.
- Spread out the weight evenly: You will have an easier time controlling your tow load if what is stored inside it is evenly distributed. When possible, put heavier items at the bottom, as well.
- Inspect your tires: It's important to keep your tires inflated to proper psi levels whenever you drive, but especially when towing. You can also use this opportunity to see if the treads are wearing too thin for proper traction or if the rubber is dangerously cracked.
- Keep up on other automotive maintenance: Regular oil changes reduce the risk of engine overheating and may help lower your fuel economy, while brake inspections make sure you have the stopping power you need on the road. It's especially important to prioritize this maintenance before a large towing venture.
- Allow for wider berths on the road: Give yourself more stopping distance than usual between yourself and other cars. You will also need to make wider turns. Try to drive on the right side of the road, and don't hesitate to pull over to the shoulder if you are finding driving unwieldy so you can check the trailer and reassess.
Stop By McGee Mazda Claremont To Learn More About Mazda CX-9 Towing
If you're interested in learning more about the towing capacity of the Mazda CX-9 or other Mazda vehicles, stop by our dealership today. We love talking cars, and this three-row SUV has some impressive specs to discuss. We can also offer you a no-obligation quote on financing new or used vehicles on our lot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Mazda CX-9 tow?
Yes, when properly equipped, the Mazda CX-9 is a three-row SUV that can tow up to 3,500 pounds. This is usually enough towing capacity to take a small watercraft on a fishing trip or to tow a utility trailer full of landscaping supplies. However, it's important not to go over capacity, so make sure to account for the weight of the contents stored inside the vessel.
What's the Mazda CX-9 towing capacity?
The 2023 Mazda CX-9 towing capacity is 3,500 pounds when properly equipped and has been for several years. If you are interested in a pre-owned model from 2015 or before, it may have a lower towing capacity, however. Modern versions come standard with i-Activ AWD® with Off-road Traction Assist, but previously, FWD was offered. Therefore, ask for specific specs from our knowledgeable team.
Can you tow a camper with a Mazda CX-9?
You can likely tow a small travel trailer with a Mazda CX-9, as some of these can weigh less than 3,000 pounds. However, you should make sure that it and whatever contents are inside it weigh less than 3,500 pounds before going on your trip. Towing more than your vehicle can handle is a safety risk and can cause unnecessary harm to your engine.
Can the Mazda CX-9 tow a boat?
You can use a Mazda CX-9 to tow a boat weighing less than 3,500 pounds when it is properly equipped. This amount can encompass some fishing boats and ski boats, adding to the fun of your weekend getaways. However, make sure the weight of both the boat and the gear it contains does not exceed the recommended limits for the health of your family and SUV.
What's included in the Mazda CX-9 towing package?
Earlier iterations of this three-row SUV required a Mazda CX-9 towing package to increase the vehicle's towing capacity from 2,000 pounds to 3,500 pounds.1 Today, all versions of the Mazda CX-9 can tow 3,500 pounds.1 They come with a Class II-rated receiver. To learn how to properly equip your vehicle for towing, talk to our team of experts.
1Towing capacities shown are maximums and must be reduced by the weight of any passenger, cargo hitch or optional equipment in the towing vehicle. Please refer to vehicle Owner's Manual for details regarding towing capacities and other valuable information. Towing a trailer will have an effect on the vehicle’s handling, braking, durability, performance and driving economy. For specific information on recommended or required equipment, see your Mazda Dealer. Hitches are available through manufacturers other than Mazda.
2EPA-estimated mileage. Actual results will vary.
