Mazda Dealership Does 2017 CX-9 vs. 2017 Audi Q7 Comparison

Well, not in silver, but maybe in red, the CX-9 is a tough act to follow. There aren't any SUVs in this class that has the same reputation, but it's an entirely different story if you look at the segment above.

This top-spec CX-9 is $20,000 cheaper than the Audi Q7 being shown. And even though they are about the same size, the reviewer takes care never to say that Mazda is the equal of a luxury car. Why? Because he's working for Morrie's Inver Grove Mazda in Minnesota.

As you might have noticed, the rich Nappa leather and wood trim in the CX-9 Signature are better than on any other Mazda right now. However, it's not fair to say that the Mazda Connect infotainment system is "a lot like" the one in the Q7. If there's one area where Audi shines over its competitors, that's the screen-related stuff.

quatto all-wheel drive is something else Audi is known for. However, this is an area where Mazda has made some genuine innovations... no bull. The latest Skyactiv drivetrain in the CX-9 uses the outside temperature, road conditions, and your driving style to determine when AWD should be fully engaged. Other systems (*ahem*Honda*ahem*) only react to the loss of traction.

The CX-9 features the first 2.5-liter turbo engine in Mazda history. It's meant to feel natural, but we agree that it can't hold a candle to the 3.0T under the hood of the Audi Q7 which, by the way, is actually supercharged.

What I like about this video is that it highlights the differences between Mazda and the VW Group way of equipping a car. The Germans have been placing an emphasis on drive mode selectors that Japanese automakers might have to catch up with. Meanwhile, Mazda is a lot like Ford, a company who's full-spec cars always make the most sense.