Used Mazda CX-9 or Nissan Pathfinder: which to choose?
Looking for a used three-row SUV for your growing family? Beyond the usual Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot, you have a number of options to suit your needs.
How about a Mazda CX-9 or a Nissan Pathfinder? These two Japanese models are less popular than those listed above, but they each have strengths that might appeal to you. Let's take a closer look, focusing on their previous generation...
Used Mazda CX-9
The CX-9 2016 to 2023 is a mid-size SUV that stands out above all for its elegant, sporty styling, refined interior and dynamic driving experience guided by precise steering and firm handling. Special editions and truly luxurious versions are also available. What's more, this is a very safe model that has repeatedly won the IIHS Top Safety Pick award in the USA. Overall, its reliability is better than that of its Nissan rival.
Under the hood lies a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 227 or 250 horsepower and 310 or 320 lb-ft of torque, depending on whether it runs on regular or premium gasoline. It has a six-speed automatic gearbox, an average fuel consumption of 10.4 L/100 km and a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lb.
While the front and middle seats provide good space and comfort, the back seats are rather cramped and only suitable for young children. Cargo space is also more limited, ranging from 407 to 2,019 liters.
Used Nissan Pathfinder
For its part, the Pathfinder 2013 to 2020 (there was no 2021) shines for its ride comfort, interior space, visibility and great versatility. However, its unpleasant and problematic continuously variable transmission, lacklustre driveability and overly intrusive active safety features are to be criticized.
Armed with a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 260 or 284 horsepower and 240 or 259 lb-ft of torque (before or after 2017), it can tow much heavier loads than the CX-9, up to 6,000 lb. Ideal for a large camping trailer or boat. Fuel consumption is not much higher, averaging 10.7 L/100 km. What's more, Nissan has launched a Rock Creek edition for 2019, allowing you to venture further off the beaten track.
The Pathfinder offers slightly easier access to the rear seat thanks to its second-row EZ Flex system. When it comes to cargo volume, the Pathfinder still has the upper hand, with a capacity ranging from 459 to 2,251 liters. On the other hand, the rudimentary and more affordable appearance of the decor is to be commended.
A winner, right?
All in all, it's hard to recommend one over the other, as the CX-9 and Pathfinder target rather different customer groups. Go for what you really need, taking into account everything we've just described, and don't neglect the mechanical inspection before you buy.
