Mazda CX-9 vs. Ford Explorer Review

Handling
With their similar turning circles, the Ford and the CX-9 likely handle almost the same into and out of tight spots.

Drivetrain
The Mazda CX-9's engine is somewhat smaller than the Ford Explorer's, but not terribly so.

Utility
Neither the Ford Explorer nor the Mazda CX-9 has a marked advantage in terms of seating capacity. The Ford Explorer outpulls the CX-9 by a massive margin.

Convenience
You most certainly won't have to visit your friendly gas station more often with the Ford Explorer than with the Mazda CX-9, as both offer similar ranges.

Comfort
While the front cabin in the Ford Explorer offers a bit more head room than the Mazda CX-9, there really isn't much of a difference. The ampler interior dimensions of the Mazda CX-9 make it considerably more spacious for your passengers than the Ford Explorer.

Dimensions
The Mazda CX-9's tank is roughly the same size as the Ford Explorer's, though the Ford Explorer's is slightly bigger. The Ford Explorer and the Mazda CX-9 compete for the same parking spaces.

Cost
The destination charge is a standard charge for transporting the vehicle from its point of origin to the dealer. It costs about the same to get the Mazda to the dealership as the Ford Explorer. The Ford requires a lot of gasoline compared to the Mazda. As far as fuel economy, the Mazda CX-9 and the Ford Explorer don't differ much. The Explorer isn't much more expensive than the Mazda CX-9 regarding MSRP.

Warranty
The Mazda CX-9 and the Ford Explorer have the same basic after-sale protection.