I test drove the CX-9 three times and put a deposit down on a Touring with the Convenience Package. We are picking it up tomorrow and will be trading in our ’06 Odyssey. We cross-shopped against the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, and Acura MDX.
The first thing I will say is to re-iterate jrtoureg’s statement – if you really are concerned about 3rd row space and usability, do yourself a favor and get a minivan. Our youngest of two kids is now 16 so we don’t need that much space anymore. But the last 10 years with the Odyssey were very pleasant. I am very much a car guy but can also appreciate the purity of the Odyssey’s design mission.
OK, that being said, I will attempt address some of the comments above (not trying to discount anyone’s input – just adding my take on things):
Non-tilting seat:
The seat cushion does not tilt. The further you raise it, the more it seems to “lean” forward. At its highest position, I could see how that would be an issue. However, at 5’10”, I have it low enough that it is no problem. Give it a try, but I tend to think this is a non-issue for the vast majority people. I find the seats to be very comfortable overall.
Overall Space:
As stated above, 3rd row space is smallish (even when compared to the Ford and Honda though not the MDX). Ours will be folded flat the vast majority of the time. When folded, overall volume is sufficient for us in daily use. For major road trips where we invariably over pack, we’ll plan to use a roof box.
Materials Quality:
I found the leather quality to be superior for its class. Both the Honda and Ford leather felt far cheaper. I’ll even go out on a limb and say it surpassed that of the MDX. I also sat in a Signature – extra nice!
The plastics far surpass the Ford and Honda. It simply has a quality feel – soft touch abounds. Both the Ford and Honda had far more visibly cheap plastic and many placed your hands would wind up come in contact with it. I’d put it on par with the MDX if not higher.
Steering Feel:
It has electric power-assisted steering. As such, steering feel may seem compromised when comparing to hydro-power assisted steering. Mind you, for its design mission, I found it fine. I will say the steering feel was better than the Ford or Honda.
Exterior Design:
Highly subjective. I like the CX-9 (soul red!). I like the Explorer, too. I find the Honda frumpy and the MDX flat out ugly.
Power:
Great low-end torque. Upper rpm not awful, but the motor just doesn’t scream to redline. That is the well-publicized trade-off that for this class of vehicle, makes perfect sense.
As a 4-banger, it is a bit raspier than the Ford or Honda at higher rpm but perfectly fine. The MDX is smoother still. But again, how often are you approaching redline?
Driving Impression:
Good reactions yet smooth and refined ride. I purposely avoided the GT with the 20” wheels. Here in Minnesota, I am unwilling to sacrifice ride quality on our pot-holed roads for a vehicle of this type. Also, very quiet cruiser.
Hope this helps…
