Always had a good hunch picking my 2016 over other third row rivals. 16/17's are essentially the same except for some very minor tweaks. For those who had doubt here's proof:
https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/2017-mazda-cx-9-picks-up-iihs-top-safety-pick-plus/...
Went to have my first 5k mile oil change the other day at the dealership, tech there suggests I relocate my EZ pass to another location as it might be interfering with SCBS and sensors by the rear view mirror.
