From its bold looks to the class-above experience for the driver and passengers, Mazda's CX-9 has earned a reputation for excellence.

Mazda adds numerous upgrades to the 2018 CX-9 flagship crossover SUV. Among the highlights are an improved second row for both greater comfort and easier third-row access and greater sound insulation.

All CX-9s come standard with Mazda's torque-rich, turbocharged and efficient SKYACTIV-G 2.5T engine, paired to a 6-speed SKYACTIV-DRIVE automatic transmission. Front-wheel is standard for CX-9 Sport, Touring and Grand Touring models. Mazda's predictive i-ACTIV all-wheel drive is available on all three trim levels and standard for CX-9 Signature.

All 2018 CX-9 models receive Smart City Brake Support for the first time, a technology that can automatically apply the brakes in emergency situations below 19 mph. Additionally, Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert are now standard.

CX-9's engaging driving dynamics are a further hallmark of the Mazda brand, complemented by its industry-exclusive G-Vectoring Control, which is new to CX-9 models for 2018. GVC uses the engine in conjunction with steering and throttle inputs to minutely reduce engine torque, putting more weight on the front wheels and making the steering feel more linear and direct.

Besides the newly standard safety technology and refinements, CX-9 Sport features cloth upholstery, standard LED headlights and tail lights, 18-inch alloy wheels, an electronic parking brake, MAZDA CONNECTTM infotainment with a 7-inch screen and Bluetooth audio streaming and phone pairing as standard.

In its newly available Sport Package, the standard CX-9 adds auto on/off headlights, High Beam Control, Lane Departure Warning, Lane-Keep Assist, Smart Brake Support, rain-sensing wipers, heated front seats and a power driver's seat.