Although the CX-9 resembles the smaller CX-7, the vehicles are not related. With its curvaceous and sporty styling, the CX-9 should appeal to nontraditional SUV buyers. Unlike the CX-7, the CX-9 has three-row seating to accommodate up to seven passengers. Both second and third row seats fold flat for flexible cargo capacity. A 273-bhp 3.7L V-6 powers FWD and AWD models via a 6-speed automatic. The AWD system is an on-demand system that engages as required. Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) improves handling and helps avoid accidents. The CX-9 is exclusive to the US market.

The 2011 CX-9 sees a slight change in fuel ecnomoy.