MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index
NHTSA crash test of the 2021 Mazda CX-9

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2021 Mazda CX-9

Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.

1Recalls
34Complaints
0Investigations
ABOUT THE MAZDA CX-9

The Mazda CX-9 is a three-row midsize SUV aimed squarely at families who want something a cut above the typical people-mover. Positioned as a premium-leaning alternative in a crowded segment, it competes with mainstream three-row crossovers while trading on Mazda's reputation for driver-focused design. Buyers are typically active families prioritizing a more refined driving experience without stepping into luxury-brand pricing territory.

VERDICT

The 2021 Mazda CX-9 earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 87 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 1 recall on record, reflected in the score.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
  • urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers generally regard the Mazda CX-9 as one of the more driver-satisfying entries in the midsize three-row SUV segment, praising its composed handling and upscale interior feel relative to its price point. Most acknowledge that cargo and third-row space can feel tighter than some rivals, but overall the CX-9 earns consistent respect as a well-rounded, premium-leaning family crossover.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk 15.9%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15173

Index breakdown

Crash protection61/70
Avoidance tech10/10
Defect record15.75/20
Forward collision warning: StandardLane departure warning: StandardStability control: Standard

NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images

Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY21V750000

Risk: A seat that slides forward during a crash can transfer excessive force onto a belted occupant, increasing their risk of injury.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the internal parts of the affected second-row seats, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 4, 2021. Owners may contact Mazda customer service at 1-800-222-5500, Option 4. Mazda's number for this recall is 5221I.

Reported 2021-09-27

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

34 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

6reported crash
0reported fire
1reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsEngine 17Unknown Or Other 6Service Brakes 4Forward Collision Avoidance 3Back Over Prevention 2Power Train 2

Other CX-9 years

Rivals in SUV (2021)

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 15173), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Mazda Cx-9 2021. Class rank 43 of 118 in SUV 2021. Methodology · Disclosure