Top 12 best cars for the money

10. Best midsize SUV – Mazda CX-9

Courtesy of Mazda/File
Automotive writers say the first two rows of the Mazda CX-9’s seats are especially spacious, and that the third row can actually fit adults, which is rare in this mid-size SUV class.

Needing seating for seven usually means giving up performance, but reviewers say that’s not the case with the Mazda CX-9. This midsize SUV combines Mazda’s signature zoom-zoom performance with plenty of room-room on the inside. Automotive writers say the first two rows of the CX-9’s seats are especially spacious, and that the third row can actually fit adults, which is rare in this class.

Base models come with three-zone automatic climate control, a six-speaker stereo, and Bluetooth. Trade up to the Touring trim and you add automatic headlights and leather. Grand Touring models are more expensive, but add features like blind spot monitoring and keyless start. Reviewers say those features help make the CX-9 feel more upscale than much of the competition. 

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