Australia’s Mazda CX-9 Updated For 2020 With New All-Wheel Drive Tech And Safety Features

The flagship Mazda CX-9 has been updated with a series of alterations for the 2020 model year in Australia.

Starting with the drivetrain, one new feature of the 2020 CX-9 is the Japanese marque’s G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC Plus) system that builds on the existing GVC setup but now also using brake control to help stabilize and ensure the SUV remains on sure-footing when cornering.

In addition, the CX-9’s all-wheel drive system adds the latest iteration of Mazda’s Off-Road Traction Assist that prevents tire slip on undulating road surfaces.

The U.S. Version: 2020 Mazda CX-9 Gets More Features, Starts At $33,790

A series of other upgrades have been made. For example, there is now an advanced automatic braking system that detects pedestrians in the dark and improved Adaptive LED headlights that offer superb visibility without dazzling other road users. An Auto-hold function has also been added to the Electric Parking Brake used by all variants. The tailgate can now also be operated hands-free by waving your leg under the bumper.

Inside, Mazda has fitted an enlarged 9-inch infotainment system while access to the third row has been made safer and easier thanks to a switch that tilts the seat forward. Third-row passengers now have USB ports at their disposal to keep devices charged up.

Sitting at the top of the local 2020 Mazda CX-9 range will be the Azami trim that comes complete with improved Nappa leather available in Walnut Brown and Pure White. Rounding out the upgrades for the latest model year are new 20-inch and 18-inch wheel options, updated vehicle badging, and a new key fob.