Around town and where the road includes long gradual sweepers, the tight and composed Mazda CX-9 is a hoot to drive, especially given its size. The leather-wrapped sport steering wheel, which appears to have been taken directly from the MX-5 Miata parts bin, offers good road feel and plenty of response, while the somewhat stiff suspension promises limited body roll and welcome stability. But, damn, that ever-present stability control is a total buzzkill. There’s obviously a need for that technology, and chances are anyone caught in a gnarly situation would sing its praises. However, stability control systems should do their work behind the scenes, and not be overbearing to the point of leaving the driver dead in the water.
