Road Test: Mazda CX-9

If vehicles have a DNA that defines their personalities, then Mazda's molecular building blocks speak the language of sport. Surprisingly, it's even evident in this big seven-seat crossover. The CX-9, with its three rows of seating, is a family hauler. Less apparent is its handling and performance prowess—that is, until you hop in for a ride. A trip through L.A.'s curvy canyons chauffeuring five adults in the back made me worry they'd all get queasy, but the CX-9 has a taut but forgiving suspension. That's rare for a vehicle this size, but not unusual for Mazda.

And the CX-9 is fashionable. A friend who drives a Lexus RX330 remarked that my tester looks a lot like her wheels. I didn't have the heart to tell her it sells for about 10 grand less and generates 21 more horsepower from a 3.5-liter V-6 engine. My vehicle had heated front seats, a touchscreen for audio and navigation systems, and steering-wheel-mounted buttons to control the phone, music and cruise control. There was even an optional backing-up camera (a feature offered on luxury marques like Lexus), which gave a clear picture of the path behind me. Mazda proves you can keep the sport and add the kids.

Tip: An all-wheel-drive version that thrives in foul weather goes for $1,200 more.