SAY hello to one of the prototypical family cars of the modern age.

Over the last few years, SUVs such as Mazda’s CX-9 (and rivals of its ilk) have attracted an increasing share of family buyers with their lofty ride height and the promise of potential off the beaten path.

These sorts of cars are big business, and while the Mazda has enjoyed its share of success, it also faces some tough competition: the Australian-made Ford Territory, plus the Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sorento and Toyota Kluger all spring to mind.

Australia was chosen as the first place in the world to show the recent CX-9 facelift last year – reflecting its importance to Mazda globally.

But the question we’re here to investigate is whether a suite of mid-life upgrades give the car enough legs to kick on against some tough competition.

Click the Our Opinion button for the full review…