The Mazda CX-9 will be offered in two model grades, Classic and Luxury, with prices starting from $49,990 (RRP). Both models come standard with seven seats, a 3.7-litre V6 engine, Mazda's Active Torque Split AWD system and a six-speed Activematic transmission.

Both the Mazda CX-9 Classic and Luxury models are equipped with climate control (three-zone), alloy wheels, cruise control, power-operated windows and power-operated mirrors. A six-stack, in-dash CD player (MP3 compatible) is operated through a touch screen which includes a 'reversing' camera.

The CX-9 features Roll Stability Control (RSC), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control (TCS), antilock brakes (ABS) and six airbags - front, side and curtain - as standard.

All Australian CX-9s are built at a Mazda production facility in Hiroshima and have been extensively customised for the Australian market. One such example, the centre seat's 60/40 split and middle row seatbelt mounting point have been "flipped", ensuring that the CX-9's interior works just as well in Australia as it does in North America.

Mazda's CX range caters to families big and small

The Mazda CX-9, first presented to Australians at the 2007 Melbourne Motor Show, joins the CX-7 compact SUV in Australia's expanding SUV market. But unlike a growing number of SUVs, there is no diesel option for the new Mazda CX-9.

Like the CX-7 before it, the Mazda CX-9 will combine value, safety and practicality with Mazda's trademark Zoom-Zoom driving experience that endeavours to excite and engage drivers.

Engineered with the so-called Mazda "Soul of a Sports car" idiom, the CX-9 attempts to blend driving spirit with seven-passenger practicality and SUV versatility.

The CX-9 represents everything a Mazda SUV should be. It comes with ample power, a strikingly, but necessarily an attractive appearance and a degree of versatility.

The Mazda CX-9 is the new alternative medium-sized 7-seater SUV for those wanting even more choice.