There is a grain of car-buying truth to the old saying, too much of a good thing. When it comes to buying a new model year vehicle, there are sometimes so many options and packages; it can be hard to decipher what comes standard versus what comes with added cost. The Mazda CX-9 has tons of improvements since its inception in 2016. If this 2020 model, third-row SUV, is on your list to consider, it may help first to see what all comes with the standard, Sport model.

Improvements for 2020

Mazda has made significant efforts to tweak the CX-9 each year, and 2020 is no exception. Available features include second-row captains chairs, a tad more torque under the hood, and a new touchscreen. They added more USB ports for the third-row passengers as well.

Standard engine configuration

The base Sport model for the Mazda CX-9 comes standard with the turbocharged 2.5L inline-four. The Mazda signature SKYACTIV®-G technology allows for an average of 28 mpg. Paired with the six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel-drive, the standard model sets the bar pretty high in terms of performance. Available upgrades to AWD come at higher trim levels.

Safety features come standard

Safety is a priority at every trim level, so you will have peace of mind knowing that even the entry-level Mazda CX-9 is safe. Advanced front, side-impact, air curtains, and rollover protection all come standard. Anti-lock brakes, 3-point seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters, and brake assist are also standard. Other driver assistance must-haves like a rearview camera, hill launch assist, and blind-spot monitoring are also considered standard equipment. For those with children, LATCH second-row child safety anchors and rear door locks come on every Mazda CX-9.

Audio, infotainment, and connectivity standards

There are tons of great infotainment and connectivity extras at the various trim levels for the Mazda CX-9. But today, we’ll highlight the standard roster at the base, Sport model.

Bluetooth and hands-free connectivity come standard, with a seven-inch touch screen display. You’ll also have the MAZDA CONNECT™5 Infotainment System, which includes integration access to Aha, Pandora, and Stitcher internet radio. It also comes with system voice command and E911 automatic emergency notification. USBs come standard for the front center console, and basic controls, including cruise and audio, come mounted on the steering wheel. Unfortunately, the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto pairing technology features are only available at the higher trim levels.

Plenty of packages to add in the upgrades you want

The good news is if you don’t find everything you want in the standard Sport model list of standard features, you have plenty of upgrades to consider. The next level Touring adds an entirely new menu of extras. Grand Touring and Signature trim levels bring AWD options and more luxury and convenience features, as well. Increase the size of your touchscreen to nine inches, add USB ports to the third row, or take advantage of the newly available captains’ chairs this year. Of course, with each level up comes a price tag. The base model Sport starts around $34,835. The highest Signature level trim can be upwards of $42,495.

Ultimately, the Mazda CX-9 is a great ride, with plenty of options for configuring your perfect SUV. It sometimes helps to start with the base model list of standards first and add in only those extras that make sense for your intended use and lifestyle. Overall, it’s a comfortable and safe SUV, and shouldn’t be too hard to build out the model that suits you best. If the 2020s haven’t arrived at your local dealerships yet, they will soon.