I'm a car enthusiast turned father and needed a comfortable, reliable SUV for long commutes. I researched this vehicle to death. I have a 2015 Porsche Cayenne, which is an excellent vehicle. I wanted something that was fun but also reliable and headache free-and didn't drain my checkbook with each service bill. After reading the stellar reviews from Car and Driver, I decided to take a look at the redesigned Mazda CX-9. The exterior design took a few takes for it to grow on me, but then I started to really dig it. It's stylish, aggressive and shark-like. I love the long hood and LED lights in the grille. The doors open wide and allow for easy access for child car seats (unlike most SUVs of this size). The interior is what brings this car into the luxury realm, especially in Signature trim (a worthy upgrade). Sitting in the cockpit, you wouldn't know that you weren't inside an Audi if it weren't for the badge on the steering wheel. The handling is superb. It's not a Porsche, but it's as close as you can get for the money. It has almost no body roll in the corners and feels solid and sure-footed in any weather. Plus, it is a hoot to drive, especially with sport mode engaged. I thought I'd address a few areas that others have complained about. 1. The third row. If you use a third row often then get a Suburban or minivan. I keep it folded down and this provides a ton of room in the cargo area. 2. The AC. I was worried about the reports of weak AC being hot natured, but it works perfectly fine. 3. Infotainment. Forget that this doesn't have Apple Car Play. It does the same thing but just doesn't mimic the screen on your phone. Bluetooth streams perfectly and quickly plays music from your smart phone. The voice activated function works well unlike most cars. The overall infotainment interface is excellent. It's intuitive and precise. I mainly use the rotary knob on the center console, but it also operates as a touch screen. This, along with the heads-up display, means you never have to take your eyes off the road. 4. The sunroof. Who cares that the sunroof is small? How often do you really use one? Had a panoramic roof on the Cayenne and the sun baked the interior. 5. Gas mileage. The gas mileage could be a little better, but who cares, it's fun!