Who makes the Mazda CX-9 engine?

Short answer: Ford built the CX-9’s early 3.7-liter V6, while Mazda now uses its own SkyActiv-G 2.5-liter turbo four-cylinder in later models.

The Mazda CX-9’s powertrain history maps a transition from a Ford-supplied engine to Mazda’s in-house engineering as the model evolved. Produced from 2007 through 2021, the CX-9 leveraged two distinct engine eras tied to broader industry partnerships and Mazda’s own technology strategy. This article outlines who made those engines and how they differed over time.

First generation (2007–2015): Ford Duratec 3.7L V6

Key facts about the original engine and its maker are summarized below.

• Engine: 3.7-liter V6 (Duratec 37)


• Maker: Ford Motor Company (engine supplied to Mazda under contract)


• Output: roughly 270–273 horsepower; torque around 270 lb-ft


• Notes: Used across several Ford models; Mazda’s CX-9 benefited from Ford’s Duratec V6 under a supplier arrangement

The first-generation CX-9 relied on Ford's Duratec 3.7L V6, a rugged powerplant developed and built by Ford. Mazda acted as a customer for this engine under a collaboration arrangement, rather than as the designer or manufacturer of the engine itself.

Second generation (2016–2021): SkyActiv-G 2.5L Turbo

Key facts about the modern engine family used in later CX-9s.

• Engine: SkyActiv-G 2.5L Turbo inline-4


• Maker/Developers: Mazda; engine designed and produced as part of Mazda’s SkyActiv technology family


• Output: about 250 horsepower on premium fuel, with torque around 320 lb-ft (varying by octane and market)


• Notes: Signaled Mazda’s shift toward in-house powertrains and greater efficiency; this engine family is shared across multiple Mazda models, including the CX-9 and CX-5

In short, Mazda took the reins on powertrains with the SkyActiv-G 2.5T, aligning the CX-9 with Mazda’s broader strategy to control in-house engineering and a common engine family across its lineup.

Why the shift happened

The move from Ford-supplied V6 to Mazda’s in-house turbo four reflects Mazda’s broader strategy to consolidate engineering, improve efficiency, and standardize powertrains across its SUVs and sedans. The CX-9’s lifecycle mirrors Mazda’s pivot toward SkyActiv technology, culminating in a lineup where newer models rely on Mazda-designed engines rather than third-party collaborations for core powertrains.

Summary

The Mazda CX-9 began with a Ford-built 3.7-liter Duratec V6 in its early years, then transitioned to Mazda’s in-house SkyActiv-G 2.5-liter Turbo four-cylinder in later years. This evolution highlights a broader industry trend of automakers moving toward self-developed powertrains for efficiency, performance, and supply-chain control. The CX-9’s production concluded after the 2021 model year as Mazda shifted its three-row strategy toward newer models like the CX-90.

What is the most common problem with the Mazda CX-9?

Owner Reported Trouble Spots

• Noises/Leaks.
• Engine Electrical.
• Climate System.
• Suspension/Steering.
• Drive System.
• Fuel System/Emissions.
• Paint/Trim.
• Engine Cooling. Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.

What engine is in the Mazda CX-9?

The Mazda CX-9 is powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine across its model years. This engine produces 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque on regular gasoline, with output increasing to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque when premium fuel is used. The engine is a part of the SKYACTIV-G family and is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. 

• Engine size and type: 2.5-liter, turbocharged, inline four-cylinder
• Engine family: SKYACTIV-G
• Horsepower: 227 hp on regular fuel, 250 hp on premium fuel
• Torque: 310 lb-ft on regular fuel, 320 lb-ft on premium fuel
• Transmission: 6-speed automatic
• Drivetrain: All-wheel drive is standard on recent models

Who manufactures Mazda engines?

Mazda manufactures its own engines in-house, with production facilities in Japan and other countries like China, Mexico, and Thailand. Its Mexican subsidiary is a key player in producing engines for the North and South American markets, while facilities in Japan handle the core engine development and production for other regions. 
Core manufacturing locations

• Japan: The historical home for Mazda's engine manufacturing, with plants that produce engines for various global markets. 
• Mexico: The Salamanca Plant is a major engine production hub for the Americas. 
• China: The Nanjing Engine Plant is responsible for engine manufacturing. 
• Thailand: Mazda Powertrain Manufacturing (Thailand) Co., Ltd. is another key location for producing engines for the global market. 

Engine types

• Mazda produces a variety of engines, including both traditional piston engines and its signature Wankel "rotary" engines. 
• The engines produced range from four-cylinder units to V6 models, designed to meet different driving preferences. 

Partnership with Toyota

• While Mazda manufactures most of its own engines, it has a partnership with Toyota. 
• This partnership led to the establishment of Mazda Toyota Manufacturing USA in Huntsville, Alabama, which assembles models like the Mazda CX-50 for the American market. 

Is the Mazda CX-9 engine reliable?

The Mazda CX-9 is generally considered a reliable SUV, with some models achieving perfect reliability scores from Consumer Reports. However, certain model years, particularly those between 2016 and 2020, have a known issue with a cylinder head problem. While later models improved, earlier versions may also have concerns with the brake booster, water pump, and engine failures at high mileage.
 
This video discusses the common issues that can arise with a used Mazda CX-9: 1mReDrivenYouTube · Feb 21, 2025
Reliable aspects and models

• The CX-9 engine reliability is strong in many model years, with some receiving a 5 out of 5 reliability rating from Consumer Reports. 
• Models from 2017 to 2020 are generally considered reliable, and those from 2019 onward are often praised for being free from major engine issues. 
• The CX-9's SKYACTIV engine, transmission, and chassis are well-established, meaning there is a lot of knowledge and available parts for repairs when necessary. 

Potential issues by model year

• 2016–2020: These models have a known cylinder head issue that can cause engine failure. 
• High-mileage concerns (around 100,000 to 160,000 miles):
  • Brake booster failure 
  • Water pump failure, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed 
• Engine failures: A rare but expensive engine failure can occur in the first-generation CX-9s, often around 160,000 km. 

Important considerations

• Maintenance is key: Proper maintenance, especially oil changes, is crucial to the longevity of the turbocharged engine and can help prevent issues. 
• Check for recalls and repairs: If considering a used model, especially from the 2016-2020 years, check the VIN for recalls and any past repairs related to the cylinder head. 
• Be aware of leaks: Be cautious of any signs of leaks or burnt oil, as this could indicate an impending problem.