Texas Auto Writers Association Names 2016 Mazda CX-9 Full-size CUV Winner at 26th Annual Texas Truck Rodeo
More than 70 automotive journalists from across the country gathered at Longhorn River Ranch in Dripping Springs, Texas, for the Texas Auto Writers Association’s (TAWA) annual Texas Truck Rodeo. Over the two-day event, more than 70 vehicles were evaluated in 17 competitive categories, with the all-new 2016 Mazda CX-9 taking home top prize in the full-size CUV segment.
“Mazda’s all-new CX-9 earned class-leading marks from our judges particularly in exterior styling, premium interior finishes, the performance of the new SKYACTIV-G 2.5T powertrain and overall personal appeal in the highly competitive full-size CUV category,” said Nic Phillips, Texas Auto Writers Association President. “Mazda’s CX-9 is a combination of sleek style with exciting, driver rewarding dynamics and family efficiency which makes for an award winning package, one that carried the CX-9 to be our runner-up for the overall CUV of Texas award.”
In the decade since the first Mazda CX-9 made its world debut, it has transformed the full-size CUV segment and is the brand’s grandest expression of KODO – Soul of Motion design. The 2016 model year offers innovative technologies, premium and authentic materials and is simply fun to drive with a focus on overall driver experience.
The Texas Truck Rodeo win comes on the heels of the announcement that the 2016 Mazda CX-9 made the shortlist of nominees for the 2017 World Car of the Year. It’s great momentum for the Mazda brand considering the 2016 MX-5 won two awards for World Car of the Year and World Car Design of the Year earlier this year.
Mazda North American Operations is proud of its award-winning vehicle line-up. The 2016 model year vehicles have already earned more than 100 industry accolades.