 While the CX9 has a nice strong V6, it is far too delicately built to be classified as a 7 passenger "SUV".  Loaded up with 2 adults, 3 kids and a bunch of gear, braking is downright dangerous.  Had both rear wheel bearings replaced(at least under warranty), but then there was an off/on squealing from the rear.  Reviews all comment on how well the CX9 handles for an SUV, an it does, because its really a big car, not an SUV.  The most irritating locking system of any car ever made. I should have thought better when my wife asked the salesman when she first saw it, "Is this considered an SUV or a station wagon!!" After 2 years traded it in for a real SUV (Toyota 4Runner) and couldn't be happier.