replaced!
 

picked up a new 2011 Mazda CX9 touring AWD over the weekend.

We are replacing my beloved 2003 X5 4.6is - it's a serious monster. But that was the main problem - the wife ends up driving the SUV more often than I do and that trend will continue with our oldest daughter getting her license this summer. So it was time to go for a more family oriented SUV and give up on my hot rod. I still have my 07 Corvette for truly fun driving anyway. The CX9 really makes a much better family vehicle for our current needs which also includes the use of the 7 seats availble in the CX9.

CX9 is the only somewhat sporty crossover from all those that I considered. Not sporty in the same way as an X5 mind you, but pretty good. And the ride is really good, especially considering how well they do handle when pushed. Sitting in the garage it looks smaller, but is about the same width and is maybe 6" longer, but sits a lot lower which makes it look smaller.

My 4.6is is up for sale - see this link for more info:
http://www.xoutpost.com/classifieds/...s-estoril.html

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5319/...36081eee_z.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4128/...845974bf_z.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6022/...23c392a3_z.jpg

Congrats on your new ride! It sounds like you made the best decision for your whole family, but it is sad to see the beast go. Mazda's have always been decently sporty. Should be fairly nice to drive and reliable as well. Enjoy.

Thanks for the great posts on the forum along the way. Someone will be getting a well cared for 4.6. If I was in the market, this one would be a top choice. :thumbup:

Congrats! I can't step over to the bland side, but ......I don't have family. Getting what you want when you need it is where it's at. I think your wife will enjoy driving this new ride more anyway. Congrats! :thumbup:

Yes she will indeed. My 16 year old daughter even drove it this weekend before it had 100 miles on it! I haven't let her drive the 4.6, nor has she wanted to. Wife drive it a lot last year, but didn't care for it - too much power for her, and too high profile. This CX9 blends in a bit. Not that I like to blend in or anything, but then again I drive my vette more than anything else during the week.

thanks - this forum really adds to the positive experience of owning the X5 to me. Reminds me a lot of m5board.com back when I had a E39 M5.