Mazda's reliable CX SUVs please a variety of tastes

Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the Cruisin’ News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

Sacramento, California -- Driving the Mazda CX sport-utility vehicles is sort of an anti-Forrest Gump experience.

Because unlike that box of chocolates Gump refers to, when you take the wheel of a CX SUV, you always know what you're going to get. And that would be solid engineering, generous standard features and an enjoyable driving experience.

The compact CX-5 tends to get the better reviews in auto magazines and among auto-reviewing colleagues. But it's a mistake to write off the CX-9 (pictured), a three-row midsize with numerous charms, including good looks and a quiet cabin even when the engine is near full song.

My CX-5 tester was the 2.5 Turbo Signature AWD.  The turbo power plant is rated at 227 horsepower, and that translates to satisfying oomph when it's time to dart out of harm's way -- a not-uncommon occurrence on California freeways.  Handling is just-right-firm, as noted by other reviewers.

The tested CX-5 came in at $40,000 on the nose, but the lengthy list of standard features justified that number.  My ride included a power moonroof, Nappa leather interior surfaces, ventilated front seats, a power rear liftgate, all-season tires, a heated steering wheel and a full boat of state-of-the-art safety/security features.

Fuel mileage was pretty good at 22 miles per gallon in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.  Federal crash testers gave the CX-5 a max five stars on overall safety.

The tested CX-9 Signature AWD also pulled down five stars in overall safety, and the bigger vehicle had fuel mileage numbers only slightly less than its CX-5 cousin -- 20 miles per gallon in the city and 26 mpg on the open road.

Another long list of standard perks brought the bottom line to $48,830.

The CX-9 gets the same engine as the CX-5. Given the added heft of the CX-9, you lose a little bit of thrust, but as other reviewers have accurately noted, the drop-off is not that much.  The CX-9 can be whipped around, with satisfaction, when the revs are up.

Given the current price of gasoline, some buyers might be asking: Do I really want a three-row SUV, or even a five-seater?

For some, that answer is going to be NO.  But for others -- say a young family that enjoys camping, road trips and driving to visit far-flung friends and relatives -- these CX sport-utes will match up nicely with their needs.

With the CX-5 and CX-9, the good news is that you're likely going to feel good about your purchase either way.