Following in the footsteps of the Mazda MX-5 Miata roadster that won the 2016 World Car of the Year (WCOTY) and World Car Design of the Year (WCDOTY) awards, it was announced that the second-generation Mazda CX-9 has been named a finalist in the same two categories for 2017. “We couldn’t be more honored to have CX-9 recognized for two World Car of the Year categories,” said Masahiro Moro, president and CEO, Mazda North American Operations (MNAO). “Last year was a magical moment for the entire Mazda family when MX-5 won, and we’re proud to be among the small number of vehicles voted to the finalists lists from markets all over the world.” more The second-generation Mazda CX-9 went on sale in the U.S. last May and was the final Mazda passenger vehicle to receive the full SKYACTIV suite of technologies, including its lightweight, rigid SKYACTIV-CHASSIS and SKYACTIV-BODY; responsive, yet utterly efficient SKYACTIV-TRANSMISSION; and SKYACTIV-ENGINE. Speaking of its engine, CX-9 played a vital role in elevating Mazda’s engineering prowess with its newly turbocharged SKYACTIV-G 2.5T engine that drastically increased responsiveness as well as torque output while earning a 25-percent improvement in fuel-efficiency versus its V6-powered predecessor. The SKYACTIV-G 2.5T was recently awarded a coveted spot on the Wards Automotive 10 Best Engines list for 2017. Using SKYACTIV Technology, Mazda engineers were able to pare more than 250 lbs. from CX-9 versus its predecessor, allowing them to add 53 lbs. of sound insulation material under the floor for a more refined experience. In North America, Mazda also used CX-9 to launch its new Signature trim level, which heightens the experience with Nappa leather seating surfaces and rosewood sourced from premium guitar-maker Fujigen in the interior inlays. Complementing its luxurious interior, CX-9’s seductive exterior proves family vehicles need not be boring, with CX-9 being the first Mazda to bring the Machine Gray Metallic premium paint color to market. And that design is motivated through Mazda’s available predictive i-ACTIV all-wheel drive that uses 27 sensors to read the road ahead, adjusting which wheels receive power—and how much—more than 200 times per second. On the market for less than a year, the second-generation CX-9 has already won its share of awards, including the largest automotive magazine in Australia, Wheels, recognizing CX-9 as its Car of the Year.