# SUV All-Wheel-Drive Improvements Mazda is Upgrading Its CX-9 for 2022 While Reducing Its Price Tag By Colin Smith | Published 2021-12-09 | Autos Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/all-wheel-drive References: [jalopnik](https://jalopnik.com/latest) & [cx-series.mazda](https://cx-series.mazda.ca/en/suv)  The newest SUV from '[Mazda](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mazda-cx50),' the 2022 'CX-9,' will feature an improved all-wheel-drive (AWD) and a lower price tag than its 2021.5 predecessor. Previously, AWD was an upgradable option on some Mazda models, but the automaker is striving to make this feature a standard on its [flagship SUV](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/2026-kia-sportage). The 2022 CX-9 will feature i-Activ AWD on all models while reducing the price by a few thousand dollars off the 2021.5 model's MSRP. The 2022 CX-9 will still have the same features that made its predecessors so desirable, such as a 250HP engine, 320lb-ft of torque, and an ultra-efficient 26 miles-per-gallon (MPG) on highway settings. The 2022 CX-9 will be available in a multitude of Maza colors with several customization options available, making it an [excellent family car](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/toyota-bz4x-touring). Image Credit: Mazda ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.8/10 - Popularity: 79% | Activity: 23% | Freshness: 11% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Autos](https://www.trendhunter.com/autos) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Standard AWD in Suvs:** Automakers can disrupt the industry by making AWD a standard feature in all of their SUV models - **Lower-priced Flagship Suvs:** Automakers can disrupt the industry by offering lower price points on their flagship SUV models - **Fuel-efficient Suvs:** Automakers can disrupt the industry by producing fuel-efficient SUV models with powerful engines and AWD capabilities ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Automotive Industry:** Automakers can disrupt the industry by prioritizing AWD and lower prices on their flagship SUV models - **Energy Industry:** As automakers produce more fuel-efficient SUVs, the demand for gasoline may decrease and disrupt the energy industry - **Retail Industry:** Retail stores can expect higher demand for SUVs and SUV accessories as fuel-efficient, AWD models become more widespread ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Off-Road Crossover SUVs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mazda-cx50.md) - [Convenience-Focused Vehicle Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mazda-cx90.md) - [Rugged High-Tech SUVs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cx50.md) - [Athletically Sleek SUV Models](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/2025-mazda-cx70.md) - [PHEV Crossover SUV Models](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mazda-cx60.md) - [Stability-Enhancing Vehicle Features](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vehicle-stability-features.md) - [Spacious Mid-Range Crossovers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/2023-cr-v.md) - [Enhanced Hybrid SUVs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/2026-volvo-xc90.md) - [Accessible Entry-Level SUVs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/acura-adx.md)