The first shipment of all-new Mazda CX-9 crossover sport utility vehicles (SUV) is on its way to North America. The car-carrying vessel Coral Leader steamed out of the Port of Hiroshima on December 12, headed first for the Port of Tacoma (Wash.) and then on to the Port of National City (Calif.), arriving just prior to the New Year.

Designed and engineered specifically for the North American market, the all-new CX-9 is Mazda''s new entry into the rapidly growing three-row, seven- passenger crossover SUV segment. Arriving in showrooms starting in late January 2007, CX-9 will be priced from $29,035 for the front-wheel-drive Sport model.

The all-new CX-9 provides unique Mazda design and energetic performance as well as up-market interior with class-leading spaced and unmatched versatility. All CX-9s will be powered by an aluminum 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 263-horsepower, matched to a standard-equipment six-speed automatic transmission and available in either front- or all-wheel drive.

The CX-9 is offered in three trim levels: Sport, Touring and Grand Touring. All models include three-zone climate control, power windows, mirrors and door locks with remote keyless entry, cruise control and a choice of black or beige interior hues. Also standard on all vehicles are a wide range of safety features, including Roll Stability Control (RSC), Anti-lock Brakes (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), traction control (TCS) and side-curtain airbags with three-row protection.

Sport models are equipped with 18-inch aluminum wheels and tires, halogen headlamps, and cloth upholstery. Touring models add leather Seat trim, power front-seat adjusters and, for the first time ever on Mazda vehicle, Bluetooth(R) hands-free capability. Ground Touring models include all Sport and Touring features, as well as 20-inch wheels, bright exterior door handles, rain-sensing wipers, an anti-theft alarm system, exterior mirrors with turn indicators, a memory driver''s seat, Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry and Start System, wood instrument panel trim, indirect blue interior lighting and silver finish for the side surfaces of the rear console.