Mazda CX-9 Problems

You've singled out two of the best in the class. Others to consider are the Mazda CX-9 and the Toyota Kluger, but it's hard to go past the Sorento and Santa Fe. Comparison information is available if you click on car reviews and go to the models you are interested in.

There's little between the Sorento and Santa Fe, both are very good cars, the CX-9 is also a good choice. I couldn't choose between the Sorento and the Santa Fe, either one would be a good option, but the CX-9 could be the best for your needs as it's a little roomier inside.

The Discovery 4 is highly regarded by owners. It’s a very capable off-roader, comfortable and refined on the road, and there are few issues to worry about. Service costs are high if you use a factory dealer, but there are plenty of independent mechanics able to take care of it for you. When checking a Discovery check for use off-road, and look for one that has been pampered within the town boundaries. If you don’t want a car that will go off-road perhaps look at a Toyota Kluger 7-seater or a Mazda CX-9.

They all have child seat anchorages in the second row, but you're right that the Everest has anchorages in the second and third rows. The Everest would be the one to go for; it's got the most up-to-date cabin and would be best suited to your needs.

Toyota is keeping the information on specs and prices close to its chest until the launch, which is expected in the first half of 2017.

There have been reports of transfer case failure in the CX-9, due to poor lubrication as a result of the oil deteriorating over time. In the USA Mazda increased the warranty to cover the cost of repairs to the transfer case for vehicles produced between 2009 and 2013. The company said it was a result of driving under high load, like towing, or on low-grip surfaces, which caused increased oil temperature. The warranty coverage was increased to nine years. The deal you have been offered isn't a bad one, for $500 you're getting a new transmission, but if you want to take it further you'll need to negotiate with Mazda directly.

I've heard of this from time to time, including a BMW roof that exploded during a press preview drive. Mazda Australia will do a full assessment of you car and provide a loan vehicle for you.

You've missed my pick, and our current Car of the Year, the Kia Sorento. It's better than any of your contenders and a top car that gets The Tick from me.

The Sorento has just been voted the 2015 Car of the Year so it gets The Tick from me. There is an all-new CX-9 next year and a Santa Fe update soon. Today, the order is Sorento, Outback, Santa Fe and CX-9.