Published by Rims & Tires
Compiled & checked by the site's publisher from manufacturer, NHTSA & USTMA data · Updated 2026-07-24
The Mazda CX-9 is Mazda's three-row family SUV, known for car-like driving dynamics, i-Activ all-wheel drive, and interior quality that punches above its price class. It was discontinued after the 2023 model year and replaced by the CX-90. If you are buying tires for a 2016 to 2023 CX-9, this guide has you covered.
Mazda CX-9 tire sizes by year
The 2016 to 2023 CX-9 uses 255/60R18 on Sport and Touring trims with 18-inch wheels, and 255/50R20 on Grand Touring and Signature trims with 20-inch wheels. The 18-inch 255/60R18 is the most common replacement size.
Both FWD and AWD versions share the same tire sizes for their respective wheel packages.
Best tires for the CX-9 Sport and Touring — 18-inch
Michelin Defender LTX M/S (255/60R18) — the best long-wear touring tire for the CX-9 Sport and Touring. Very long tread life, excellent all-season performance, and competitive pricing. Outstanding value for the family-use CX-9.
Continental TrueContact Tour — Continental touring alternative with strong wet weather scores and good treadwear. Good value against the Michelin.
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Best tires for the CX-9 Grand Touring and Signature — 20-inch
Continental CrossContact LX25 (255/50R20) — the quietest all-season for the CX-9 on 20-inch wheels. 70,000-mile warranty, outstanding wet scores, very smooth highway character. Best for owners who prioritize refinement.
Michelin CrossClimate2 SUV (255/50R20) — the best all-weather pick for the CX-9. 3PMSF-rated, genuinely handles cold weather and light snow, excellent wet braking. Best for owners in West Georgia who occasionally drive through winter weather on trips.
Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 (255/50R20) — sport all-season for drivers who enjoy the CX-9 driving dynamics. Firmer ride than the CrossContact but noticeably sharper handling.
Best Tires for the Mazda CX-9 at a glance
| Trim | Tire | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| for the CX-9 Sport and Touring — 18-inch | Michelin Defender LTX M/S (255/60R18) | the best long-wear touring tire for the CX-9 Sport and Touring. Very long tread life, excellent all-season performance, and competitive pricing. Outstanding value for the family-use CX-9. |
| for the CX-9 Sport and Touring — 18-inch | Continental TrueContact Tour | Continental touring alternative with strong wet weather scores and good treadwear. Good value against the Michelin. |
| for the CX-9 Grand Touring and Signature — 20-inch | Continental CrossContact LX25 (255/50R20) | the quietest all-season for the CX-9 on 20-inch wheels. 70,000-mile warranty, outstanding wet scores, very smooth highway character. Best for owners who prioritize refinement. |
| for the CX-9 Grand Touring and Signature — 20-inch | Michelin CrossClimate2 SUV (255/50R20) | the best all-weather pick for the CX-9. 3PMSF-rated, genuinely handles cold weather and light snow, excellent wet braking. Best for owners in West Georgia who occasionally drive through winter weather on trips. |
| for the CX-9 Grand Touring and Signature — 20-inch | Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 (255/50R20) | sport all-season for drivers who enjoy the CX-9 driving dynamics. Firmer ride than the CrossContact but noticeably sharper handling. |
Frequently asked
What tire size does the Mazda CX-9 use?
Sport and Touring (18-inch): 255/60R18. Grand Touring and Signature (20-inch): 255/50R20. Verify on the driver door sticker.
How much do Mazda CX-9 tires cost?
255/60R18: $110 to $165 per tire. 255/50R20: $175 to $260 per tire. A full set of four in 255/50R20 installed runs $700 to $1,040.
How do I know when my CX-9 needs new tires?
Check the tread with a quarter at 4/32 for the practical warning and a penny for the legal limit. On a three-row family SUV, also pay attention to wet stopping and any vibration or uneven wear. Loaded up with passengers, worn tires cost you more stopping distance than you'd guess.
Should I replace all four CX-9 tires at once?
If your CX-9 has i-Activ AWD, replacing all four together keeps tread depth even and protects the system. On a front-wheel-drive CX-9 you can do pairs, with the newer tires on the rear for wet stability. A shop can measure tread and tell you honestly whether two will do.
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Last updated 2026-07-24. General guidance only — confirm specifics with a local shop for your exact vehicle.