Lincoln MKX vs Mazda CX-9
This page compares the Lincoln MKX and the Mazda CX-9 across the 9 model years both appear in our data (2010–2018). Both are classed as SUV on this site. On its most efficient configuration the Mazda CX-9 averages about 25 mpg (UK) against 24 mpg for the Lincoln MKX. NHTSA lists fewer recall campaigns per model year for the Mazda CX-9 (2.8 against 3.3), though campaign counts depend on how long each model has been on sale and how many variants share a campaign.
Head-to-Head: 2010–2018
| Measure | Lincoln MKX | Mazda CX-9 |
|---|---|---|
| Average best-configuration economy (mpg, UK) | 24 | 25 |
| Average CO₂ (g/km) | 267 | 268 |
| Average estimated annual fuel cost (US EPA) | $3,283 | $3,317 |
| Model years rated 5★ overall by NHTSA | 3 of 7 | 1 of 4 |
| Average recall campaigns per model year | 3.3 | 2.8 |
| Average owner complaints per model year | 89 | 115 |
| Engine options across these years | 3 | 2 |
Year by Year
| Year | Lincoln MKX MPG (UK) | NHTSA | Recalls | Complaints | Mazda CX-9 MPG (UK) | NHTSA | Recalls | Complaints |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 24 | — | 7 | 111 | 22 | — | 6 | 195 |
| 2011 | 25 | — | 3 | 149 | 23 | — | 4 | 170 |
| 2012 | 25 | 4★ | 1 | 84 | 23 | — | 4 | 221 |
| 2013 | 25 | 4★ | 1 | 163 | 23 | 4★ | 4 | 68 |
| 2014 | 25 | 4★ | 1 | 35 | 23 | 4★ | 3 | 54 |
| 2015 | 24 | 4★ | 0 | 19 | 23 | 4★ | 2 | 35 |
| 2016 | 24 | 5★ | 7 | 156 | 29 | — | 0 | 99 |
| 2017 | 24 | 5★ | 5 | 52 | 29 | — | 0 | 61 |
| 2018 | 24 | 5★ | 5 | 31 | 29 | 5★ | 2 | 128 |
MPG is each model year's most efficient configuration (US EPA, converted to UK mpg). Recalls and complaints are NHTSA counts as of 6 October 2026; complaints are unverified owner reports and rise with sales volume. See each model's full history: Lincoln MKX · Mazda CX-9.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more fuel-efficient, the Lincoln MKX or the Mazda CX-9?
On its most efficient configuration the Mazda CX-9 averages about 25 mpg (UK) against 24 mpg for the Lincoln MKX. Figures are the US EPA combined result converted to UK mpg, averaged over the shared model years; individual engines and years differ, so check the year pages for the exact car.
Which has better NHTSA safety ratings?
The Lincoln MKX has 3 of 7 model years rated 5★ overall in these years and the Mazda CX-9 has 1 of 4. NHTSA ratings are only comparable between vehicles of similar size and weight, and the test criteria have changed over time.
Which has more recalls and owner complaints?
Per model year, the Lincoln MKX averages 3.3 recall campaigns and 89 owner complaints; the Mazda CX-9 averages 2.8 and 115. Complaint counts are unverified owner reports and rise with sales volume, so use them as a pointer for what to inspect, not as a reliability ranking.
Where do these comparison figures come from?
Fuel economy, CO₂ and interior volume come from the US EPA's fueleconomy.gov data; ratings, recalls and complaints come from NHTSA. Only model years where both cars have data are compared.
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