While there is an ever-growing number of three-row crossovers on the road today, only one of them “keeps the sport in sport/utility vehicle” while at the same time being “the best truck here,” according to the team at Motortrend magazine. And unsurprisingly, that vehicle—the 2011 Mazda CX-9—also bested the Ford Explorer, Dodge Durango, Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander in one of the publication’s recent comparison test.

A key to the CX-9’s top rating was a heavy dose of Mazda’s “zoom-zoom” approach to driving dynamics. Typical comments from MT writers included:

“As a high speed, canyon-carving seven-seater, the CX-9 is severely gifted. It actually inspires confidence when you push, quite unlike the rest of the field.”
“Throttle response and front-end dynamics make it a hoot to take on undulating mountain roads. The excellent chassis smoothes out any nasty chop.”
“Out of this group, the [CX-9’s] entire driving experience is second to none.”

That kind of performance comes courtesy of a well-engineered suspension that boasts MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link setup at the back, with stabilizer bars at both ends. Add in a 273-hp 3.7-liter V6, a six-speed electronically controlled transmission with Mazda’s Adaptive Shift Logic and an advanced all-wheel-drive system, and it’s easy to understand why MT called the CX-9 “the best driver here, no questions asked.”

Yet the CX-9 also offers the kind of interior functionality drivers look for in a big crossover. It seats seven in comfort, with the second row offering fore and aft adjustability for extra room. For added versatility, that second row features a 60/40 split folding configuration, with the folding third row providing a 50/50 split. The CX-9 can even tow up to 3,500 lbs. when properly equipped.

The real kicker? Not only did Mazda’s big crossover trump its rivals, but it was the least-expensive vehicle in the comparison—by $500.

The 2011 Mazda CX-9 is on sale now.