I have a 2016 CX9 Sport AWD that I purchased new in 2017. We picked it up for $32,000 out the door. The sport is the base model, but all the mechanical bits are the same as the more expensive Touring, Grand Touring and Signature models. We upgraded it with roof rails and cross bars to mount our ski pod on. I live in NJ, but based on your screen name, we might ski at the same area, MRG.
The vehicle has been great for us with no problems so far in almost 80,000 miles. I was initially worried about intake valve deposits with the turbo GDI engine, but that has not been an issue. Gas mileage is very consistent at 25 mpg. It's not the largest three row CUV, but that hasn't been an issue for us. We rarely have people in the third row. I rent vehicles a lot during business trips and the CX9 handles much better than most similar sized vehicles. The engine is a 2.5 liter turbo. Power is more than adequate. 2016 was the first year for the four cylinder. 2015 and earlier had V6 engines. The AWD system has worked well so far. We come over the steep Route 17 gap almost every winter weekend and haven't had to turn around yet.
Overall, we are very happy with it and would likely purchase again. I've also heard good things about the new Hyundai/Kia twins Telluride and Palisades, but I've also heard that dealers are marking them up by $10,000 over MSRP due to strong demand. Think I'll wait until the price drops on those before considering.
The only negative that comes to mind is that the transmission appears to be non-serviceable by the average shade tree mechanic. There is no dipstick and I haven't yet found any directions for doing a drain and fill.
Let me know if you have any questions.