We've had the 2008 Mazda CX-9 in our fleet since last year and last night was my first time in it. It was also the first time that I've seen a car with a back-up camera display in the rearview mirror. Neat! Well, that was my first reaction until I realized how distracting it was...
The picture is so tiny that it's almost useless to me. I was squinting my eyes trying to make out what the little picture was telling me but then decided to just actually look at the rearview mirror instead and then look out the back window as I was backing up. You know, the "old-fashion" way.
Caroline Pardilla, Deputy Managing Editor
Caroline Pardilla, Deputy Managing Editor
ahightower says:
12:08 PM, 03/ 5/08
I guess it's not really meant as a substitute for the "old-fashioned" way. Evidently it's just to make sure that nothing is on the ground directly behind the car before you start backing up, and then you have rely on mirrors or turning your head. Which is what I'd probably be inclined to do even if the image was shown on an 8" LCD screen in the center console (nav screen, like many competitors). Still better than nothing, but I hope y'all didn't pay too much for it.
zoomzoom22 says:
12:36 PM, 03/ 5/08
ahightower-
I think the CX9 is available with a backup camera that does display on the big screen along with navigation...but that's on the Grand Touring Model, and this is a Touring model (or it may be an option for both).
I think Edmunds should've splurged for a GT model; I'd be interested to see if the Blind Spot Monitoring System is worth the money.
billt9 says:
01:03 PM, 03/ 5/08
ahightower is right, backup cameras aren't made for exclusive use in backing up. It's only for checking there's no kids in your blind spot to manslaughter.
You must look back as usual in addition to glancing at the camera. This warning is usually written in every manual/web site.
Such as this one: "The backup camera does not provide a comprehensive view of the rear area of the vehicle. You should also look around outside your vehicle and use your mirrors to confirm rearward clearance. "
Or this one: "The RearView Monitor is a convenience but is not a substitute for proper backing procedures. Always turn and check that it is safe to do so before backing up."
For the purpose the camera is designed for, it works great. Is there a kid there to kill? yes/no. If no, backup as taught in driver's education.
jaeger1 says:
02:45 PM, 03/ 5/08
I MUCH prefer the larger backup display as rendered in a nav screen.
Jaeger
tmanz says:
02:57 PM, 03/ 5/08
I agree with ahightower, that is just to see if there is anything out of regular view right behind the vehicle (helps you aim for the neighbors cat). It doesn't look like it is there to actually look at for backing up. Which isn't a bad idea.
The ones that show on the nav screen just add another area to look when backing up, other than actually behind you.
The way some peoples priorities are when they drive maybe they could have it show on their cell phone :)
redliner says:
06:32 PM, 03/ 5/08
Hummer has a system where the screen slides out of the mirror. The screen is still small, but it gets rid of glare.
cx7lover says:
06:38 PM, 03/ 5/08
Well, if they would have sprung for a completely optioned out CX-9, in GT trim they could have a rear view camera displayed on what would be the big touch nav. display.
The difference between the two trims is only a grand or so, and you get SO much more.
cruiserhead1 says:
09:53 PM, 03/ 5/08
parallel park at night. I bet you will love that little back up camera Caroline!
langjie says:
08:58 AM, 03/ 6/08
my backup on my nav is easy to use. the wide angle is usually enough to back up with. actually, I can see from a wider angle then turning my head
redliner says:
04:30 PM, 03/ 6/08
How does this compare to the new highlander, without the nave screen, but with the stand alone camera option?
willin58 says:
08:06 AM, 03/ 7/08
How does this compare with...anything? We've only seen 3 updates in 3 days!