The 2017 Mazda CX-9 Signature AWD.

We've made no secret of our love for the Mazda CX-9.  During the holidays, we had and told you about the 2017 Mazda CX-9 Grand Touring, and last July, spent a week at the wheel of the top-of-the-line Mazda CX-9 Signature.  Now, since that was a '16 model, it's back to the top we go.

2017 Mazda CX-9 Signature AWD.

Mazda has wisely left well enough alone with the 2017 Mazda CX-9 Signature. It continues to pack an encyclopedic list of standard features into a three-row, all-wheel-drive (FWD is available at slightly lower cost) crossover that gets an EPA 20 city/26 highway.  And in typical Mazda fashion, it never loses focus on being fun to drive, which is a much bigger order in a full-size crossover.

2017 Mazda CX-9 Signature interior trim.

There isn't any CX-9 trim level that feels poverty-spec, but I'll admit it, I'm a huge sucker for the luxury touches of the Signature. Nappa leather-trimmed upholstery, aluminum and rosewood interior trim...it wouldn't be out of place in a $55,000 crossover...yet the CX-9 Signature AWD's base price is $44,315...a $300 price increase from 2016.

And because the Signature is so well equipped to begin with, the option choices are few.  Our tester had a cargo mat ($100) and extra-cost Machine Gray paint ($300).  With $940 delivery, processing and handling fee, the bottom line was $45,655.

If we were in the market for a three-row crossover, I have no doubt that the Mazda CX-9 Signature would make the short list.  And I'd give better than even odds that it would be the one in our driveway with paper plates and the key fob in Mrs. TireKicker's purse.