Tips on Buying Cars: SUV purchase, subaru tribeca, honda pilot

Question
Dear Jeff,

My husband and I (no kids) are trying to choose between a Mazda CX-9 and Honda Pilot. Honda is known for its reliability, but since the Mazda was launched only in Feb 2007, there are no ratings available right now.

We really like the Mazda (interiors, exteriors, feel of the drive, financing incentives etc) but are concerned about the quality of the vehicle as such in the long run.

What would you suggest?

Thanks for your patience.

Sowmya

Answer
According to the December 2007 issue of Consumer Reports, page 6, there is now enough data on both the Mazda CX-7 and CX-9 to say they're unreliable.  No specific info or complaints, just that statement.  Mazdas usually do well, and I've always felt that they should sell better in this country.  The Pilot is a fine vehicle, but it's always come across to me as, well, boring.  And the third seat is practically worthless.  As an alternative, have you considered the Subaru Tribeca?  The interior is as rich as they get (I thought I was sitting in a Lexus), and they've fixed the weird exterior by restyling it.