DETROIT (AP) - Motor Trend magazine has selected the 2008-model Mazda CX-9 as its sport utility vehicle of the year.

The award from a field of 11 finalists is to be featured in the magazine's Nov. 6 edition, Motor Trend said in an announcement prepared for release Monday.

"We wondered if it would be possible for Mazda to inject its sports car DNA into their first-ever three-row crossover - a crossover that happened to be one of the largest in the lineup," said editor-in-chief Angus MacKenzie.

He said tests showed that the Japanese automaker's CX-9 was "arguably the most enjoyable sport utility to drive, and a great reminder that SUVs can be as exciting as any car."

The other finalists were the Buick Enclave, Hyundai Veracruz, Jeep Liberty, Jeep Patriot, Land Rover LR2, Nissan Rouge, Saturn Vue, Subaru Tribeca, Toyota Highlander and Toyota Land Cruiser.