Mazda CX-7 2007

By Benjamin Cyr

Attractive, interesting and affordable.

I recall using similar terms during the launch of the Mazda 3 several years ago. It’s obvious that Mazda, these days, sets itself apart from other manufacturers with eye-catching and solid cars. The Mazda 3, the RX-8 and the Mazda 5 are good examples.
 Rare are the occasions when I have trouble finding flaws with a vehicle but the CX-7 is a case in point.

From all angles, the CX looks pretty and smaller than actual size. Proportionally, it resembles the Nissan Murano, the chief rival. The interior is sufficiently roomy, the comfort level, excellent, the equipment, top notch, and there are few faults to be had with the handling. And all this at a fraction over $ 30,000!

Likes:

• Priced at several thousand dollars lower than nearest competition. It starts at $ 31, 995.  -Test version, a fully loaded GT, retails for $ 35,195.
• Look is new yet identifiable as a Mazda product. A breath of fresh air.
• No different than other Mazdas, it sports a pretty and practical dashboard with superb blue and red night time lighting and no interior color clashes.
•   Handling at high level for an SUV. Chassis never seems challenged.
• The 6 speed automatic, 2.3 litre turbocharged, 4 cylinder engine provides good performance and reasonable SUV fuel consumption.
• Front and back passenger room: very good. Clearance for head and legs: fair. Trunk: spacious.
• Fold down backseats enable long stuff hauling.

Dislikes:

• Turbo response time is irritating, especially in stop and go situations. Full turbo power: too slow.  In short, below 2500 revs/min, there’s little power. A superior low gear torque would be appreciated. 
• AWD works well for paved surfaces but insufficient for off-road. Also, low ground clearance inhibits trail blazing.
• ABS braking system is adequate but more endurance needed when pushed.
• Turning circle, much too wide for SUV of this size.

As you can see, I found few flaws with the vehicle. I would certainly opt for a V6 with more torque but if you can live with this minor inconvenience, you’ll love the CX-7. For urban or highway travel, this is an excellent option. The virtually unbeatable price helps as well.