Mazda CX-7 Review

The Mazda CX-7 is the sporty Japanese automaker's entrant in the hotly contested compact crossover SUV segment. Like other Mazda products, the CX-7 is designed to appeal to people who derive extra enjoyment from driving. Although it has all the requisite elements that have made crossovers so popular -- including carlike handling, SUV drive height and considerable cargo capacity -- the CX-7 offers a sportier edge. It's definitely a crossover to consider, especially if you're not enthused about the mainstream offerings.

Current Mazda CX-7

The Mazda CX-7 is a five-passenger small crossover SUV. It comes in four trim levels: i SV, i Sport, s Touring and s Grand Touring. Standard on the "i" models is a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four rated at 161 horsepower and 161 pound-feet of torque. The "s" models boast a 2.3-liter turbocharged-4 that pumps out 244 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The 2.5-liter engine gets a five-speed automatic and a front-wheel-drive layout, while the turbo gets a six-speed automatic and optional all-wheel drive (FWD is standard).

Standard equipment includes 17-inch wheels, stability control, full power accessories and a stereo with a CD player and auxiliary audio jack. Higher trims add niceties like Bluetooth, a leather-wrapped steering wheel/gearshift knob, 18- or 19-inch alloys, foglights, keyless ignition/entry and automatic climate control. Also available are a sunroof, a Bose sound system with satellite radio, a navigation system and a rearview camera.

Those familiar with Mazda's product line might recognize the CX-7's design cues right away, some of which are inspired by the RX-8 and Miata. The stylish interior also reflects the Mazda CX-7's sporty inspiration. The cabin layout allows for a capacious center storage compartment, which is big enough for a laptop or purse. A relatively long wheelbase provides ample passenger and cargo space. With all seats in use, there are about 30 cubic feet of cargo capacity. Fold the rear seats down and that expands to 58.6 cubic feet.

In reviews, our editors have enjoyed the peppy turbocharged version of the CX-7, even though it doesn't have tremendous off-the-line acceleration (due in part to a curb weight of close to 4,000 pounds). The base 2.5-liter four isn't nearly as capable, but it's still adequate for those who don't want or need serious passing power. The sport-tuned chassis allows the CX-7 to remain stable in corners while still providing decent ride quality. On the downside, the turbo engine requires expensive premium fuel and returns relatively poor gas mileage.

Used Mazda CX-7 Models

When the Mazda CX-7 was introduced for 2007, the turbocharged engine was mandatory, and this continued to be the case through the 2009 model year. A standard auxiliary audio jack was added to all trims in '09, and Bluetooth and satellite radio joined the options list. For 2010, the 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four came onboard as the base engine, the SV trim level was added and the styling was refreshed inside and out.