|
2007 Mazda CX-7: Zoom In an SUV
Though the competition is steep, Mazda has created a highly competent player in the crossover SUV field with its all-new CX-7. At the recent worldwide press launch in Washington, D.C., Automotive Rhythms was in the house to get the skinny on Mazda’s first real entry into this packed and popular segment.
First up, if you thought Mazda’s catchy “Zoom Zoom” marketing slogan was dead, think again. Though it might be a little played, CX-7 Program Manager Shunsuke Kawasaki said, “There is no doubt this SUV reflects Zoom Zoom. CX-7 skillfully blends sports car verve with SUV practicality.” And this is precisely what Mazda hopes will separate the CX-7 from the pack. After a thorough test of the CX-7, I can safely say that Mazda loyalists and newcomers to Mazda will not be disappointed with this SUV, as it offers a great blend of performance and practicality.
 When available in a few short weeks, the five passenger CX-7 will start at $23,750 for the front-wheel drive Sport model. A Touring and Grand Touring model will be available as upgraded trim levels. All models come with air conditioning; power windows, locks and mirrors; six air bags; anti-lock brakes; and stability and traction control. The Touring edition adds leather trim, power driver’s seat, heated front seats, and a retractable cargo cover. The Grand Touring edition adds HID headlamps, fog lamps, body-colored mirrors, chrome door handles, automatic climate control and leather seating with a black sports stripe. Significant options include Mazda’s Active Torque Split All-Wheel Drive, Sirius Satellite Radio, automatic break-in alarm, touch-screen navigation with voice commands, rear view camera system, nine-speaker 240-watt Bose sound system, and Mazda’s Advanced Keyless Entry and Start System.
As far as crossover SUV’s go, Mazda’s intention, straight from Group Manager of Product Marketing David Sweet, is to “keep what’s good in an SUV and add what’s good in a sports car.” In most respects the CX-7 team got it right. Driving the CX-7 was enjoyable and the SUV stuck to curvy backroads like a Mazda6. The overall steering feel is excellent and the CX-7 gives its driver a good but not excessive feel of the road. Though not usually a sporty attribute, the CX-7’s command seating position is a welcome addition in that it provides for superior visibility, safety and confidence, without sacrificing its spirited driving feel.
 Only one engine is available in the CX-7 -- Mazda’s MZR 2.3-liter DISI (Direct Injection Spark Ignition) turbo engine that produces 244-horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Though a highly advanced four-cylinder engine, it didn’t quite provide the much anticipated ‘sports car’ power that was foretold. This is not to say that the vehicle is underpowered, just not the sports car power you might expect after reading Mazda brochures. The manual sports shift on the 6-speed automatic helps get the best out of the engine. Noise from the engine and tires was also an unexpected factor for me. A little more dampening to insulate the interior would go a long way to solve this.
Inside the CX-7 is remarkably comfortable and roomy. While driver and front passenger room are expected to be abundant, the second row seats are surprisingly spacious and rear legroom is excellent. All instruments are nicely placed in a “double-roof” type structure on the dash and the center column styling complements the rest of the interior. I had one minor gripe with the speedometer, however, because the numerals are unusually placed. The needle is at zero mph when straight down and 55 mph at 9 o’clock. When the needle is where you would think 60 mph should be (about 11 o’clock) you are actually driving 80 mph. Hopefully this will be tweaked down the road by either repositioning the numbers or highlighting 55 mph.
 Another big plus for the CX-7 is cargo space. The center storage bin is large enough for a laptop computer, has a 12-volt outlet and even locks for security. The split rear seats also retract nearly flat at the easy pull of a handle, and both handles are thoughtfully placed in the rear cargo area so you don’t have to walk around to the second row to release the seatbacks. With seats down the cargo length is 70 inches and 39 inches when the rear seats are in use.
For most people the exterior will be a love it or hate it affair. As this is a brand new vehicle and the competition is fierce, bold, sleek and sporty seem to be the way to go. The CX-7’s 66-degree windshield, arched fenders, rising beltline and sloping roof help it to achieve all three. Also, Mazda has added great new colors like black cherry mica, copper red mica, electric blue mica, icy blue metallic and liquid platinum to properly show off its CX-7.
We think the new CX-7 will be a hit. The temperature in the crossover SUV wars is rising.
|
|