Mazda has tried to sell the idea that its vehicle lineup possesses the “soul of a sports car,” and continues that message with the CX-7 crossover.
The “Zoom, Zoom” slogan works for performance thoroughbreds like the RX-8, MX-5 and even Mazda 6 and Mazda 3, but some models—Mazda 5, Tribute, B-Series truck—lack that sporty soul. So when the Hiroshima-based carmaker chose to join the fast-growing crossover segment, it went to great lengths to deliver on its sporty image.
The CX-7’s first ingredient is a detuned version of the 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder used in the MazdaSpeed 6. All the owners who responded to our AutoFile survey put the direct injection engine at the top of their list of reasons for purchase.
Respondents praised the engine’s midrange power, but acknowledged minor turbo lag prior to takeoff. “The engine is quite powerful in midrange; city cruising between 20 and 45 mph is thrilling with smooth power delivery,” said one owner. Another noted, “It really gets up and goes, though there is a bit of turbo lag to get used to if you’ve never driven a turbocharged car before… Driving on the highway I never have any doubts about getting up a hill, merging or passing someone.”
Owners also praised the CX-7’s handling. “The car takes to the road like glue, the grip is tenacious, and there is little to no body lean even when pushed off a highway exit,” one said. Another echoed those comments. “Handling is awesome. It is flat and confidence-inspiring.”
The CX-7’s edgy styling was another strong selling point. Staffers were won over by the Mazda’s unique appearance that draws lots of attention from fellow motorists. Owners love the distinctive looks, pointing out that the Mazda is different from anything else, allowing them to enjoy commutes without having to see themselves coming the other way. One called the sheetmetal “drop-dead gorgeous.”
Those we heard from rate the driving fun factor high and rewarding, proclaiming the CX-7 as a great drivers’ car. However, respondents were equally vocal when pointing out chinks in the CX-7’s armor.
Most complaints centered on the vehicle’s interior, with carpet quality receiving the strongest criticism. One owner described it as a “thin coating of fur on cardboard backing,” while another called it one step above felt.
Some also found interior noise louder than they would like, and the lack of a factory-installed audio input jack for digital music players almost proved a deal-breaker for a few. “When you upgrade to a technology package, it’s a no-brainer in today’s day and age that it includes finely tuned iPod support,” griped one owner. According to Mazda, there will be a jack in 2008 models.
At the test track, the turbocharged I4 shot the CX-7 to 60 mph in 7.72 seconds, outfoxing the Nissan Murano that needed 8.0 seconds and the Ford Freestyle that took 8.15 seconds. The same holds true for the quarter-mile, with the Mazda recording a best time of 15.74 seconds, compared to the Nissan and Ford that each needed 16.25 seconds. However, stopping from 60 mph saw the CX-7’s four-wheel disc brakes lose to the Murano by one foot, 128 feet to 127 feet respectively, but beating the Freestyle’s 129 feet.
On the skidpad, we turned the traction control off only to have it automatically reactivate when traveling above 18 mph. This made for reduced performance with the traction control engaging and disengaging as we plowed around. The CX-7 still managed to record a decent 0.77 g, due largely to the wide Goodyear Eagle RS-A tires. This was also just good enough to top the Murano’s 0.76 g and Freestyle’s 0.72 g. On our tight 490-foot slalom course, the CX-7 matched the Nissan with a 41.5-mph top speed, but was slower than the Ford’s 42.2 mph.
The CX-7 is on-par with and in most cases better than its direct competition. Some on staff think it might just be the best crossover/SUV-type vehicle they have driven. “As SUVs go, this is mostly terrific, and I wouldn’t mind attempting to own one,” commented one editor.
The performance numbers are not earth-shattering but are more than respectable. Combined with car-like handling and striking looks, the CX-7 offers not only adequate “Zoom” worthy of the company motto, but room to boot.
OWNERS SAY...
What sent me to the CX-7 was the turbocharged engine with direct injection and all-wheel drive system. I realize it’s not permanent awd, but having it available for slippery conditions was a must. I don’t like the dash plastics or carpet since they seem cheap, but the body shape is drop-dead gorgeous and it has decent interior space for my family. Handling, braking and overall dynamics are excellent. I find myself driving it like a sports car. Greg Downing, Spanaway, Wash.
This crossover is quick and its styling sets it apart. I don’t see myself every three blocks like I did in my Hyundai Santa Fe. It even outdoes my 10-year-old Miata with its higher skidpad numbers, shorter stopping distances and quicker times to 60 mph. My few complaints involve the speed limiter and cheap carpet, and the glovebox door damper has already broken. The Bose radio is an ergonomic mess, and the lack of an iPod jack is a serious error. Howard Adkins, Paducah, Ky.
This is a great car for the money, especially when compared to its competition. My wife was always uncomfortable driving SUVs, but after a CX-7 test drive she felt this one fit her like a glove. It’s great for road trips, holds lots of stuff and handles well. The turbo and six-speed transmission are well mated. Brakes are strong, but a little touchy. The stereo is excellent, but it should be able to play MP3s. Mileage so far has been decent. Brian Belanger, Glastonbury, Conn.
Fit and finish on the CX-7 is better than expected for the price. The controls are well laid out, but the materials are hard and difficult to keep clean. And it lacks some basic features that should be standard, like illuminated visors, memory seats and a boost gauge. The turbo lag makes smooth city driving a chore, but handling is awesome. There is no corner that cannot be taken at twice the posted speed. But the car is loud, like every Mazda created. There must be a shortage of sound-deadening material in Hiroshima. William Uebbing, Grand Rapids, Mich.
