2008 Mazda CX-7 Review

The CX-7 is a compact CUV that debuted in 2007. Like every Mazda, it aims to deliver a sporty look and feel from the driveway to the parkway. It features an adapted version of the turbocharged engine found in the MAZDA6.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Mazda CX-7 offers a high performance, stylish alternative to the typically bland CUV. True to its maker, it keeps a sports-car like feel, while still being practical. Although it no longer requires premium fuel, it is recommended, and as thirsty as it is, you're sure to go through a lot of it. But there's nothing else quite like it at this price range.

What's New For 2008:

Premium fuel is no longer mandatory, but it is recommended. Three trims are available: Sport, Touring and Grand Touring.

Request a free, no-obligation, new 2008 Mazda CX-7 price quote or choose any other model you're interested in and receive the Buying Advice Team's Insider Report for New Car Buyers.

Vital Stats

Starting MSRP:
$23,750

Rebates & Incentives:
yes

Seats:
5

Gas Mileage:
17/23

Engine:
2.3L I4

Horsepower:
244@5000RPM

Torque:
258@2500RPM

Transmission:
6 Speed Automatic

Drive:
FR/FWD

Fuel Capacity:
18

Fuel Type:
gasoline

Basic Warranty:
36/36000

Powertrain Warranty:
60/60000

Rust Warranty:
60/Unlimit

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power ratings are not available. The only first year problem reported is engine hesitation. No recalls were issued. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The CX-7 earned 5 stars in government crash tests for the front and side. No other scores are available. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags and stability control come standard. All-wheel-drive is an available option on all trims.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Sporty drive
+ Powerful engine
+ Affordable

Cons
- Premium fuel recommended
- Lackluster fuel efficiency
- Less towing capacity than many

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Ford Edge has a bigger engine with 20 more hp, but costs a couple thousand more. The Kia Sorento has a V6, but costs a few hundred more and has over 100 less hp. The Toyota RAV4 has a V6 with 25 more hp that can get up to 4 more miles to the gallon.

What Others Are Saying:

"The distinctive-looking CX-7 is genuinely fun to drive. Practical, too. Those who can't afford a far more expensive Porsche Cayenne or Range Rover Sport SUV no longer have to be left out in the cold." - Chicago Sun-Times

"One of the best examples of an emerging genre." - Car and Driver

"When it comes to crossover utility vehicles, there are many to choose from, but the new Mazda CX-7 is a practical ride filled with convenient features and an affordable price tag." - The Globe and Mail

Read more about the 2008 Mazda CX-7 at the Mazda manufacturer web site.

Published on Monday, February 18, 2008 - Email to a friend

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What do you think?

Road Test: Mazda CX-7
Read User Comments

Deciding to extend their SUV line-up (which consisted of the Tribute and the, erm, Tribute), Mazda built the CX-7 and its older brother, the CX-9. Both have three rows of seating, available AWD and interesting, if not odd, styling. On my visit to the local Mazda dealership, I had the opportunity to drive the smaller CX-7. The CX-7 competes with other crossovers such as the Nissan Murano and Ford Edge, and with both competitors offering all-wheel-drive, why should you the consumer choose the Mazda CX-7? One word: Turbocharged.

Chosen Model Trim:

I drove the Grand Touring AWD CX-7 equipped with the turbocharged I4 and a six-speed automatic transmission. $27,895 was the total price after minor options and dealer installed add-ons. The base CX-7, the CX-7 Sport with front-wheel-drive, starts at $23,750 (although it also has a turbocharged engine and 6-speed automatic).

Exterior & Interior features/comforts:

The first thing I noticed about the CX-7 was the bizarre styling. The lines slope dramatically, making the car appear lower than it actually is. The interior has average space. The driver's seat felt a tad on the cramped side, but for the most part the cabin was well constructed with good material. The Mazda comes with a 5-star government crash test rating, thanks to standard front and side-curtain airbags.

Driving Experience:

This is definitely a turbocharged four. Emphasizing this is the ever-present exhaust note and the slight turbo lag. The turbo kicks in around 2500-3000 RPM, not bad for an inexpensive crossover. The all-wheel-drive system holds the road with noticeable composure - the CX-7 took the same road at the same speed as the Mazda3 I drove just ten minutes prior.

Summary and My Opinion:

Whether the CX-7 is a sportier crossover than the Ford Edge and Nissan Murano isn't the question. The question is whether it is practical. The third-row seat seems to be more of a formality, however the trunk space explains why. Given the features of the CX-7, though, I think I can look past the lack of third-row leg room.

User Comments

2008 Mazda CX-7 Review discusses a sporty CUV.

Thursday, July 24, 2008

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2008 Mazda CX-7 Review