The new Mazda CX-7, available as one 2.2-litre model. Picture by Robin Crossley.
ON THE ROAD
Car...Mazda CX-7
Model...2.2-litre
mpg (comb cycle)...37.7mpg
CO2 emissions...199g/km
Price...£25,785
Loaned by Northwood Mazda
THE new Mazda CX-7 delivers a truly unique driving experience, by combining drive characteristics more attune to a sports car with an imposing road-presence and good everyday practicality.
With a powerful and refined 173ps 2.2-litre turbo-diesel powertrain, the CX-7 takes Mazda into a whole new sector of the UK marketplace.
The head-turning CX-7 is being marketed as a single, highly specified model, priced at £25,785 (on the road), in a choice of five colours.
Inside the CX-7 there are numerous standard premium features, including leather seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, climate control air-conditioning, cruise control, electric front and rear windows, heated seats, a BOSE surround sound audio system with six-CD autochanger and sat-nav with integrated reversing camera and voice-activated Bluetooth.
On the outside, the CX-7 has a dynamic 'face’ with a larger five-point grille and chrome detailing, a chrome garnish along the bottom of the doors, a rear spoiler and 19ins alloy wheels and Xenon headlights, which switch on automatically as rain or light levels fall.
With its sporty appearance, the CX-7 is more heavily orientated towards a sportscar in its styling and driving dynamics, while offering an SUV-style commanding driving position and a strong road presence.
Out on the road, the new Mazda combines sensationally spirited performance with strong acceleration and a responsive drive.
The engine generates maximum torque of 400Nm from only 2,000rpm, with real punch from just 1,600rpm.
Together with a five per cent stiffer bodyshell, re-tuned suspension, revised gear ratios and lower cabin noise, the CX-7 is a remarkably refined and sporty driving experience.
The CX-7 doesn’t suffer the compromise of body roll and numb steering found in many SUVs meaning you can push on with confidence, just like a sports car.
Power flows through a sporting close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox, delivered to the road through Mazda’s advanced active torque 4-Wheel-Drive System, offering controlled 'take-off’ under acceleration, enhanced stability and improved traction in adverse conditions.
Safetywise, the CX-7 features the new rear vehicle monitoring system, previously available only on Mazda6 and new Mazda 3 MPS.
This aid to safe lane changing uses wide-angle radar units to monitor traffic behind the vehicle and warns the driver of an approaching vehicle before he/she has a chance to move across into a busy lane by mistake.
The system also detects vehicles driving in the 'blind spot’ area.
Large ventilated front and rear disc brakes are combined with the computerised electronics of the four-wheel anti-lock braking system.
CX-7 also offers traction control system, dynamic stability control, electronic brake-force distribution and emergency brake assist.