A crossover for the track?

Photo: Philippe Champoux

Mazda is perhaps one of the most exciting manufacturers to watch these days. Since early 2003, every new Mazda product has been attractive, sporty and true to the Zoom-Zoom maxim. First came the Mazda6, then the RX-8, the Mazdaspeed Miata, the Mazda3, the MX-5, the Mazda5, the Mazdaspeed6 and the CX-7. Very soon we will get a taste of the much-anticipated Mazdaspeed3 and, a little later, the CX-9.

The Mazda CX-7, which is completely new, is a crossover of the purest kind. It is not an SUV or a station wagon, certainly not a minivan. In fact, the CX-7 could best be described as sporty 5-door sedan with an AWD system and extra ground clearance. The market, at the moment, is shifting into this direction and the CX-7 is poised to be the athlete of the group.

Pumped up RX-8 looks on the outside, plain and mature on the inside
The styling is reminiscent of the RX-8 so right away, I like the design. You

Photo: Philippe Champoux

see, I think the RX-8 is drop-dead gorgeous. The large flat-topped flared fenders and big wheels combine to make the CX-7 look as though it is about to be shot from a slingshot. From the front, the CX-7 reminds me of a small predator with squinting eyes ready to pounce. From the side, the far end of the sharply rising beltline could suppose a pair of haunches belonging to the aforementioned killer. Perhaps the CX-7 should have been called the Wolverine.

The interior is simple but very modern at the same time and, not to mention, functional. The seats are somewhat disappointing with large flat cushions that provide little or no support. What the cabin does afford is plenty of living space for four occupants even though it has seatbelts for five. Trunk space is sufficient for most scenarios although a trip to Costco single-handily took care of what space there was.

What's in a CX-7?

Photo: Philippe Champoux

The CX-7 is available as a FWD or AWD vehicle. The only engine offered is a turbocharged 244 hp 2.3L I-4 also shared with the high performance Mazdaspeed3 and 6. Mated to this engine is a 6-speed automatic gearbox with a manual mode. It has a fully independent suspension coupled to front and rear sway bars as well as 4-wheel disc brakes. Steering is taken care of by ways of an engine-speed sensitive power assisted rack and pinion. The 18" wheels you see in these pictures are standard.

How much Zoom-Zoom?
I was impressed by the CX-7's high-speed road manners. Its handling is crisp and composed. Steering is sharp and turn-in is immediate. The flipside of a limited amount of wheel travel combined with minute

Photo: Philippe Champoux

sidewalls is a harsher than expected or desired ride in the city.

The engine is very responsive; however it does get noisy and raspy when it is pushed. I think this may the vehicle's worse characteristic. I am certain that Mazda could tune the exhaust to make the CX-7 growl more than just buzz. The 6-speed autobox is slick shifting although it seemed to me that it should be rather more reactive when the throttle is applied with some force.