Wow, I am impressed at what the "New" Mazda has in their stable. This was always the one manufacturer that has been able to stay under the radar. Mazda's always putting out fantastic cars, just take a look at the popular Mazda-3 and MX-5 (Miata) roadster, the consumers love them. It hasn't been since the new CX-7, did the company ever have an SUV that compared to some of the best. I had the pleasure to come take a look at the 2008 CX-7 and its stable mate, the nine passenger CX-9. Both variations had a lot to desire, and more to appreciate when you have the ability to get behind the wheel and eagerly push like you would it's rotary inspired cousins.
First hand impressions of the new SUV was one of complete awe. Never did I see such a breakthrough look of the conventional box SUV, this one has acquired some of it's streamlined looks from its car lineup. The Front end design kinda had a blend of RX-8 while keeping true to a muscular front facsia. The CX-7 had stunning factory 18 "wheels and a nice low center of gravity to compliment the look. This not only helped with the stability and body roll, but it also made ingress and egress a snap. It's no wonder all the women had nothing but great things to say about that element. Sleek, bold, and clean were just a few words to describe the CX-7.
Secondly, I was thrilled to drive a nicely loaded touring model with sport cloth seating and navigation. The seats were sporty, they had some nice lateral support and fabric was durable. Something a little different than other car companies. I really adored the way the dash was put together, lots of angular cockpit shapes and anti-glare facing give it a high quality appeal. This model was also equipped with the automatic tranny with active select, a feature I liked even more when I don't have to mess with the clutch deal. It was easy to transition all the gearing on my own. Additionally, the stereo system sounded great, the XM satellite radio is a plus, and the navigation was clear and simple to operate. Truly an up to date piece of tech-mobile, and would clearly win shoppers over with the controls' ease of use.
I got up into the back seat, and found the head room just a tad bit small. And that's easy to understand because from outside, it is one of the shortest looking SUV's out there yet, so there is the tradeoff. The AWD model I looked at with all the options short of a sunroof and leather put my tally just a smidgin over $ 33k. And base models click in at a mear $ 27,990 with about $ 37k at the peak pricing. Expect anywhere between $ 1,800- $ 2,700 of wiggle room from invoice to MSRP, so there is a little negotiation to swing plus you'll receive any applicable incentives. A modest price range for a midsize and is easily competitive with similar types.
I'm glad I had a chance to review the new CX-7, it ranks high on my list of SUV's with decent gas mileage and a look that appeals to a younger generation. I'll soon be doing a review on it's longer bodied CX-9, and tell you exactly why its the best compromise to the Suburban and Expedition EL. Check back soon for more reviews !!
