Overview
The 2010 Mazda CX-7 is a fun-to-drive mid-size five-passenger stylish and dynamic crossover SUV which incorporates an all-new naturally aspirated DOHC 16-valve 2.5-liter MZR four-cylinder engine mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The existing MZR 2.3-liter DISI Turbo (Direct injection DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder) engine is still offered in the upper trim levels. The i and s engine designators are now part of the CX-7 lineup and SV trim level has been introduced. The SV and Sport trims are only available with FWD.
The 2010 Mazda CX-7 is available in CX-7 i SV (FWD), CX-7 i Sport (FWD), CX-7 s Touring (FWD and AWD) and CX-7 s Grand Touring trims (FWD and AWD). A marked departure from the traditional SUVs, the CX-7 made its debut at the 2009 Canadian International Auto Show and first appeared in the United States at the New York International Auto Show.
Powertrain And Performance
For 2010, the CX-7 adopts Mazda's MZR 2.5-liter engine known for its excellent fuel economy and drivability. The 2.5-liter DOHC inline-four engine pumps out 161 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and offers maximum torque of 161 lb-ft at 3,500 rpm. When mated to a light-weight, efficient, five-speed automatic transmission and utilizing a front-wheel-drive layout, this new powertrain yielded fuel economy of 20/28 mpg (city/highway) in preliminary tests. This drivetrain combination is available on the i SV and i Sport models only, and only with front-wheel-drive.
The CX-7 also is powered by an award-winning 2.3L DISI (Direct Injection Spark Ignition) turbo engine that produces up to an enthusiastic 244 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque at only 2,500 rpm. A six-speed Sport AT automatic transmission provides full manual control demanded by assertive drivers. Two drivelines are offered with the DISI turbo engine: Front-Wheel Drive or Mazda's Active Torque-Split All-Wheel- Drive.
Build And Styling
The CX-7 has been redesigned for 2010. The exterior now features new fascias including a revised lower front grille with a larger five-point grille similar in appearance, automatic on/off headlights, front fog lamp bezels, rear bumper, non-privacy tint rear glass (SV), single exhaust (SV and Sport) 17-inch alloy wheels (SV and Sport), 19-inch alloy, redesigned 18-inch wheels and rain sensing wipers on Grand Touring.
The interior sports a highly refined cabin. A new steering wheel with integrated mounted controls for the audio, Bluetooth telephone and cruise-control is a key feature. The new Multi Information Display (MID) now offers navigation (standard on Grand Touring trim), trip computer functions, rear-view camera (available on Touring and Sport, standard on Grand Touring) and maintenance information. There are two types of LCD screens available for the MID - a 3.5-inch monochrome dot matrix screen or a bright, high-resolution 4.1-inch color screen, standard on Grand Touring models and available as an option on Sport and Touring models. Reclining front bucket seats with adjustable headrests and 60/40 split one-touch fold-down rear seatback with adjustable headrests on outboard seating positions are standard.
The CX-7 features new front and rear door armrests which incorporate soft pads for enhanced quality feel and more comfort than before. Bluetooth compatibility (all models except SV), which provides a wireless connection for Bluetooth -compatible mobile phones and portable audio devices is among the advanced equipment introduced.
A 4-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system (modular) with Automatic Level Control (ALC), MP3 capability and digital clock is standard. An AM/FM and In-dash 6-disc CD changer with a 9-speaker Bose audio sound system with Centerpoint and AudioPilot and Compact Navigation System with Rear View Camera is standard on the Grand Touring.
Safety Features
Front side impact air bags and side air curtains (front and rear) with roll-over protection, engine immobilizer anti-theft system, advanced front airbags, tire pressuring monitoring system, side-impact door beams, fold-away brake pedal assembly and LATCH are among the standard safety features. A Blind Spot Monitoring System, similar to the one found on the MAZDA6 and CX-9 is now available to help the driver avoid collisions with other vehicles when changing lanes or merging with traffic.
All 2010 Mazdas come with a roadside assistance program. In addition, a comprehensive three-year/36,000-mile warranty covers every part on the vehicle except those subject to normal wear. Also, all 2010 models receive a five-year/60,000 mile powertrain warranty and a five-year/unlimited-mileage corrosion warranty.
