Mazda CX-7 2008 review

Editor's note: For 2008, Mazda has made no significant changes to the CX-7, which debuted as a 2007 model. One bonus for buyers is that the engine has been modified to allow it to run on regular gasoline instead of premium without changing performance numbers. After driving a 2008 CX-7 Grand Touring, the review below, written in August 2006, is still accurate. The CX-7 still holds up — now against even more competition — in the segment. To see what details are different this year, check out a side-by-side comparison of the two model years.

Automakers are stemming the tide of anti-SUV sentiment with a new type of family vehicle: the crossover. Built primarily on car frames, crossovers — predictably — offer a more carlike ride than earlier, truck-based SUVs. Mazda comes on the scene with one of the best-looking, best-performing crossovers I've tested to date, and it does so at a mid-$20,000 price point.

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Powertrains - Improved Fuel Efficiency, less CO 2 and new Automatic Transmission
Mazda's push to reduce the impact of its vehicles on the environment continues with the Mazda 5 facelift, which features an updated engine line-up that uses less fuel and produce fewer emissio ...

Safety
Front dual airbags come standard, and side-impact and side curtain airbags are optional. All-disc antilock brakes with brake assist are standard on s models and optional on i models. Traction cont ...

Exterior
The CX-7 is comparable in size to other midsize crossovers, though it's relatively narrow and more likely than most to be called a wagon. Exterior features include: * Standard 17-inch and option ...