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.

See also:

Overheating
If the temperature gauge indicates overheating, the vehicle loses power, or you hear a loud knocking or pinging noise, the engine is probably too hot. WARNING ...

Environmental Efforts - 95 percent Recyclable
The Mazda CX-7 facelift reflects Mazda's ongoing efforts to build cars in a way that has less negative effect on the environment. This begins at Mazda assembly plants in Japan, which were ISO 1400 ...

Safety
Standard safety features include: * All-disc antilock brakes * Electronic stability system * Side-impact airbags for the front seats * Side curtain airbags for all three rows * Tire pressure mon ...