Still Looking Good

Perhaps a bit over the top when it first hit the streets back in 2006, the CX-7's lines have matured well — especially considering that the compact-SUV field, with the possible exception of the Ford Escape, is looking more windswept by the year. The CX-7's oversized elements, from its flared fenders to its mustachioed air dam, create the illusion of an RX-8-turned-SUV. The 18-inch alloy wheels, which are standard across all trims, help maintain the image as well. I'm not so crazy about the frosted taillight effects, but they're minimally offensive.

At 184 inches long and nearly 74 inches wide, the CX-7 has a slightly larger footprint than most of its immediate competitors, and its 37.4-foot turning circle isn't particularly U-turn friendly — only the Volkswagen Tiguan (39.4 feet) and Saturn Vue (40.0) rate worse; the Subaru Forester (34.4), Toyota RAV4 (34.8) and Mitsubishi Outlander (34.8) require a lot less room.

    See also:

    Lighting Control
    Headlights Type A (Without AUTO position) Turn the headlight switch to turn the headlights, other exterior lights and dashboard illumination on or off. NOTE: To prevent discharging the batte ...

    Safety
    Standard safety features include: * All-disc antilock brakes * Side-impact airbags for the front seats * Three-row side curtain airbags * Electronic stability system with Roll Stability Control r ...

    Seat Belt (Except Center-Rear Position)
    NOTE: When using the center-rear seat belt, refer to “Center-Rear Position Seat Belt”. Fastening the Seat Belt 1. Grasp the seat belt tongue. 2. Slowly pull out the lap/shoulder belt. 3. Ins ...