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:

Immobilizer System (with Advanced Key)
The immobilizer system allows the engine to start only with an advanced key the system recognizes. If someone attempts to start the engine with an unrecognized advanced key, the engine will not s ...

Front Seat Belt Pretensioner and Load Limiting Systems
For optimum protection, the driver and front passenger seat belts are equipped with pretensioner and load limiting systems. For both these systems to work properly you must wear the seat belt pro ...

LATCH Child-Restraint System
Your Mazda is equipped with LATCH lower anchors for attachment of specially designed LATCH child-restraint systems behind the passenger seat that slide through the passenger seat when it is in t ...