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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Interior Design
The roadster spirit of the exterior is reflected in the cockpit. The facelift inherits the clean forms of the original third-generation model, and updates these with new materials, detailing and c ...

Lighting Control
Headlights To turn on the lights, turn the headlight switch on the end of the control lever. NOTE: To prevent discharging the battery, don't leave the lights on while the engine is off unless ...

Winter Driving
- Carry emergency gear, including tire chains, window scraper, flares, a small shovel, jumper cables, and a small bag of sand or salt. Ask an Authorized Mazda Dealer to perform the following prec ...