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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Roominess, Comfort and Seat Variability
The dynamic exterior of the Mazda CX9 is not achieved by sacrificing SUV
comfort and seat flexibility. With one of the segment's longest wheelbases
(2,875 mm), the Mazda CX9 offers space for a max ...
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Operation
AWD provides excellent driveability on
snow-covered and ice-packed roads, sand
and mud, as well as on steep slopes and
other slippery surfaces.
AWD Driving
WARNING:
Avoid sharp turns, excessive ...
City Driving
City driving is the Mazda2's forte. I drove the Mazda2 with both available
transmissions: a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic. Obviously, having
the right gear on hand for quick maneuve ...