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:

    When Bluetooth Hands-Free cannot be used
    Bluetooth Hands-Free cannot be used under the following conditions: - The mobile telephone is outside of the communication area. - The mobile telephone has a malfunction. - The mobile telephone ...

    Automatic Transaxle Controls
    Various Lockouts: Indicates that you must depress the brake pedal to shift (The ignition switch must be in the ON position). Indicates the shift lever can be shifted freely into any position. ...

    Accessory Sockets
    The ignition switch must be in the ACC or ON position. Only use genuine Mazda accessories or the equivalent requiring no greater than 120 W (DC 12 V, 10 A). The accessory socket is in the center ...