At the 2005 Detroit Motor Show, Mazda wowed us with the MX-Crossport concept car, appearing to be an amalgamation of sportscar and SUV. Now that the crossover market has proven to be a strong one, it is no surprise to bear witness to the launch of the production version of this concept. In Detroit this year, Mazda showed us the CX-7, and sales start in the US this spring.

Though there was no word at the show, we would be surprised if Mazda did not bring the new CX-7 to Europe. It shares its high-riding platform with the Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX, but is distinctly sportier than either if its American cousins. At the front in particular, the CX-7 uses design cues from the RX-8 coupe and the latest MX-5 roadster to reduce the visual bulk.

Under that sculpted bonnet lies a version of the MPS sports saloon's 2.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine. In the CX-7, this engine develops 244bhp and thanks to the charge cooling effect of direct injection has a healthy chunk of torque too, giving the CX-7 decent performance. The show car featured a six-speed automatic, though if the car came to Europe we are certain there would be a six-speed manual option. Buyers can choose between front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive variants and three trim levels, all fitted with a host of active and passive safety equipment as standard.

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