Mazda CX-7
Expert Rating:
What is it?
Mazda reckons it has got a segment-buster on its hands with the CX-7, but really it's little different a proposition to a number of road-biased SUV/crossover offerings out there from rival manufacturers. The most obvious alternative is Volvo's XC60, the Mazda perhaps a more leftfield choice than the Swede and possibly more interesting because of it. Introduced in 2006, the original had limited appeal due to a petrol-only engine offering, but along with a styling refresh inside and out Mazda has popped a far more sensible 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine under the CX-7's bonnet.
Is it any good?
Engine aside the CX-7 has always impressed on the road, for interior space and standard equipment. This revised model builds on this, not just by offering the engine it should have always had, but by refreshing the styling to fit Mazda's current range look and adding equipment and refinement. The key though has to be the introduction of the diesel engine, which develops a healthy 171bhp from its 2.2-litres. With plenty of torque from low revs it does a very convincing job in the CX-7, any thoughts that it might be overwhelmed by the size of the CX-7 curtailed as soon as you pull away.
The clock says it takes 11.3 seconds to reach 62mph, but really the more relevant figure here is the turbodiesel's ability to return 37.7mpg on the official combined cycle. It's a quiet performer too, Mazda's changes incorporating a slightly more rigid structure and thicker noise deadening - and more of it. The chassis revisions include altered damper rates, the CX-7 impressing with its flat cornering, fine body control and smooth riding composure. The steering is a bit short on feel and the gearbox isn't the slickest out there, but with the flexibility of the engine more often than not you'll skip a good number of ratios in the six-speed gearbox and use the ample torque to haul the CX-7 along.
Equipment levels are generous, the CX-7 coming in one fully-loaded guise. Standard kit includes climate control, leather upholstery, a rear-view lane change assist system, rear-view camera, satellite navigation, Bluetooth telephony with music streaming connection, heated front seats and a Bose audio system. For around £26,000 it represents decent value indeed. The engine isn't the only change either, Mazda's stylists also revising the CX-7 inside and out with its new family look; chrome highlights and revised bumpers feature outside and a smarter central fascia and steering wheel lift the interior. It's spacious as ever inside, the CX-7 offering plenty of room for adult rear passengers, while the boot will swallow masses of luggage.
Should I call the bank manager?
If you're after a smart-looking, capable family car then perhaps you should. The CX-7 might not be an obvious choice among its rivals, but that doesn't mean it's not a good one. Indeed, with its fine driving dynamics, neat styling inside and out, plentiful space and punchy turbodiesel engine it's a very appealing choice. Add the inevitable individuality it'll bring and comprehensive standard equipment levels and the CX-7 is a desirable choice.
Summary
The CX-7 was always a good car crying out for an engine to suit the needs of UK buyers. With the replacement of the 2.3-litre petrol engine with a punchy 2.2-litre turbodiesel Mazda has created an appealing car. Driving well, looking smart and coming with a long standard equipment list the CX-7 is finally a contender. And one that's difficult to ignore.
