STRENGTHS:
Sporty looks, excellent handling and braking, a practical design, excellent scores in federal crash tests
VALUE:
Introduced in 2006, the CX-7 represents Mazda's first foray into the crossover SUV market and was designed on an original platform. The Mazda CX-7 slots between the smaller Tribute and larger CX-9. Since its debut, the CX-7 has gained in popularity and competes directly with Honda's CR-V, Toyota's RAV4 and Nissan's Murano. With the new choice of two engines and several trims, the CX-7 keeps the Mazda tradition of performance and practicality alive and running. MSRP starts at around $21,000, which is about $2,200 cheaper than the 2009 model. Mileage on the base i SV is estimated at 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.
WHAT'S NEW:
The 2010 Mazda CX-7 offers a number of changes and upgrades from previous years. New for 2010 is the introduction of a new base trim, the "i SV", which comes with a newly offered naturally aspirated engine: a 2.5L 4-cylinder gasoline engine offering 161 horsepower. On the outside, the CX-7 is now more pronounced with a revised front fascia, a more aerodynamic roof line design, sleek and sharp lines that go from bumper to bumper, and more powerful and pronounced wheel wells that are accented by a newly designed grille and redesigned rear and trunk. Inside, the 2010 model offers upgraded upholstery materials, a new steering wheel, revised gauges and chrome accents throughout the interior.