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2010 Mazda CX-7 GX-LP Review

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Bertrand Godin
Is this battle already lost?
I am one of many fans of the Mazda CX-7. Since its debut, I’ve had the pleasure of reviewing it at least four or five times. However, each time I found myself thinking that it would be great if Mazda introduced a more fuel-efficient version.

So when I pocketed the keys to my CX-7, fresh from a makeover for 2010 and featuring the smaller engine, I could barely contain my glee. (Photo: Bertrand Godin/Auto123.com)

So when I pocketed the keys to my CX-7, fresh from a makeover for 2010 and featuring the smaller engine, I could barely contain my glee. Mazda had finally heard my requests, and so I set off with great anticipation to meet up with some Ontarian friends in Toronto. My main goal was to improve the CX-7’s fuel consumption. This time, though, I had an ace up my sleeve: the new four-banger.

As I said before, the CX-7 is familiar territory for me. For 2010, the vehicle treated itself to a facelift in the truest sense of the term, as its former shield defender lines have been pulled upwards. These changes were obviously intended to push the “Nagare” design language, now common to the Mazda line-up, a little further.

The rest of the car hasn’t changed much, except for the small additions here and there that only improve an already fantastic vehicle. The cabin welcomes its occupants with as much elegance as before. Its style is still fresh and trendy despite the passage of time. The changes to the instrument cluster make reading information an easier and more dynamic experience.

Extra points go to the furnishings as well, with the GX-LP version decked out in leather and featuring Sirius satellite radio and Bluetooth, among other things. The blind spot monitoring system is also quite practical, as the D pillars aren’t a model of discretion.

So there I was, master of my environment and ready to head for Ontario. I had everything I needed to ensure my wife and son enjoyed the trip. The trunk had hungrily devoured every piece of luggage we threw at it. I was ready for my battle against the CX-7’s thirst.

Toronto, here I come
Straight off, I have to admit that I wasn’t sure my weapons against heavy fuel consumption were up to the task. The engine powering the CX-7 is clearly an excellent mill, as its presence and performance in the marvellous Mazda3 attest to.

The changes to the instrument cluster make reading information an easier and more dynamic experience. (Photo: Bertrand Godin/Auto123.com)
Bertrand Godin
Bertrand Godin
Automotive expert
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