Design on wheels
Over the last three years, Mazda introduced a plethora of striking new concepts. All shared the same design language with sleek, flowing lines. Actually, each and every one of them was bolder than the previous model. The latest, called Furai, was showcased at the 2008 NAIAS in Detroit.
As for the CX-7 crossover, it borrows many styling cues from the RX-8 sports car, which is a true marvel of automotive design. The prominent front fender arches and uniquely stretched headlights immediately catch the attention. The rising beltline gracefully flows toward the back and breaks away under the rear side windows. This bold combination of visual touches makes the CX-7 instantly recognizable on the road.
Though a bit understated, the interior is distinctive and particularly well executed. The materials are nicely matched and the two-tier dashboard is both pleasant to look at and very ergonomic as far as the controls are concerned. Overall fit and finish is in line with the rest of the lineup, meaning no criticism can be made here.
Driver-oriented
The CX-7 is very well equipped. Our tester featured a navigation system with rearview camera. The latter proves extremely useful as it allows you to see what's behind the vehicle when you're backing up. This way, you'll avoid running over your son's new bike. The driver-oriented cockpit offers easy-to-read instruments and simple controls that are easily within one's reach.
Climate control is highly effective, in large part because of the versatile triple air vent at the top of the center stack. You can adjust it in any angle to customize the temperature up front. Meanwhile, the audio system delivers a rich, nicely distributed sound.
Over the last three years, Mazda introduced a plethora of striking new concepts. All shared the same design language with sleek, flowing lines. Actually, each and every one of them was bolder than the previous model. The latest, called Furai, was showcased at the 2008 NAIAS in Detroit.
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| The CX-7 is instantly recognizable on the road. |
As for the CX-7 crossover, it borrows many styling cues from the RX-8 sports car, which is a true marvel of automotive design. The prominent front fender arches and uniquely stretched headlights immediately catch the attention. The rising beltline gracefully flows toward the back and breaks away under the rear side windows. This bold combination of visual touches makes the CX-7 instantly recognizable on the road.
Though a bit understated, the interior is distinctive and particularly well executed. The materials are nicely matched and the two-tier dashboard is both pleasant to look at and very ergonomic as far as the controls are concerned. Overall fit and finish is in line with the rest of the lineup, meaning no criticism can be made here.
Driver-oriented
The CX-7 is very well equipped. Our tester featured a navigation system with rearview camera. The latter proves extremely useful as it allows you to see what's behind the vehicle when you're backing up. This way, you'll avoid running over your son's new bike. The driver-oriented cockpit offers easy-to-read instruments and simple controls that are easily within one's reach.
Climate control is highly effective, in large part because of the versatile triple air vent at the top of the center stack. You can adjust it in any angle to customize the temperature up front. Meanwhile, the audio system delivers a rich, nicely distributed sound.
 |
| The driver-oriented cockpit offers easy-to-read instruments and simple controls that are easily within one's reach. |