2007 Mazda CX-7 GT Road Test

Sliding into the optional leather upholstered seats of my test unit revealed very good legroom in both front and rear positions, notwithstanding a slightly cramped foot well for the driver. Surprisingly, headroom was also

(Photo: Rob Rothwell)

generous front and rear, which isn't often the case when it comes to rear seating. Long journeys would no doubt be comfortable thanks to the tremendous support and side bolstering provided in the driver and co-pilot's seats. Overall, Mazda had done a remarkable job of creating a cabin that feels far more European than Japanese. Delightfully, the Euro-theme isn't restricted to just the cabin; ride and handling mimic all that is Bavarian as well. The CX-7 rides on a fully independent, coil spring suspension package. Front and rear stabilizer bars along with speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion steering add to the agility and composure the CX-7 exhibits in its handling and cornering, and this is where the predominance of a "sports car soul" can be found. I was highly impressed with the tenacity of the CX-7 to stick to the pavement without engaging in useless front-end plow or excessive over-steer when thrown ragged into a sharp curve. As an SUV, the vehicle's handling dynamics are extremely predictable and reassuring. Ah, but at what cost does this athleticism commeth?

The price, as expected, is ride comfort. The CX-7 is not the limousine-smooth yacht that some larger domestic SUVs are; it serves-up a firm, but by no means, punishing ride- and to many that's perfect. For my preference a slightly more compliant approach please, even if it shaves

(Photo: Rob Rothwell)

away a fine layer of handling competency. Partnering with the CX-7's brawny handling is an energetic set of 4-wheel, fully-ventilated antilock disc brakes further vitalized with Electronic BrakeForce Distribution (EBD). A light touch was all that was required to aggressively dispel speed while keeping the CX-7 in full control on wet or dry surfaces. Should physics gang up to surpass one's driving ability, the CX-7 is equipped with Mazda's Dynamic Stability Control System (DSC) and Traction Control System (TCS) to add artificial intelligence to driver's intelligence quotient in maintaining or recovering control of the rig. In the event of failure, the CX-7 has been generously outfitted with front, side and side curtain airbags; and because this is a vehicle that may actually see off-road usage, a roll-over sensor is in place to inflate the side curtains in the event of such upset.

There's not much that Mazda hasn't incorporated into the CX-7 to ensure occupant safety, comfort and convenience. Here's a small sampling: handles that release the spring-loaded 2nd row seat backs are

(Photo: Rob Rothwell)

conveniently situated at the back of the cargo bay, and depending on load, a dash-mounted switch can be used to adjust the level of the CX-7's HID headlights. Along with the usual list of electronic and power-operated goodies, a moonroof and a navigation system are available. My well-stocked GT tester entertained me with an awesome Bose sound system while spoiling me with heated front seats. Low road and wind noise also contributed to the pleasure of driving the CX-7, which in my world is the perfect size for an SUV. If wishing to use the CX-7 for towing purposes, be aware of its 907 kg (2,000 lb) maximum tow rating. With its rear seats folded flat, the CX-7's maximum cargo volume is a sizable 1,658 litres, which is sufficient to hold plenty of camping gear or canine life. On the road, expect an AWD CX-7 to consume 12.9 and 9.2 litres of pricey premium fuel for every 100 kilometres of city and highway driving respectively (18 / 26 mpg US).

I came away from the CX-7 duly impressed with Mazda's crossover vehicle- worth the wait? Definitely.

(Photo: Rob Rothwell)

Strengths:
Solid build-quality
Spectacular cabin
Perfect SUV size
Outstanding handling

Weaknesses:
Power surge with minimal throttle input
Slightly cramped driver's foot well
Sensitive brakes
Firm ride