Mazda CX-7 (07 on) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Last Updated: 12 February 2010
Mazda's CX-7 is a family car that combines 4x4 looks with an engaging driving experience akin to its sportier models. It certainly looks distinctive and more athletic than traditional off roaders while the 260bhp petrol engine (borrowed from the high performance Mazda 6 MPS) gives it the performance to back-up those good looks. It's great to drive too and feels like a sporty saloon rather than a 4x4 with responsive steering and excellent body control. In November 2009, Mazda dropped the petrol engine in favour of a 2.2-litre diesel engine with a manual gearbox. It also refreshed the front end with a touch of chrome and new side lights. The diesel-powered version still offers good performance and improves fuel consumption to 38mpg compared to the petrol’s 28mpg. The CX-7 also gained extra safety kit including Mazda’s useful blind spot indicator system.
4 out of 5

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3 out of 5

Buying new

Supply is limited so getting a discount could be difficult. The only factory option is metallic paint, while dealer accessories include parking sensors which gives you little to bargain with. However, the CX-7 is well equipped with plenty of kit including Bluetooth, a BOSE stereo system with a six-CD changer and integrated sat nav.

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3.5 out of 5

Buying used

Numbers on the used market are low, equipment levels are high and the CX-7 is an attractive vehicle that is practical and good to drive, so used prices will be fairly strong. The diesel version launched in Nov 2009 replaced the petrol version and is more desirable. It will hold onto its value better too. It's not very common so it may take a while to find the right car - aim for one with sat nav fitted (it's standard on the diesel but not the earlier petrol) and avoid the black unless you really like the colour as it's the only non-metallic paint choice.

  • Boot/Load Space Mazda CX-7 (07 on)
  • Interior Mazda CX-7 (07 on)

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See 42 used Mazda CX-7s for sale, starting at £7,995

3 out of 5

Selling

The CX-7 will be a relatively rare sight on UK roads, but it should still be appealing to people who want a practical family car that isn't ponderous to drive like many 4x4s are. Diesel versions will be much easier to sell on thanks to decent performance and much better fuel consumption than the earlier petrol model.