I know what you are probably thinking: What's this, another crossover? Of course, the answer is, yes, it is another crossover. Unless you have been catching some Zs for the last couple years, the crossover is the industry's 'hot' platform. Expect many more of them.
On the subject of Zs, few automakers have optimized one of the lesser-used characters of the alphabet as well as Mazda has with its 'zoom-zoom' campaign. Besides being a downright fun vehicle to drive, the Mazda CX-7 surpasses the competition in this segment by offering exceptional ride and handling characteristics. All worthy of a campaign touting 'zoom-zoom.'
Probably the single greatest upside to the emergence of the crossover segment is the on-pavement driveability factor which, when compared to the vast majority of the SUVs, is superior in every aspect. The SUV was initially conceived to go off-road exploring. Since less than 5 percent of SUV owners ever leave the pavement, the emergence of the crossover really addresses what most owners need.
Offering striking features and intriguing contour, the CX-7 got its fair share of stares during my test drive period. While the practicality of the utility-side of the equasion often means limited exterior design options, Mazda designers did a great job of delivering curvaceous exterior lines while maintaining interior space and utility.
Outside the CX-7 (my tester was a Grand Touring AWD at $29,585) you feel a presence of speed. I really like the raked windshield and how it pulls together the B-pillar and side glass. The bulbous wheel wells flare aggressively, accentuating the 18-inch alloy rims and adding to the sensation of speed. This is a chiseled and athletic looking exterior that only quenches the driver's expectations once they get behind the wheel.
If you have driven other Mazdas, especially the MX-5 Miata and RX-8, you may recognize the look and feel of the cabin. For starters, the steering wheel is of the Miata breed and while it is comfortable and attractive, it does feel a bit out of scale with the vast interior spaces. The instrument cluster is buried deep in an almost-igloo setting, similar to the RX-8. This adds depth to the dash. I really liked the red illumination, though at times I found it a bit difficult to see at a glance.
Legroom in front and back was adequate. I especially appreciated the side bolstering in the front seats, as well as the power adjustments and heaters, it felt like it held me more in place - more like a sport sedan might. Rear passengers, two adults are going to work better than three, will find ample headroom. Rear seats fold 60/40.
My tester had the optional Bose Audio and 6-CD Changer package (also includes a huge moonroof). The audio system performed great whether it was classic Beatles or holiday orchestrals. In addition to the climate and audio controls easily handled on the touch screen, I have to recommend the Nav system for ease of use and visibility. The more I see these, the more I feel they are becoming essentials.
The Mazda moniker is everything zoom-zoom promises, but SUVs were never this much fun to drive. My tester offered a 2.3-liter 16-valve four-cylinder turbo engine mated to a smooth shifting 6-speed automatic transmission. A sport-shift mode allows for the fun factor to be enhanced a bit more. A big plus for the Midwestern winters, the all-wheel-drive CX-7 will deliver solid road manners in all inclimate conditions.
Though I experienced some minimal head roll in hard turns, I found the CX-7 to be very responsive and easy to handle. I thought acceleration in cloverleaf ramps would be the test, but understeer was hardly noticeable.
In this segment, the Mazda CX-7 has some stiff competition from Ford, Toyota and Honda. I love the look and performance of this crossover and while it has slightly less interior room than the competition, it is without a doubt the most fun to drive and the most capable of claiming 'zoom-zoom.'
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