CX-7 - a car for all reasons

Nov 16 2009 John Connor

CX-7 - a car for all reasons

IF you are searching for a modest sized family transporter Mazda may have a solution with its latest CX-7.

I won't call it new because other than a different face front, a changed rear end bumper, a tweaked interior and the introduction of a diesel engine, it is more of a sensible update than a new model.

Evolutionary would be an even better term to explain the 2009 version of this popular compact people carrier which also encompasses the SUV and the crossover segments.

In short it is a car for all reasons.

Capable of accommodating all the family and up to 774 litres of luggage this multi-role vehicle is currently being offered with a 2.2 diesel engine that redlines at 124mph, reaches 62mph in 11.3 seconds, and returns a fuel usage of 37.7mpg on average.

Around town fuel use is quoted at 31mpg with a CO2 emission rating of 199g/km.

On the road for £25,785 it also represents a fair asking price for a very well equipped model.

The version I tested came in Sports Tech specification, which includes leather seats, satellite navigation, ABS and electronic brakeforce distribution all as standard.

The usual airbag and anti-theft systems also compliment the upmarket feel of this thoroughly modern interior, which I found grew more and more comfortable as the miles went by. After a long trip I stepped out fully relaxed and quite ready to repeat the journey.

On the town roads it was easy to handle. Gearing was set just right the acceleration instant and the steering light on touch.

On the motorway this vehicle grew in my estimation. It is smooth flowing and effortless.

Motorway driving is fraught with danger. For example I find overtaking cars always seem to hide themselves in a blind spot that even makes my door mirrors suspect.

But on this CX-7 that problem is consigned to the history books, for it has a the rear view warning signal buried in both door mirrors which light up when a car is overtaking.

I was impressed and think that this is one of the better safety features I have found on new models last year or this.

And that is not all the safety first features adorning this model. It also boasts an emergency braking system that warns other motorists that you are pulling up fast courtesy of flashing rear lights.

So when adding up the quality build, the smooth running diesel, the in-built safety features, the high specification, the updated looks and the competitive pricing, there is only one conclusion one can come to, and that Mazda has another winning model in it line-up.