The Mazda CX-7 is sporty and svelte yet functional, roomy, and comfortable. Designed to compete with the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV-4, the CX-7 is a sporty five-passenger vehicle that will haul nearly as much stuff as it does people. It features a powerful yet frugal turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a six-speed automatic transmission.The Mazda CX-7 offers seating for five, decent cargo space, a comprehensive set of safety features and distinctive looks. We found it fun to drive, with responsive handling and good high-speed stability. Though pricier than the prime opposition, the CX-7 excels in ride and handling.
Mazda introduced the CX-7 for 2007 as a totally new crossover utility vehicle to compete against the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, among others. Crossovers, as they're called, have become the hottest segment in the auto industry. They combine the high seating position and cargo capacity of a truck-based sport utility vehicle with the agility, smoothness and fuel economy of a car. And they avoid the image of a minivan or station wagon.