2009 Mazda CX-7
- 2008 Mazda CX-7
- Used Mazda CX-7
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Based on analysis of 59 CX-7 reviews and test drives.
Mazda CX-7 - What the Auto Press Says
The 2009 Mazda CX-7 ranks 4 out of 20 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 59 published reviews and test drives of the Mazda CX-7, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The CX-7 is a performance crossover with a turbocharged engine that reviewers say makes for a fun driving experience.
Introduced in 2007, the CX-7 carries over into 2009 with only minor changes, including dual illuminated vanity mirrors and an auxiliary audio jack as standard equipment. "CX-7 emphasizes sport over utility and ride comfort to stand out in a crowded market segment," says Consumer Guide. "Its turbo 4-cylinder engine is neither as fuel-efficient as one might expect nor as smoothly powerful as it ought to be. But there's appeal here for those who need something roomier than a midsize car and want fresh-looking SUV styling." However, while the CX-7 boasts many positive attributes, many reviewers still wish it had a roomier interior, a more comfortable rear seat and better fuel economy. Buyers should also consider the Saturn Outlook and GMC Acadia.
The 2009 CX-7 comes in three trim levels -- Sport, Touring and Grand Touring -- with a universal turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
- "For the sporty-minded, it sets the standard for so-called crossover-utility vehicles." -- USA Today
- "We've drawn many comparisons between the VW Tiguan and the Mazda CX-7, but which is the better buy? Both vehicles are handsome-looking crossover SUVs. Performance is also very good in both vehicles. Although the Mazda has more cabin space and better tech, the Tiguan's better fuel economy and build quality make it a slightly better long-term investment." -- CNET
- "This is a great car for the money, especially when compared to its competition." -- AutoWeek
- "Reflecting changes in the vehicle market, the CX-7 is a five-seat suburban sports wagon for reduced-kid families wanting some style and with no plans to go off-road. (How's that for a niche?) The handling is sharp, the ride stiff, the turbo four stout. Nissan's Murano is its nemesis." -- Car and Driver
- "The entry-level Sport trim gets a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob as standard equipment for '09, as well as new optional dual heated front seats with a power-adjustable driver's seat. The high-end Grand Touring trim receives new exterior mirrors with integrated turn signals and an auto-dimming interior rear-view mirror with Homelink, as well as minor interior finishing improvements." -- Car Gurus
CX-7 Performance - 8.6 (Very Good)
Test drivers find the 2009 Mazda CX-7 offers deliciously sporty performance, especially for an SUV. "Cruising down the coast, we felt -- if only for a moment -- that there might be something to Mazda's claim of 'the soul of a sports car,'" says CNET. "The CX-7 has the heart. Mazda's crossover certainly feels sporty in the power and the handling departments, as long as you don't push it too hard." However, test drivers heavily criticize the CX-7's fuel economy. continue
CX-7 Exterior - 9.0 (Excellent)
Reviewers find the 2009 CX-7 to be one of the better looking SUVs in its class. Critics love the SUV's sporty-looking windshield, but find the rear rather boring. continue
CX-7 Interior - 7.6 (Good)
The 2009 Mazda CX-7 may excel in performance and exterior styling, but it loses points for its interior. Though space and comfort are adequate, the cramped rear seat and cheap materials detract from the cabin's appeal. However, styling is surprisingly upscale. "Upon settling into the CX-7's driver's seat, the first thing we noticed was just how German the aesthetic was," says CNET. "With black as far as the eye could see and tasteful silver plastic trim here and there, we'd begun to think that perhaps we had somehow found ourselves back in the VW Tiguan." On the downside, reviewers find the cockpit controls and stereo systems confusing. continue
CX-7 Safety - 8.7 (Very Good)
The 2009 Mazda CX-7 has received excellent scores in federal government crash tests. It also features a comprehensive array of safety equipment, including side curtain air bags and electronic stability control. Note that there are front visibility concerns due to the CX-7's styling. continue
CX-7 Reliability - 8.0 (Very Good)
The 2009 Mazda CX-7 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2009 CX-7 comes with Mazda's three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. continue
