2009 Mazda CX-7 Features Review

February 23, 2009

FEATURES | 8 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

The base Sport trim level has lost its standard power driver seat.
Edmunds

[It's] surprising that our Mazda didn't display outside temperature or fuel economy
Car and Driver

frosted plastic taillights that exhibit an expensive air
Cars.com

With three trim levels, all available with either front- or all-wheel drive, and a lengthy standard equipment list, the 2009 Mazda CX-7 is competitive in its class.

On this 2009 Mazda, all trims feature a sporty-three spoke steering wheel and a cabin air filter. Sport is the Mazda 2009's base trim and starts off, according to Edmunds, with "18-inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning, full power accessories, cruise control, a six-way manual adjustment driver's seat, and a CD player with MP3 capability and an auxiliary audio jack." The midlevel Touring trim "adds leather, an eight-way power driver seat and front seat heaters." The top-of-the-line Grand Touring trim "features xenon headlights, heated exterior mirrors, an upgraded gauge cluster, automatic headlights, automatic climate control and distinct leather upholstery," notes ConsumerGuide.

In addition to the above, states ConsumerGuide, standard on the 2009 Mazda CX-7 Sport trim are "cruise control, remote keyless entry, variable wipers (front and rear), rear defogger, floor mats, theft-deterrent system, rear privacy glass, and a rear spoiler." Touring models also feature "driver seat lumbar support, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a cargo cover." In addition, Grand Touring models are equipped with "an outside temperature indicator and automatic headlights."

For the 2009 Mazda CX-7, a package called 1MC including a sunroof and Bose stereo is available; the Technology package adds a voice-controlled touch-screen navigation system, keyless ignition, and a rear park-assist system with a rearview camera, according to Edmunds, who note that "the Sport trim can be upgraded with a power seat option that adds power and heated front seats." Also optional, according to ConsumerGuide, are "remote engine start, an automatic day/night rearview mirror, and a Class II tow-hitch receiver." ConsumerGuide notes that Sport models can only be equipped with a hitch with the power/heated seat package.

Conclusion

Although it keeps a low sticker price, the base 2009 Mazda CX-7 (Sport) isn’t as well equipped as last year's model, and you’ll probably want to browse the options list.

FEATURES | 8 out of 10Expert Quotes:The base Sport trim level has lost its standard power driver seat.Edmunds[It's] surprising that our Mazda didn't display outside temperature or fuel economyCar and Driverfrosted plastic taillights that exhibit an expensive airCars.com With three trim levels, all available with either front- or all-wheel drive, and a lengthy standard equipment list, the 2009 Mazda CX-7 is competitive in its class. On this 2009 Mazda, all trims feature a sporty-three spoke steering wheel and a cabin air filter. Sport is the Mazda 2009's base trim and starts off, according to Edmunds, with "18-inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning, full power accessories, cruise control, a six-way manual adjustment driver's seat, and a CD player with MP3 capability and an auxiliary audio jack." The midlevel Touring trim "adds leather, an eight-way power driver seat and front seat heaters." The top-of-the-line Grand Touring trim "features xenon headlights, heated exterior mirrors, an upgraded gauge cluster, automatic headlights, automatic climate control and distinct leather upholstery," notes ConsumerGuide. In addition to the above, states ConsumerGuide, standard on the 2009 Mazda CX-7 Sport trim are "cruise control, remote keyless entry, variable wipers (front and rear), rear defogger, floor mats, theft-deterrent system, rear privacy glass, and a rear spoiler." Touring models also feature "driver seat lumbar support, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a cargo cover." In addition, Grand Touring models are equipped with "an outside temperature indicator and automatic headlights." For the 2009 Mazda CX-7, a package called 1MC including a sunroof and Bose stereo is available; the Technology package adds a voice-controlled touch-screen navigation system, keyless ignition, and a rear park-assist system with a rearview camera, according to Edmunds, who note that "the Sport trim can be upgraded with a power seat option that adds power and heated front seats." Also optional, according to ConsumerGuide, are "remote engine start, an automatic day/night rearview mirror, and a Class II tow-hitch receiver." ConsumerGuide notes that Sport models can only be equipped with a hitch with the power/heated seat package. ConclusionAlthough it keeps a low sticker price, the base 2009 Mazda CX-7 (Sport) isn’t as well equipped as last year's model, and you’ll probably want to browse the options list. 2009 MAZDA CX-7 STYLING | [9 out of 10] Edmunds: "attention-getting design" Cars.com: "one of the best-looking crossovers" ConsumerGuide: "Testers agree the gauges are stylish but are divided on whether they're easy to read" Mazda 2009 CX-7s continue the familiar styling from their ...

Read More of this Review:

  1. styling
  2. performance
  3. quality
  4. safety
  5. features

Other Choices:

The Acura RDX, a performance-oriented crossover that also packs a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, all-wheel drive, and a suspension that's tuned for sporty handling, is probably the closest rival to the 2009 Mazda CX-7. But the RDX's interior feels plusher yet sporty, there's more usable backseat space, and its powertrain feels and sounds more refined, with a bit less harshness and better responsiveness at part-throttle than the CX-7's engine. The RDX also has a more advanced all-wheel-drive system that is harder to fluster in brisk driving on curvy roads. The EX35 is a new competitor to the 2008 Mazda CX-7, with an excellent interior design and sharp handling, but its interior is also somewhat cramped. The BMW X3 offers a similar package, though its six-cylinder powertrains are more refined and sophisticated; however, the X3's interior trails the competition in appearance and materials. As a wild card, there's also the Subaru Tribeca, with quirky styling inside, sharp handling, and a surprisingly fun-to-drive feel on the road, thanks to the responsive flat-six engine. But what's the CX-7's biggest advantage? Its price is significantly lower than any of these rivals.

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See the Mazda CX-7 in Other Years:

2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007

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