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To assemble this cohesive review covering the entire 2010 Mazda CX-7 line—including the new 2.5-liter models—TheCarConnection.com incorporated its firsthand driving impressions in a Bottom Line, then looked outward to other review sources to include a host of other perspectives and insights.
Likes:
- Sophisticated design
- Well-detailed interior
- Handles well
- Reasonably fuel-efficient
Dislikes:
- Smallish backseat
- Disappointing cargo space with seats up
- Bluetooth not available on base SV
When the CX-7 was first introduced for 2007, it was one of the only small crossover utility vehicles with more rakish styling and an emphasis on sport-sedan-like road performance. Now for 2010 Mazda has expanded the CX-7 line to include a more economical base engine, spruced up the interior, and worked on making the cabin quieter.
The CX-7 retains its aggressive profile, including a 66-degree windshield incline that’s the steepest for any vehicle of its type. Mazda touches up the CX-7’s front and rear details for 2010—including a larger grille and Mazda logo—but the creased sheetmetal, bulging fenders and wheel wells, and low, sleek hoodline remain mostly unchanged. Inside, the CX-7’s interior continues the feel of part sport sedan, part utility vehicle. The instrument panel has a thin upper shelf that hosts audio and climate-control displays up in the driver’s line of vision. Next to it, there’s a new monochromatic trip computer or color nav screen. Hooded gauges and a new steering wheel design with controls for audio and Bluetooth calling functions complete the performance feel, while subtle new brightwork around the vents adds more visual panache.
The 2010 CX-7 lineup is now split into "i" and "s" models. The "i" models feature a new 161-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, with a five-speed automatic transmission. Standard on "s" models is a 244-horsepower, turbocharged direct-injected 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine. The "i" comes in front-wheel drive only, while the "s" models can be had with either front- or all-wheel drive.
