2012 Mazda CX-7 vs. Its Competition

Bengt Halvorson Senior Editor

A few years ago, the Mazda CX-7 was about the only crossover that dared stray away from the rugged look, but there are now a number of vehicles that have this focus.

Competing with the turbo models, the Acura RDX is a performance-oriented crossover that also packs a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, all-wheel drive, and a suspension that's tuned for sporty handling, and it’s probably the closest rival to the CX-7.

There’s more usable backseat space in the RDX, and its powertrain feels and sounds more refined.

The RDX also has a more advanced all-wheel-drive system that is harder to fluster in brisk driving on curvy roads.

The Subaru Tribeca lands somewhere in between; it has quirky styling inside, sharp handling, and a surprisingly fun-to-drive feel on the road, thanks to the responsive flat-six engine, while the Tiguan is bound to attract some shoppers due to its responsive turbo.

Competing with the bargain-priced 2.5-liter "i" models are the Nissan Rogue, the Honda CR-V, and new four-cylinder Chevrolet Equinox, among others, while the turbo CX-7 takes on the Subaru Tribeca, Volkswagen Tiguan, and perhaps even Acura RDX.

The Rogue has less of a performance emphasis; it exhibits a more laid-back personality, and the driving experience is a little more isolated (and numbed).

It can allow quite a bit of road noise inside, but the backseat is more spacious.

The base four-cylinder Chevrolet Equinox has been redesigned with much-improved noise isolation, along with attractive interior materials, and it deserves another look.

The CR-V has been completely redesigned for 2012, with improved fuel economy and refinement, and it's one of the best vehicles in the compact crossover class; but its driving experience remains unexciting.

four and attractive interior.