What is it?
A facelifted CX-7 with new turbodiesel engine to broaden its appeal in Europe. There are plenty of updates both inside and out to keep Mazda's sporty SUV fresh. Most obvious is the tidy new front end with a larger grille (necessary to keep the diesel engine cool). Some models have the lower air intakes framed in silver and there is more than a hint of
RX-8 in the new look. There are also new 18- and 19-inch alloy wheels and three new paint colours; Aluminium Metallic, Stormy Blue Mica and Black Mica.
Why is it here?
The
original CX-7 was more focussed on the American market where diesels are unpopular. However, only offering a 2.3-litre petrol engine limited the model's appeal in Europe. At the same time it was felt necessary to improve the interior trim to create what Mazda calls, 'a truly global model.'
Developing 171bhp, the 2.2-litre common-rail turbodiesel motor comes from the same family of engines seen in the
recently updated Mazda6. A balancer shaft helps to keep vibration in check while a ceramic filter reduces soot and a selective catalyst reduction (SCR) system converts harmful NOx emissions into nitrogen and water. Powered by the new diesel engine, the claimed performance figures are 0-62mph in 11.3 seconds and a maximum speed of 124mph; fuel consumption should be 37.7mpg and CO
2 emissions 199g/km.
Inside, the dashboard has been restyled to accommodate a central information display. To improve comfort and perceived quality there is more padding on the door armrests and changes to trim materials include either piano black or metallic trim strips edging the centre console.
Show stopper or floor filler?
Although subtle, the changes made to the CX-7 will certainly increase the car's showroom appeal. Improving the interior and adding a diesel engine has addressed the two main areas of concern we flagged up in our reviews of the model. A facelifted SUV might not send the crowds flocking to the Mazda stand at
Geneva but it should lift sales when it reaches the showroom.
John Lambert - 10 Mar 2009