Topic: Is Mazda CX7 a good choice?

[slybry]

I helping my buddy out trying to pick a small SUV. Interested in the normally aspirated CX7 with 161 horsepower 2.5 L.

Likes:
-Style. Just love the looks in and out.
-The fact you can get bells and whistles like leather and sunroof without being forced into a 4WD model like many other SUV.
- Driveability. It has got that zoom zoom.

Concerns:
- Resale
- Reliability
- Rust

Just wanted to get feedback about how these CX7'S are holding up and if you think it is a good choice.

We know there are lots of choices.

[mmret]

Driveability? in the 161hp I4?

[Careener]

Underpowered.
I'd rather pick up and Escape or Edge.

[ovr50]

I test drove one couple years ago - wouldn't be my choice. Particularly with the smaller engine.

[initial_D]

We are on our 2nd CX-7, leased a 2007 AWD GT when it first came out. Only issue that one had was a intake sensor for the turbo was faulty, only noticeable during full throttle acceleration at times, was fixed under warranty. The 2nd unit is MY2009 GT AWD, before the front face lift; just over a year old, works great so far.

Likes:

- utility, with the backseat folded flat, can haul loads of stuff
- good steering feedback, and handling is almost sporty
- decent power with the Turbo 4
- exterior shape, nothing else looks like it
- interior is very good quality, nice layout of gauges and controls
- smooth 6 speed auto

The So-So

- gas mileage, with the Turbo 4
- ride quality, can be harsh at times when surface is not smooth
- external sound insulation can be improved

I don't have any strong dislikes about the models we had, the dealership for service was good. Oil changes was under $40.00, and winter tire&wheel swapwas $20. Now oil change is about $50.

Krown can help with any rust issues, reliability wise, it should be above average. We had good experience with ours, but even though it is a very good vehicle, it is not for everyone.

[TopGun]

It sounds like your buddy's Likes show a lot of passion for the CX7.  The concerns sound like his brain is finding only general reasons not to get it.

Resale - If it's a concern, buy used because you'll get killed on ANY new car.
Reliability - Likely about average.  So is one more trip to the dealer a year worth it?  Sounds like it is.
Rust - Krown will take care of that.  If your going to keep it long enough for it to be an issue, then the resale becomes less of a factor.

[Leviathan]

http://www.canadiandriver.com/2009/10/06/first-drive-2010-mazda-cx-7.htm?page=all

I suspect another part of Mazda’s decision to offer the less-powerful engine only with two-wheel drive has to do with weight and its effect on performance. The GX’s 1,588 kg curb weight is downright lithe compared to the 1,818 kilo heft of the all-wheel drive GS and GT models. As a result, the turbo models’ only clear advantage was quicker off-the-line acceleration, while the lighter-but-less-powerful GX felt just as strong in highway passing manoeuvres.

Doesn't sound like the 2.5L is giving up too much vs the turbo. I like the looks of the CX-7 but too bad a manual + AWD option isn't available with either engine.

[Factger]

You should tell him to check out the mazda 5.  Cx-7 with awd and the base 2.3l engine he could save some money with the mazda5 but it comes down to preference. I have a 2005 mazda 3 which just had a new paint job. The stains of rust prevents me from getting another mazda, but other than the rust the 3 has been really good. You will not have the same rust issues with the Mazda5 or CX-7. But I would still undercoat the #&$^$ out of it

[Minou]

http://www.canadiandriver.com/2009/10/06/first-drive-2010-mazda-cx-7.htm?page=all

I suspect another part of Mazda’s decision to offer the less-powerful engine only with two-wheel drive has to do with weight and its effect on performance. The GX’s 1,588 kg curb weight is downright lithe compared to the 1,818 kilo heft of the all-wheel drive GS and GT models. As a result, the turbo models’ only clear advantage was quicker off-the-line acceleration, while the lighter-but-less-powerful GX felt just as strong in highway passing manoeuvres.

Doesn't sound like the 2.5L is giving up too much vs the turbo. I like the looks of the CX-7 but too bad a manual + AWD option isn't available with either engine.

OTOH, a roadtest I read yesterday complained about the engine struggling for passing maneuvers and on hills.

Did you ask your friend to take a look at the Santa Fe SE FWD with the V6?

Not the prettiest inside and out but comes with a much more powerful engine with 6 speed auto for similar fuel mileage that will make Zoom-Zoom of the Mazda 2.5.  Sunroof, leather and 18" wheels are also standard on the SE trim IIRC.

[inco]

The seven is ons of the nicest vehicles in the Mazda lineup. The only problem I have with it is that I wish they had put a small V6 in it using regular fuel instead of the Turbo which needs premium.

[Damien]

+1 for the Santa Fe.

We got a loaded FWD model.  Leather, sunroof, bum heaters etc when they first came out in 2006 with the new redesign.

We test drove EVERYTHING in its class, and the Santa won, hands down.  Even drove the Pilot and Highlander which similarly trimmed, went for 10K more. For the money, road manners, power and level of refinement, nothing could touch it.

[Angry Chicken]

+2 for the Santa Fe.  We cross-shopped the CX-7 when we bought ours and couldn'r overlook the Santa Fe's superior power, equivalent fuel mileage and greater cargo space.  Plus, it's very well assembled.  Obviously we like Mazdas too since we have a Mazda3 GT Sport, same model year (2007).  ;-)