CX-7: Diesel crossover out to seduce cost-conscious Europeans
The gutsy, thirsty standalone 2.3-litre petrol CX-7 seduced the US, but not the Europeans. It possessed all the right elements for a sporty, up-market ute, but those high CO2 emissions and poor fuel returns didn't do it any favours in austerity-wracked Britain.
But Mazda has reacted to the value-for-money mood and produced a much more acceptable alternative, a diesel-powered CX-7 which whittles down the fuel bill considerably.
At the same time, it has reduced its carbon output. The diesel unit's figure is 199g/km compared to the petrol's 243g/km. Not earth shattering, but a step in the right direction and enough to sway the more eco-conscious buyer.
The new CX-7 is still a one-and-only model, replacing the aforementioned 2.3 petrol version, of which only 1,250 units sold in the UK.
Developing 170bhp, the turbo diesel power-plant, which comes with an extra weight penalty, can't compare with its predecessor's 0-62mph sprint of 8 seconds. It achieves the dash in just over 11 seconds, but in fact it does feel more sprightly than these figures suggest.
The oil burner doesn't feel lethargic, even at low speed, and, despite its fairly hefty all-steel body and chassis, it coped well once it was wound up on the open road.
The electric hydraulic assisted steering felt just as light and alert as in the petrol model, providing good feedback and the six-speed transmission was just as user-friendly and responsive. Ride in the five-passenger SUV remains quite firm, but comfortable, and a 5% increase in torsional rigidity, together with new dampers, improves composure, particularly when cornering.
The CX-7 Diesel looks even sportier than the petrol model. It retains the same high window line and rear shoulder kink, though the wheel arches are more muscular and the Japanese crossover has a new face, including a larger and lower grille and new fog lights which all help to give it even more 4x4 attitude.
The new CX-7 TDI also gets a new rear bumper and larger roof spoiler, as well as 19-inch alloys and rear privacy glass.
There are improvements, too, in the neat, well-laid out cabin, with more user-friendly switchgear, which all help to create a distinctly premium feel in the cockpit area.
Like the petrol model, the turbo diesel version sports smart, luxury leather upholstery which helps to mitigate the £25,785 price.
Those not convinced need look no further than the standard kit list which includes a comprehensive run-down of all manner of electronic safety and security features.
There is also a new Emergency Stop Signalling system which automatically activates the hazard warning lights, whenever the driver brakes sharply or heavily, plus a new Rear Vehicle Monitoring system. The RVM aids safe lane changing by using wide-angle radar units to monitor traffic behind, warning the driver of an approaching vehicle prior to moving into a busy lane. Just as important, it can also detect vehicles driving in the so-called blind spot of the car. This may be the only Mazda SUV on offer, but it boasts greener credentials than its predecessor and you'd be hard-put to find a sporty SUV crossover offering such an extensive list of standard features
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