In a hotly contested and increasingly crowded crossover segment, it’s better to be race-inspired than uninspired. With some clever engineering and a lot of design work, the 2011 Mazda CX-7 puts an otherwise bland class lineup (spearheaded by the vaunted Toyota RAV4) firmly in its rearview mirror.
If a crossover is meant to be a vehicle with the spaciousness and capability of an SUV and the soul and feel of a sedan, it’s difficult to see the overlap in Toyota’s design. Even in its Sport trim, the 2011 RAV4 delivers much of the same expected SUV styling it has for generations: Simple, beveled lines devoid of true, distinguishable character. On the other end of the spectrum, the performance-driven CX-7 is sophisticated without settling for mundane; bold dynamic lines complement powerful features like available 19-inch wheels, Xenon headlamps, chrome accents and a roof spoiler. A rear tailgate provides sport ute accessibility without the obtrusive spare-tire case found on the back of the RAV4 (which can be removed for an added cost). In short, there is soul and attitude to the Mazda design.
The newest CX-7 takes its fight to the streets with a standard 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine with Variable Valve Timing. Through an available five-speed Sport transmission, the crossover makes a punchy 161 hp and 161 lb/ft of torque, just behind the standard four-cylinder offered by the RAV4. Choose the CX-7 “s” trim and you’ll get a standard 2.3-liter DISI (Direct Injection Spark Ignition) turbocharged engine, along with an upgraded six-speed Sport automatic transmission. (Toyota offers a non-turbocharged V6 engine with 12 lb/ft less torque than the Mazda turbo four). The Mazda turbo delivers a cool 244 hp and 258 lb/ft of torque. Like the RAV4, the CX-7 tops out at 28 highway mpg.
Mazda complements its powerful engine options with one of the most advanced suspension systems in the segment, as well as the tight, feedback-filled steering that’s become a staple of the automaker’s lineup. An independent MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear setup, along with standard Dynamic Stability Control and Traction Control, delivers a ride that’s as rewarding as it is responsive. Both vehicles offer available All-Wheel Drive, though only Mazda offers the Active Torque Split AWD system, which uses road-monitoring sensors to determine power distribution between the front and rear wheels.
Inside, the CX-7 makes no qualms about its five-passenger spaciousness. Where certain RAV4 models boost capacity with a cramped, folding third row of seats at an additional cost, the longer, wider Mazda features theater-style seating and more interior passenger space where it counts (especially in the front), as well as a generous amount of cargo space. Seats themselves are carefully contoured, and where available, heated and leather-trimmed.
Cockpit design on the latest CX-7 is noticeably more modern than that of the RAV4. A thick, leather-trimmed steering wheel (standard on upper trims) features audio, cruise and Bluetooth® controls while the dash sports sleek gauges and information displays, attractive buttons and impressive technology. An optional compact navigation system sits high on the dash for easy viewing while an available Bose® Centerpoint® Surround Sound System with AudioPilot® 2 delivers nine-speakers of unparalleled audio. A DVD player is available in the CX-7, but not in the Toyota, and the CX-7’s top trim, the CX-7 s Grand Touring, gets a standard Blind Spot Monitoring System.
Despite its noticeable leg up in the style, performance and features departments, the 2011 CX-7 still comes in just about $500 below the 2011 RAV4; the Mazda has a starting MSRP of just $21,990 while Toyota’s entry starts at $22,475.
The CX-7 can’t be ahead all the time.
