Overview -

Mazda's all-new CX-7 offers a clean break from the fleet of traditional SUVs, while delivering outstanding value priced from just $39,910.

Engineered with Mazda's trademark, "Soul of a Sportscar" and built entirely on Mazda-derived chassis architecture, the all-wheel-drive CX-7 is a true crossover SUV. It sets new benchmarks in its segment with its blend of style, dynamics and practicality.

For example, its 66-degree windshield angle is sleeker than many sportscars, let alone SUVs. Distinct character lines run through the A-pillars and along the edges of the bonnet to the front fascia. A five-pointed grille and prominent front fenders reveal a clear Mazda family identity.

The side profile sports an aggressive, rising belt line, curved roof and prominent fender arches, reflecting Mazda's unique design signature. A tapered cabin rests securely on the lower body's broad shoulders. From the rear, the detailed round motif tail lamp and large dual exhaust outlets also emphasize the Zoom-Zoom sportscar feature.

Dynamically the CX-7 sets the benchmark, with it powered by Mazda's 2.3-litre turbocharged, intercooled, direct injection engine producing 175 kilowatts and 350 Newton meters of torque at 2500rpm. It mates to a six-speed Activematic transmission and delivers its power and torque to the road through Mazda's Active Torque Split all-wheel drive system.

The CX-7 can accelerate from 0-100kmh in just 8.5 seconds.

Employing standard ABS anti-lock brakes and Dynamic Stability Control the CX-7's strut front and multi-link rear offers a controlled comfortable ride and class-leading handling. Grip is provided by a generous 18-inch wheel and tyre package.

Riding on a long 2750 wheelbase - 130mm longer than Tribute - the CX-7 offers generous, leg and headroom front and back, while cargo space is an impressive 400 litres - to the cargo area's window line - with the robust 16-inch spare in place.

CX-7 at 4680mm is 280mm longer than Tribute, 47mm wider, but perhaps not surprisingly given its crossover style, 125mm lower.

Program manager Shunsuke Kawasaki, who was in Australia for the media launch of the CX-7 said: "There is no doubt this SUV reflects Zoom-Zoom. CX-7 skillfully blends sports car verve with SUV practicality. It is a vehicle that brings together performance and design like never before and this deviation from the crossover norm is inviting to look at, entertaining to drive, and fun to use."

Offered in two trim specification levels, the $39,910 CX-7 boasts a long list of standard features that include but are not limited to air-conditioning, power windows and mirrors, trip computer, ambient temperature display, automatic headlamps on/off, wheel-mounted audio and cruise control, six-disc CD player (MP3 compatible), fog lamps and remote central locking with dual stage unlock.

Standard safety features include a rigid unibody incorporating Mazda's Advanced Impact energy Distribution and Absorption System to realize high levels of collision safety and helps to protect occupants in various accident situations, including front, side and rear impacts. In recent US Government National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA) tests the CX-7 achieved the highest possible rating, five stars, in both frontal and side-impact crash tests.

The CX-7's active safety package includes six airbags (dual front, front side and head protecting curtain airbags), traction control, ABS anti-lock brakes, DSC and the Active Torque Split AWD system.

Priced at $45,560 the CX-7 Luxury adds leather trim, a glass sunroof, a power-operated driver's seat with eight-way adjustment, heated front seats, a nine speaker 240 watt BOSE® sound system, heated side mirrors and climate controlled air-conditioning.

Mazda Australia managing director, Doug Dickson, said: "The CX-7 is a very welcome addition to our range with its combination of style, performance, practicality and value unrivalled in the Australian market.

"CX-7 gives us a second entrant into the popular SUV market and gives new and existing Mazda customers another reason to choose Australia's top-selling import brand".

Mazda Australia expects sales of the Japan-built CX-7 to average about 550 a month for the first 12 months with the Luxury model accounting for 60 per cent of sales.

CX-7 will appeal primarily to affluent young families with the parents in the 30 to 45 age group who will be attracted by its style, performance and driving fun. They see CX-7 as "a sports car on steroids."

Most sales would come from present compact SUV buyers, however there would also be some from medium and the prestige segments. Market research shows that 20 to 30 per cent of CX-7 customers would be Tribute owners.

The CX-7 is protected by Mazda's three year/unlimited kilometre warranty.