2023 Author: Eric Donovan | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-21 15:44
For two years Mazda only offered its SUV as a gasoline engine. From now on, the diesel should ensure success.
By Thomas Flehmer
A diesel engine belongs in the SUV segment like a lid on a pot. For two years, Mazda has achieved the exclusivity of only offering the CX-7 as a gasoline engine. The fact that a facelift for the 4.70 meter long off-road vehicle is due two years after its introduction is due to the fact that the Japanese are now offering a diesel engine. The 2.2 MZR-CD with 173 hp, already known from the Mazda 6, also gives the 1.8-tonner a very sporty note after the noticeable turbo lag at 2000 crankshaft revolutions has been overcome.
7.5 liters consumption
A total of 400 Newton meters then intervene so strongly that in the interior one does not have the impression of sitting in a bulky horsepower monster, but in a thoroughly sporty model, even if the sprint from a standstill to 100 km / h is at least 11, Takes 3 seconds.
So the 1.64 meter high all-wheel drive can easily lean into the curves without being overtaken by the rear wheel. On inclines, however, you always have to shift down quickly, which is a bit too hacky to keep the mobile going. The 2.2-liter engine is only supposed to swallow 7.5 liters per 100 kilometers, which corresponds to CO2 emissions of 199 grams per kilometer.
NOx trap for Euro 5
Unfortunately, a start-stop system is still missing, with which consumption could have been reduced even further. Mazda is the first Japanese manufacturer to use AdBlue, a urea solution that removes harmful nitrogen oxides (NOx) from the exhaust gas. The solution is located in a 15.5 liter extra tank, which is automatically refilled after 20,000 kilometers during the upcoming inspection.
Thanks to AdBlue, the diesel engine meets the Euro 5 standard, Daimler even manages Euro 6 with it. Mazda would also create the currently highest standard if the engine power was reduced. However, since this standard is only required from 2014, the Japanese are satisfied with Euro 5. The driving pleasure does not suffer from it. The CX-7 keeps up well and, above all, quietly up to a speed of 200 km / h.
Visually significantly improved
The so-called NOx trap combined with the use of the self-igniter is the outstanding criterion for this quick facelift. But also optically hand was made and the SUV designed rounder, at the same time more aggressive. The front got the current brand face, which originated from the recently introduced new generation Mazda 3.
With the five-point radiator grille and many chrome elements, the new seven looks significantly fresher compared to its predecessor. As with all Mazda models, a Japanese term is chosen to describe the character of each vehicle. The CX-7 uses the term sen-ren, which means high quality or sophisticated. The interior was designed with metal and piano lacquer and the instrument panel was completely redesigned. The steering wheel is still covered with switches, which not only long-time Mazda drivers get used to quickly.
GPS in Tomtom format
The navigation system with the small monitor in Tomtom format does not inspire everyone, but is quite cheap for 720 euros. Another new feature is the lane change assistant, which warns of approaching vehicles when there is a visual sign in the side mirror. In the event of heavy braking, the emergency brake light also kicks in to warn the following traffic.
The co-drivers don't notice anything. You can squeeze into the very comfortable leather seats and enjoy the ride. There is also enough space for head and legs in the second row, the luggage is well stored with a storage space of 455 liters, which increases to 1348 liters with the rear seat bench folded down.
Less than 30,000 euros
29,990 euros have to be invested for the Prime Line entry-level version, but according to Mazda spokesman Jochen Münzinger, the main part will opt for the second Center Line equipment variant, which starts at 31,590 euros and has pretty much everything on board that your heart desires.
The petrol engine with 260 hp, which costs at least 36,990 euros, also remains on offer. The previous solo entertainer will slip into insignificance. Only three percent will opt for the petrol engine from the sporty MPS range. The rest will find the right lid for the pot.
