Skip advert
Advertisement

New Mazda CX-7

One of the littlest known cars on the market gets makeover and new engine

This is the new and updated Mazda CX-7. You'd be forgiven for not knowing there was one to update, though - it's safe to say this is one of the scarcer cars on our roads, so if the CX-7’s existence is news to you, fear not.

It's Mazda's shot at the SUV sector, and in comparison to behemoths from Audi, BMW et al it's one of the more likeable efforts. It looks pretty smart, echoing the design of its Mazda 6, MX-5 and RX-8 stablemates. The facelift for the new version is remarkably subtle, with a more aggressive front end and sharper grille the only real telltales.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The big news lies beneath, with a new engine in the form of Mazda’s new 2.2-litre turbodiesel. The outgoing CX-7 was petrol only, which probably explains why so few sold. Swapping for an oil-burner should make it a much more appealing buy, and it’s a great engine – in 182bhp, 295lb ft tune it makes the Mazda 3 (pictured in grey) a properly potent semi-hot hatch.

In the CX-7 it gains some trick technology, too, a Selective Catalytic Reduction system adding urea to exhaust gases to cut their environmental impact. Nitrous oxide emissions are cut by 40 per cent, making this the more environmentally conscious choice for four-by-four lovers.

The new (and hopefully greater spotted) CX-7 goes in sale in the UK in October following its showing at the Frankfurt motor show next month. Set aside around £25K if you want to set a new trend and be among the first to snap one up.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Why the Vauxhall Astra should have been given a different name
Vauxhall Astra GSE
Opinion

Why the Vauxhall Astra should have been given a different name

It’s time to reassess a perennially underrated hatchback, says Porter
17 Apr 2025
Volkswagen Passat 2025 review – a breath of fresh air next to leaden EVs
Volkswagen Passat front
Reviews

Volkswagen Passat 2025 review – a breath of fresh air next to leaden EVs

Being ‘only’ 1500kg has its advantages. The latest Passat in petrol-only form reminds us ‘normal’ cars can and should be above average
16 Apr 2025
Ferrari Elettrica confirmed for October reveal
Ferrari EV spies
News

Ferrari Elettrica confirmed for October reveal

Ferrari will reveal its first all-electric car in October 2025 and it will be called: Elettrica
22 Apr 2025