Mazda CX-7 ER, 1 generation 12.2006 - 08.2009

Mazda CX-7 is the first full-fledged Mazda crossover, developed by the forces of its own design bureau and incorporating the achievements of several popular models of the company. It was created with an eye on the American market, and the release was established at the factory on the island of Hokkaido. The Japanese market has become the second largest. The car was also very popular in the Russian market, which, surprisingly, became the third most important - Russian sales of the new Mazda CX-7 crossover began a month earlier than the official premiere of the car in Europe and were accompanied by rush demand. True, in Russia the car is presented with only one MZR turbocharged gasoline engine and direct fuel injection system, 2.3 liters and 238 hp, with an automatic transmission. For Russian consumers, this model also received small additions, such as an increased-capacity battery and special anti-corrosion treatment of the body.
 Minimum Touring equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels (235/60 R18), electrically adjustable and heated side mirrors. The interior of the car in this configuration offers fabric upholstery, a leather braid of the parking brake, gear knob and steering wheel equipped with audio control keys, power windows for the front and rear doors with central locking remotely controlled, climate control, cruise control, CD player with MP3 . The driver's seat is adjustable in height, both front are heated. The Sport package has leather seats and an interior, an electric driver’s seat and an adjustable lumbar support. The car could additionally be equipped with a system of contactless access to the interior and engine start (Smart start / smart keyless entry), xenon optics, fog lights, rain sensors and a Bose audio system with MP3 / CD changer. An optional electric sunroof was offered. The MZR engine is a gasoline 16-valve 2.3-liter R4 with turbocharging and direct fuel injection - from the Mazda 6 MPS. For the Russian market, given the quality of gasoline, it was deformed from 260 to 238 hp. (torque - 350 Nm) and configured to use gasoline AI-95 (for the USA and Japan - gasoline AI-98). Maximum speed is electronically limited to 181 km / h. Acceleration to 100 km / h - 8.3 seconds. The dynamics are facilitated by an excellent drag coefficient - 0.34 Cx. Transmission - 6-speed automatic Aisin (only for the European market provides 6-speed "mechanics"). Gas consumption - 11.5 liters per 100 km in the combined cycle (15.3 liters in the city and 9.3 liters in the country). The volume of the tank is 69 liters.

 When designing the Mazda CX-7 chassis, two other models were used: the McPherson-type front axle on wishbones and rods was borrowed from the new MPV minivan, while the rear axle was based on the modified Mazda 3 multi-link suspension. The crossover transmission is an all-wheel drive Active Torque Split AWD with a controlled electronic multi-plate clutch from the already mentioned Mazda 6 MPS (the car is also offered with front-wheel drive in the American market). Four-wheel drive is included only in case of slipping or during sudden acceleration. If necessary, the clutch is completely blocked, distributing the traction moment in a ratio of 50x50. There is no forced blocking, but its function is partially performed by the TRC traction control system, which brakes one or several slipping wheels. Overall dimensions of the crossover (L x W x H): 4675 x 1870 x 1645 mm. Wheelbase - 2750 mm, turning circle - 5.7 m. Ground clearance - 205 mm. Trunk volume - 455-1348 liters.

 In the basic configuration, the Mazda CX-7 has six airbags, an ABS system with EBD and an emergency braking system, traction control and a dynamic stabilization system. When driving on soft ground, sand or snow, the TRC system can be turned off, but the DSC system is not disconnected. The car received the highest marks in NHTSA crash tests and was included in the top 10 safest cars worth up to $ 25,000 in the US market.

 The Mazda CX-7 crossover is a powerful and dynamic car with a high level of comfort. Several factors immediately ensured his popularity on the Russian market: a bright and attractive design, large interior dimensions, an all-wheel drive system, some of the best dynamic characteristics in the class and almost the best price in the class. Owners highly appreciate the running gear, both in terms of reliability and controllability, but the drawbacks are usually associated with decent fuel consumption and high engine demands on maintenance. Therefore, before buying a used car, first of all, you need to pay attention to the mileage and condition of the engine.