The Mazda CX7 is to be released here in the UK this Sept. The CX7 is totally 'New' it has begun as a powerful and dynamic sports car, gained size and presence then by adding intelligent 4-wheel drive become an extraordinary sports crossover SUV.
Already released in both Japan and North America where 46,000 units have been sold to date its success seems inevitable. Mazda’s European Research and Developement Centre (MRE) based in Oberusel, near Frankfurt, Germany assessed and tuned the US CX7 for driving performance and craftsmanship. The engineering team of 15 took the CX7 and developed tuning, handling, ride comfort, suspension settings, steering, brakes, ABS, ESP and NVH for powertrain, road noise and window noise in order to match European customer expectations.
Testing began by comparing the best of the European competition on European roads. Together with suppliers and Mazda Japan, the team worked hard to deliver a driving feel that takes a more sporty direction. The European CX7 was tested on Nürburgring’s Nordschleife, mountain roads, on German autobahns at high speed and winter tested in Northern Europe.
Powertrain testing of the Mazda CX7’s high performance 2.3 litre DISI turbo petrol engine in the European model produces 191 kW/260 PS of output and 380 Nm of torque which is the same as Mazda's MPS engine and a greater output than the US version producing 244 hp. Reaching 0-62mph in just 8.0 seconds. A six-speed manual transmission was specially developed for the engine.
Extreme chassis testing was conducted due to Europe's unique requirement for high speed stability. First priority, to concentrate on was overall body rigidity. Reinforcing different parts, such as the front cross members and the ones placed on the transmission tunnel were made thicker, as were the front suspension towers.
The suspension of the CX7 was reworked to connect the road and the quality of road feedback to the driver. The pull bars linking the rear suspension to the body adopts a different layout and suspension settings were redefined to find an ideal compromise between agility and drive comfort. The tyres, steering characteristics and ESP settings are all different to the US version.
Tuned specifically for UK roads the CX7 effortlessly smoothes the miles away whether needed in city streets or sweeping counrty roads the CX7 provides not just exhilarating performance, but sports car-inspired handling and poise. The Mazda CX7 doesn't suffer the compromise of body roll and numb steering found in many SUV's meaning you can push on with confidence, just like a sports car. Power flows through a sporting close-ratio 6 speed manual gearbox, delivered to the road through Mazda's advanced active torque 4-wheel-drive system, offering controlled take off under acceleration, enhanced stability on the road and improved traction in adverse conditions.
For more information call Mazda Darlington on 0845 112 5008 or Mazda Durham on 0845 112 5009