Mazda CX-7 Crossover SUV

Low exhaust emissions are achieved by connecting the catalytic converter directly to the turbocharger to shorten the time required for the catalyst to become effective. The CX-7 targets stringent federal Bin 5 and California LEV-II emissions standards.

Advanced transmission and drive components pass the engine’s power cleanly to the pavement. The six-speed Sport AT automatic transmission provides the full manual control demanded by assertive drivers. Shifts are crisp, in keeping with CX-7’s sportscar character.

Two drivelines are offered: Front-Wheel Drive or Mazda’s Active Torque-Split All-Wheel Drive. The latter system uses a computer-controlled coupling integrated with the rear differential to deliver up to half the available torque to the rear wheels on demand. Sensors monitor engine information, individual wheel speeds, Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) operation, and the CX-7’s standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system to optimize torque distribution. Whether the driving conditions are dry and fast or slippery and moderately paced, exceptional handling is assured.

A light, stiff unibody provides the sound foundation for CX-7’s smooth ride and agile handling. Computer-Aided-Engineering analysis was used to optimize this structure, delivering high torsional and bending rigidity with minimal weight.

In front, a perimeter frame mounted to the unibody through six rubber isolators supports the powertrain, the engine-speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion power steering and a low friction MacPherson strut suspension system. The multilink rear suspension consists of one trailing arm and two lateral locating members per side. To minimize cargo-compartment intrusion, the rear spring is positioned between the lower lateral member and the cross member that anchors rear chassis hardware to the unibody. The damper is located between the wheel hub and the unibody to provide excellent motion control with minimal friction. Coil springs and anti-roll bars are an integral part of both suspension systems. All-season P235/60R18 tires mounted on stylish aluminum wheels are standard.

CX-7’s four-wheel ventilated disc brake system integrates the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) functions. It also collaborates with the Active Torque Split All-Wheel Drive to prevent wheel spin on slippery surfaces.

CX-7’s rigid unibody uses the Mazda 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. The body’s frame sections are large in size and as straight as possible, high-strength steel is used where it’s effective, and subframe connections help absorb collision energy. Stamping the side frame from a single tailored blank minimizes center pillar deformation during a side impact.

The fuel tank is surrounded by substantial members to guard against leakage in a major rear collision. Six air bags (frontal and side for front occupants, side curtain for all outboard occupants) are standard. A special sensor anticipates a roll-over and inflates the side-curtain air bags early to guard against injury, maintaining inflation for approximately six seconds helps keep limbs out of harm’s way. Front occupant restraints have pretensioner and load-limiter mechanisms to maximize their effectiveness.

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