2020 Mazda CX-7 redesign

2020 Mazda CX-7 Mid-Size SUV Review

2773 2

CX-7 was a mid-size crossover SUV that saw the discontinuation in 2012. Now, with the market success of the CX-3 and CX-5, Mazda is considering taking it back. The model could arrive as the 2020 Mazda CX-7 and it will take the position under the three-row CX-9. The SkyActiv platform can underpin the upcoming vehicle, that will bring all the trademark features we already got used to, including bright red paintjob.

The new 2020 Mazda CX-7 could also be a hybrid. The Japanese company is already delivering some mild-hybrid systems, and this model could start the massive production of such drivetrains. Also, expect a lot of similarities between CX-7 and CX-9, since both vehicles belong to a mid-size segment. The upcoming SUV is not going to offer the third row.

2020 Mazda CX-7

2020 Mazda CX-7 Specs

The main drivetrain for both CX-5 and CX-9 is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder unit. In various setups, this engine is capable to produce between 185 and 250 horsepower. Well, there is no doubt that the Japanese carmaker is making this one the main source of power for the 2020 Mazda CX-7.

Let’s start with the base configuration. Naturally-aspirated model is delivering 190 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque for the CX-5. The mid-size SUV will definitely need more power. Whatsoever, the company could decide to decrease the price of the base unit by offering it with such configuration. A six-speed automatic transmission and the front-wheel drive are the standard setups. Optionally, the 2020 Mazda CX-7 will also use an all-wheel drive. The CX-5 returns 28 mpg combined. Its larger sibling will put up some weight and the overall fuel consumption will jump a bit.

Other configuration includes a turbocharged. The same mill in this setup produces 230 horsepower. Try the premium fuel and you will get 20 ponies more. At the same time torque level jumps to 310 lb-ft. This is enough for 3,500 pounds of towing capacity. Fuel economy suffers, but not too much. Combined, the turbocharged four-cylinder engine still returns nice numbers – 25 mpg with the FWD in CX-5 and 24 mpg in CX-9.

2020 Mazda CX-7 price

Diesel

There is a rumor in certain circles that Mazda is working on a 2.2-liter diesel engine. The 2020 Mazda CX-7 could be the first model to bring such units, although the Japanese company is still not confirming it. On the other hand, there is no denial as well. The is the SkyActiv-D model with outputs around 175 hp and 310 pound-feet of torque. So, the vehicles riding this one will gain no power or torque. The main saving comes from better fuel consumption. Some sources say that gasoline economy could go up to 33-34 mpg combined. Well, we will see if this is going to happen next year. The possibility is not so likely, but fans still believe in surprises.

Hybrid

Well, the situation is the same as the hybrid engine. We don’t know too much about this one, but if we must choose between it and diesel, we would say that hybrid is more likely to happen. Why? Diesel is already available in some markets. Well, the entire industry is going to be electrified very soon. Diesel engines are becoming history and these drivetrains are facing more difficult regulations. Emissions are the main problem, the issue that hybrid and PHEV powertrains can fix. The CX-30 hybrid crossover had a debut earlier this year, and it is just a matter of fact when will Mazda bring it to the larger vehicles.

2020 Mazda CX-7 hybrid

2020 Mazda CX-7 Styling

It seems like Mazda loses the pace to the competition. But, the CX-5 revived the popularity of this brand. Its growth started in 2012, the same year when the last CX-7 was discontinued. Now, it is time for the comeback, and the mid-size SUV will borrow a lot of design solutions from its sibling. A large grille is definitely something we can expect to see as a highlight of the front fascia. Inside the 2020 Mazda CX-7 buyers will find a lot of interesting features and options. Navigation, Bose audio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are remaining optional. Touring and Grand Touring trim levels will offer the best value, while the top of the line version will be the CX-7 Signature.

Price and Competition

Having in mind that 2020 Mazda CX-7 is filling the spot between two other models, it is not hard to guess that price will be under CX-9 and above CX-5. So, expect the new SUV to come with the price tag just under $30k. Compared to the competition, that is on par with the Nissan Murano or Honda Passport. We still don’t have any hybrid SUV in this class (Toyota Highlander is a three-row SUV), so the CX-7 could make an immediate impact with the new drivetrain. The vehicle will debut early next year, probably at some of the biggest car shows in the USA.

Read the related review:

2020 Nissan Pathfinder

Related Post

There are 2 comments

  1. I will consider a trade in when it comes out. I had one before and loved it. I would have bought another one two years ago but they became unavailable.

Leave a comment