2010 Mazda CX-7

2010 MAZDA CX-7: SOPHISTICATED, SUSTAINABLE AND DETAILED

Sporty crossover gains new engine option, plus styling and engineering enhancements

Launched in 2006 as a 2007 model, the Mazda CX-7 offers a blend of sports car verve and SÚV practicality in a way that few other crossover vehicles can, and has garnered high praise by consumers and media as a true driver's vehicle.

'A key word in the development process of the 2010 CX-7 was refinement,' said Masashi Otsuka, Mazda Motor Corporation's CX-7 program manager. 'The vehicle we had to start with was already really good and well liked by consumers, so my team didn't have to start over, but simply refine.' For 2010, the CX-7 continues to offer more of what has made it a success and adds characteristics of sophistication, sustainability and detail.

To address a customer request, the highlight of Otsuka's team's work for the 2010 model year is the development of a more economical example of the already thrifty CX-7. This model will incorporate an all-new naturally aspirated DOHC 16-valve 2.5-liter MZR four-cylinder engine coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com) The existing MZR 2.3-liter DISI Turbo (direct injection DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder) engine will still be offered in the upper trim levels.

Sold worldwide, the 2010 CX-7 made its debut at the 2009 Canadian International Auto Show in February and made its first appearance in the Únited States at the 2009 New York International Auto Show.

CHOICE OF TWO DYNAMIC POWERPLANTS

Produced entirely on Mazda-derived platform architecture, the five-passenger
CX-7 is a fun-to-drive crossover SÚV that represents everything a Mazda should be: stylish, dynamic and a great value. That value increases for 2010 with the addition of the 2.5-liter normally aspirated engine.

MZR 2.5 I-4 normally aspirated:


Advanced features utilized in the MZR-series engines include chain-driven dual overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder for deep breathing at high revs and efficient torque delivery at lower revs. Counter-rotating balance shafts located in the oil pan provide a dramatic reduction in the vibration and harshness often found in large-displacement four-cylinder engines, and a forged steel crankshaft ensures excellent long-term durability.

Fuel is delivered to the intake ports by an electronically controlled sequential injection system, where the modular ignition coils are positioned directly above the spark plugs for increased efficiency and reduced maintenance and under-hood complexity.

Other lightweight items are the aluminum block and head, the forged powder-metal connecting rods (reduced reciprocating weight), and the injection-molded, nylon-reinforced-plastic intake manifold which also provides smooth internal passages for more efficient air flow. Overall, the normally aspirated 2.5-liter MZR engine delivers excellent off-the-line and overtaking characteristics, and is a strong match for the CX-7s dynamics.

MZR 2.3 DISI Turbo


Continuing to be available, and carried over from the previous model years, the CX-7 also is powered by an award-winning 2.3L DISI (Direct Injection Spark Ignition) turbo engine. Engineered to deliver high performance at all engine and road speeds, along with low exhaust emissions and good fuel economy, the MZR 2.3 DISI turbo-charged engine produces up to an enthusiastic 244 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque at only 2,500 rpm.

From 2,000 to 5,000 rpm, more than 90 percent of the engine's maximum torque is available, which makes for a smooth and comfortable driving experience. Únlike other high-performance turbo-charged engines, CX-7's turbo engine is tuned to run on regular fuel. (concept carz)

The DISI MZR engine uses it own specific aluminum block and head construction, including a specific forged crankshaft and connecting rods for long-lasting durability. A large air-to-air intercooler and direct fuel injection cools temperature inside the cylinders and allows use of a relatively high compression ratio without fear of knocking or pinging - 'detonation' in industry terms - that reduces durability.

Útilizing extremely high pressure in the fuel injection system - up to 3,000 psi - allows the fuel to be atomized as it is delivered to the cylinders. This shift in the gasoline's state from liquid to vapor in the intake manifold as it is injected into the cylinder provides the substantial cooling effect. The low charge temperature permits the application of a 9.5:1 compression ration, boosting low- and mid-range torque by approximately 10 percent over conventional turbo engines.

Low exhaust emissions are achieved by connecting the catalytic converter directly to the turbocharger to shorten the time required for the catalyst to reach its effective operating temperature. The CX-7 meets stringent federal Tier 2 Bin 5 and California LEV-II emissions standards. ( posted on conceptcarz.com)

A six-speed Sport AT automatic transmission also provides full manual control demanded by assertive drivers. Shifts are crisp, in keeping with CX-7's sportscar character.

Two drivelines are offered with the DISI turbo engine: 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 stability is assured.

REFINED CHASSIS PROVIDES ENHANCED HANDLING AND RIDE QÚALITY


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.

A theme of refinement carries over to the 2010 CX-7's platform architecture by incorporating improvements in body rigidity, lower noise, vibration & harshness (NVH) levels as well as reduced wind noise. Thicker materials, reinforcements and weld bonds (spot welds supplemented by adhesives, first applied in the CX-9) in key areas all contribute to a five percent higher torsional rigidity than the original CX-7 with only a minimal increase in weight. Thicker density insulation in both the engine compartment and interior cabin provide a quieter passenger environment. A-pillars fitted with large moldings reflect an effort to suppress cabin noise generated by side winds blowing across the exterior of the A-pillars.

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 rear multi-link suspension is similarly mounted in its own subframe and consists of one trailing arm and two lateral locating members per side.

The front and rear dampers have been retuned for 2010 with larger oil-flow openings and are 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 of these refinements assist in greater ride comfort, handling and stability, combined with lower NVH throughout the vehicle.

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.

NEW EMOTIONAL SÚRFACE EXPRESSION

Wheel sizes include 17-inch, 18-inch and all-new 19-inch alloys, depending on trim level.

The 66-degree windshield angle is sleeker than many sportscars, let alone SÚVs. Distinct character lines run through the A-pillars and along the edges of the hood to the front fascia. Prominent front fenders reveal a clear Mazda family identity.

The side profile sports an aggressively rising belt line, curved roof and prominent fender arches, producing Mazda's unique signature. A tapered cabin rests securely on the lower body's broad shoulders. From the rear, the detailed round motif tail lamp and large dual exhaust outlets (available on 2.3-liter DISI Turbo models only; normally aspirated models incorporate a large single outlet) also emphasize the Zoom-Zoom sportscar feature.

This distinctive overall exterior design is well balanced with the aerodynamics of the vehicle. While it provides outstanding aerodynamic performance, this exterior design does not compromise craftsmanship. Panel and component part-gaps are flush and tight. Wiper arms are configured to match the surrounding cowl design and minimize wind noise. Attention to detail makes this car what it is.

INTERIOR DESIGN - QÚALITY DETAILING

The updated premium look on the outside is continued on the inside of the vehicle with quality detailing that delivers a sporty yet highly refined cabin. A new steering wheel with integrated steering-wheel mounted controls for the audio, Bluetooth® telephone and cruise-control greets the driver upon entry. A new design for the blackout meters of the meter cluster features newly introduced blue-ring illumination, white pointers and three-dimensional dials to produce a heightened sense of quality.

CX-7's unique double-roof instrument panel is modified as well. The upper roof is no longer straight but now adopts a gently undulating shape. This was changed so designers could install the new Multi Information Display (MID) positioned in the center and to the right of the driver for easy reading. The MID offers navigation (standard on Grand Touring trim), trip computer functions, rear-view camera (available on Touring and Sport, standard on Grand Touring) and maintenance information. It is placed clearly in the driver's line of sight, requiring only a slight refocus from the road ahead to see directional instructions or check the radio station readout. There are two types of LCD screens available for the MID - a 3.5-inch monochrome dot matrix screen or a bright, high-resolution 4.1-inch color screen, which is standard on Grand Touring models and available as an option on Sport and Touring models.

Piano black or metallic edges are added to the center panel to convey a sense of refinement.

The CX-7 facelift interior was developed with new materials placed at various locations around the cabin to give an even more premium look and feel. The rings on the side air conditioner vents are specially plated with anti-glare chrome. New front and rear door armrests are introduced as well, which incorporate soft pads for enhanced quality feel and more comfort than before.

Advanced equipment is introduced on the 2010 CX-7 that provides even more functionality to the driver and passengers. CX-7 features Bluetooth® compatibility (all models except SV), which provides a wireless connection for Bluetooth® -compatible mobile phones and portable audio devices. For audio devices not compatible with Bluetooth®, the auxiliary jack from the current model is also available.

The front seats of Grand Touring models gain an available three-position memory function for the driver's seat and a four-way power adjustable passenger's seat.

A Blind Spot Monitoring System, similar to the one found on the MAZDA6 and CX-9 is now available to help the driver avoid collisions with other vehicles when changing lanes or merging with traffic. At 20 mph or more, radar sensors monitor an area that extends on each side of the vehicle. When a vehicle or other object enters the detection area, a warning lamp in the door mirror on the relevant side comes on to alert the driver. If the driver should then switch on the turn signal, the system will emit a warning sound and flash the lamp.

All 2010 Mazdas come with a roadside assistance program. With a call to a toll-free number, owners can access roadside assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year throughout the Únited States and Canada. In addition, a comprehensive three-year/36,000-mile warranty covers every part on the vehicle except those subject to normal wear. Also, all 2010 models receive a five-year/60,000 mile powertrain warranty and a five-year/unlimited-mileage corrosion warranty.

Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Mazda North American Operations oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the Únited States, Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario; and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.

Source - Mazda

The facelift version of Mazda's popular sports crossover SÚV, the Mazda CX-7, features the premiere of its first diesel variant. After a successful launch in North America in 2006, sales were expanded to include Japan and Europe in 2007. Two years later, total sales have surpassed 165,000 units (as of December 2008) and the Mazda CX-7 has won more than 10 global automobile awards.

In developing the facelift CX-7, Mazda focused on delivering a car that is even more representative of the Mazda brand. It has an enhanced balance of styling, dynamics and affordability for even more global appeal, and stays true to Mazda's 'Sustainable Zoom-Zoom' plan, which aims to harmonize driving pleasure with environmental and safety features.

To address strong demand in Europe for a clean-running diesel with high fuel-efficiency, the Mazda CX-7 SÚV facelift has a next-generation MZR-CD 2.2-litre turbo diesel including a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system designed exclusively for the European market. It delivers a generous 400 Nm of torque to the road using Active Torque-Split All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system and joins the already well-known, high performance 2.3 litre DISI Turbo petrol engine in the line-up. And for the first time ever, Mazda's sports crossover SÚV gets a Rear Vehicle Monitoring (RVM) system and an Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) for even more active safety.

'I believe the new Mazda CX-7 is ideally positioned to compete around the world as a sustainable crossover SÚV that's a joy to own and to drive,' says Programme Manager Masashi Otsuka. 'It moves away from the North American development and marketing focus of the current CX-7 and creates a true global model. Consequently, it was vital to adopt better powertrain technologies - for example a diesel engine - and raise interior and exterior quality in ways that reflect the tastes of customers around the world, thereby giving the facelifted Mazda CX-7 a competitive position in diverse markets.'

Design - Refined for a Clearer Premium Identity
The exterior design of the facelift is based on the athletic styling of the original Mazda CX-7, pushing further the sports crossover SÚV design, while incorporating enhancements that more clearly communicate a premium identity and give it a more refined character. The Mazda CX-7 facelift's new front end, detailing and high build quality on the outside take the original model's advanced and emotional styling to the next level, while new materials and forms on the inside give the cabin a more premium look and feel.

Exterior Design


Silhouette and rear end


On the sides, newly adopted chrome-plated garnish (depending on grade) along the bottom of the doors highlights the vehicle's sporty silhouette. At the rear, the Mazda CX-7 facelift has a new chrome bar on the tailgate handle, while a new and larger rear roof spoiler (depending on grade) complements the design revisions at rear end.

Colours and wheels

A line-up of seven body colours is available with the Mazda CX-7 facelift (depending on market), all of them chosen to compliment the vehicle's sporty and strong exterior. These include three new colours: Aluminium Metallic, Stormy Blue Mica and Sparkling Black Mica. Mazda has carried forward the two original model's popular black and sand beige interior colour packages. The facelifted Mazda CX-7 features newly designed 18-inch aluminium wheels and, for the first time to the line-up, new 19-inch aluminium wheels (both depending on grade), which further highlight the new Mazda CX-7's power and refinement.

Interior Design - Quality Detailing


The enhanced premium look on the outside is continued on the inside of the vehicle with quality detailing that delivers a sporty yet highly refined cabin. The Mazda CX-7 cockpit has a new steering wheel with a sporty, premium design. Integrated steering wheel switches allow the driver to operate controls without having to look away from the road. A new design for the blackout meters of the metre cluster features newly-introduced blue-ring illumination, white pointers and three-dimensional dials that produce a heightened sense of quality.

Dashboard and centre panel updates

Materials and trim

The Mazda CX-7 facelift interior was developed with new materials placed at various locations around the cabin to give an even more premium look and feel. The rings on the side air conditioner vents are specially plated with anti-glare chrome. New front and rear door armrests are introduced as well, which incorporate soft pads for enhanced quality feel and more comfort than before. The armrest lid of the centre console is made of thick, high-resilience urethane, which has a texture combining softness and firmness for durability and comfort. With high grades, it also has a newly added soft pad.

Advanced equipment is introduced to the Mazda CX-7 facelift that provides even more functionality to the driver and passengers, and makes Mazda's sports crossover SÚV easy and fun to use on a daily basis. Like Mazda's new-generation Mazda6 and Mazda3, the updated Mazda CX-7 has a new human-machine interface (HMI) that encompasses advanced driver functionality and contributes to greater driving confidence, mainly due to its Multi Information Display.

New Multi Information Display (MID) - optimised driver information

To provide the driver with necessary information in an optimal way, a new Multi Information Display (MID) is introduced with enhanced capabilities, and positioned at the top of the centre console under the shadow of the top roof of the dashboard to be easily read. It shows current driving information like fuel consumption, maintenance indicators, rear view camera and navigation - a separate display showing audio and climate-control information, and a warning lamp area below this with a seatbelt warning and airbag cut-off indicator. There are two types of liquid crystal displays (LCD) available for the MID: a high-brightness, high-resolution 4.1-inch colour type, and a 3.5-inch monochrome dot matrix type. These are the same types as available for the all-new Mazda3.

Rear view camera and new compact navigation system with high resolution display

Some versions of the CX-7 are equipped with a rear camera that makes backing up easier. The camera's pictures are shown on the 4.1 inch colour TFT display being standard on those vehicles a compact navigation system (depending on grade) is also newly introduced to the Mazda CX-7 facelift that displays a map on the colour TFT display located in the MID as described above. It is operated by switches on the steering wheel and, combined with the high legibility of the display, makes operation and visual confirmation of readouts safe and easy while driving. The development team also focused on upgrading the basic functions and adopted a map database system stored on a compact SD card for more practicality.

New Bluetooth®-compatible audio player system

Mazda's facelifted sports crossover SÚV also has Bluetooth® wireless connection technology for mobile phones for the first time (depending on grade), which may be operated hands-free while driving. The system is more than that, however. It also provides a wireless connection between Bluetooth® -compatible portable audio players and the Mazda CX-7 audio system. Music playback from the audio player can be controlled by switches located on the audio panel or the steering wheel while driving. Additionally there's an AÚX jack located at the front of the centre console so that music on non-Bluetooth® -compatible portable audio players may also be enjoyed using the vehicle's factory-fitted audio system.

New driver seat memory function and power-adjustable passenger seat

The driver seat of the Mazda CX-7 facelift is designed to provide the optimum driving position for all types of people, and is now power-adjustable with a three-position memory function (depending on grade). The passenger seat on high grade models is power adjustable now.

Powertrains - New Clean-Running 2.2-litre Turbo Diesel

In response to growing environmental concerns and increasingly stringent emission regulations in Europe, the CX-7 facelift engine line-up delivers a newly evolved combination of sporty, refined driving performance, with superb fuel efficiency and environmental performance. For the first time, a new, powerful and low-emission 2.2-litre common-rail diesel engine, developed especially for Europe joins the 2.3-litre DISI turbo petrol.

New MZR-CD 2.2 diesel - high torque with 7.5 litre/100 km (combined) fuel consumption

The next-generation MZR-CD 2.2-litre inline four-cylinder DOHC 16-valve turbo diesel joins the line-up of the facelifted Mazda CX-7. It delivers generous maximum torque of 400 Nm at a low 2,000 rpm and maximum output of 127 kW/173 PS at 3,500 rpm.

The engine's 2.2-litre displacement, combined with turbocharger and common-rail direct injection with a high injection pressure of 200 MPa, realizes high power and torque with low emissions. Newly optimized intercooler efficiency further promotes strong and linear performance.

Cost-saving 2.2 litre DOHC turbocharged common-rail diesel

To keep customers costs low when driving, the DOHC-valve system is chain driven which allows a maintenance-free operation.

Balancer shaft and lower block for less engine noise

A front-chain-drive cassette-type balancer significantly reduces NVH. Employing this balancer improves booming noise, and produces a linear relationship between the accelerator pedal position and the engine sound, contributing to the fun-to-drive feeling.

Advanced diesel particulate filter from Mazda

Together with the 2.2 litre DOHC turbocharged common-rail diesel, a newly-developed diesel particulate filter made of a ceramic material with high thermal resistance - including Mazda's independently developed catalyst - is introduced. In addition to oxygen in the exhaust gases, this catalyst uses oxygen stored in the base material, to improve the combustion of soot emissions. This optimises the time needed for the generation of the filter (shortened by 1/3) and realises excellent emissions, without sacrificing performance for driving fun.

With the new turbo diesel under the bonnet, the Mazda CX-7 facelift sprints from 0-100 km/h in 11.3 seconds with a top speed of 200 km/h. And new to the CX-7 line-up with the MZR-CD 2.2-litre diesel is a selective catalyst reduction (SCR) system, the first ever on a Mazda vehicle that converts NOx into harmless nitrogen and water using a urea additive.

High performance MZR 2.3 DISI Turbo petrol engine

The Mazda CX-7 facelift engine line-up retains the acclaimed inline four-cylinder DOHC 16-valve 2.3-litre DISI Turbo petrol. It produces high maximum output of 191kW/260 PS at 5,500 rpm and 380 Nm of maximum torque at 3,000 rpm.

Advanced catalyst technology

As in the Mazda 3, CX-7 facelift models with the MZR 2.3L DISI Turbo engine feature Mazda's exclusive underfloor single-nanocatalyst. It employs single-nanotechnology, which can control even smaller particles than nanotechnology. Due to this advanced technology, the amount of precious metal used in the catalyst has been reduced by approximately 73 percent compared to the current model. The total weight of precious metal per unit has been cut from 0.89 grams to 0.24 grams. This new Mazda technology helps limit the use of rare natural resources and contributes to preserving the environment.

Chassis - Enhanced Handling and Ride Quality

Mazda pioneered the sports crossover SÚV sub-segment when it launched the original Mazda CX-7 as a practical but sporty utility vehicle. The facelift model enhances this aspect with a significant increase in body rigidity and suspension updates. Coupled to Active Torque-Split All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, this delivers even better handling stability and ride comfort for an even more premium driving experience befitting Mazda's flagship SÚV.

Body shell - a 5 percent increase in torsional rigidity

Mazda engineers added body reinforcements to the Mazda CX-7 facelift for a five percent increase in torsional stiffness, which translates into even better handling stability and a higher-quality ride. To minimize the weight increase that resulted from the addition of some of these reinforcements, Mazda used weld bonds, which are relatively light joints where spot welds are supplemented by adhesive between the welded parts. And the increased body rigidity further enhances quietness by softening the tone of road noise before it reaches the cabin.

Suspension - excellent straight-ahead stability and ride comfort

Tuned to suit the power characteristics of each engine, the suspension system of the Mazda CX-7 facelift employs MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link suspension system in the rear. New dampers are introduced with larger oil-flow openings to achieve smoother suspension strokes and improve stability and ride comfort. At the same time, the increased body rigidity helps enable supple suspension movement and greater firmness.

Mazda's Active Torque-Split All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system - superior traction

Like the original model, the European version of the Mazda CX-7 facelift comes standard with Mazda's Active Torque-Split All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system that helps prevent wheel spin on slippery surfaces and delivers excellent traction on dry surfaces. The vehicle's system control module distributes torque between the front and rear axles using an electronically-controlled active-torque coupling mounted in front of the rear differential. The system automatically distributes power between the axles (100/0 percent to 50/50 percent front/rear) for just the right amount of torque in every driving situation.

Steering system - Electro-hydraulic power assisted steering standard for 2.2-litre diesel

Electro-hydraulic power assisted steering (EHPAS) in vehicles with the MZR-CD 2.2 engine ensures a precise, positive steering feel by employing hydraulic pressure provided by a pump that is driven by an electric motor. Precise control over the degree of steering assistance in accordance with the speed of the vehicle, and the speed at which the steering wheel is turned, helps to minimize unnecessary fuel consumption, making the 2.2-litre turbo diesel even more frugal. Vehicles with the MZR 2.3 DISI Turbo engine are equipped with hydraulic power assisted steering that is also tuned to deliver optimal steering assist depending on vehicle speed.

Safety - New Rear Vehicle Monitoring and Emergency Stop Signal

The Mazda CX-7 facelift is not only in line with Mazda's Sustainable Zoom-Zoom Strategy for environmental performance, but for safety as well. Two newly introduced elements enhance the active safety package of Mazda's sports crossover SÚV.

Rear Vehicle Monitoring (RVM) system

The Mazda CX-7 receives Mazda's Rear Vehicle Monitoring (RVM) system for the first time. It has radar sensors in the rear bumper that detect a vehicle approaching from behind when the vehicle is moving at a speed of 60 km/h or faster. The 24 GHz radar sensors have a range of 50 m behind the vehicle and are not affected by bad weather. If a car is detected approaching from the left or right rear lanes or driving in the blind spot next to the vehicle, the system alerts the driver by turning on a warning indicator in the door mirror on the relevant side. If the driver then activates a turn signal, the indicator in the door mirror flashes and a warning buzzer sounds to prevent the driver from changing lanes.

Emergency Stop Signal (ESS)

A new ESS system is introduced with the CX-7 facelift. When the Mazda CX-7 is travelling faster than 50 km/h and the driver brakes sharply, the ESS system automatically flashes the hazard warning lights rapidly to alert following vehicles of the emergency situation.

Source - Mazda