After the redesign of the three-row CX-9 in 2016 and new generation of the Mazda CX-5, rumor has emerged that this brand has more plans for its crossover SUV lineup. Namely, with the growing demand for the SUV vehicles brands expanding their offer with the new models. Mazda might do the same and the name of the rumored model will sound familiar. The new addition to Mazda’s crossover SUV lineup will allegedly be the 2018 Mazda CX-7.
The same name was used for Mazda’s vehicle which was discontinued in 2012 and made the room for the now super-popular CX-5. With the size that was somewhere between the compact and mid-size category, not so good fuel economy and inefficient interior space, the sales of this model were mediocre. However, the new model promises to solve all its downsides and be competitive in the SUV market.
What we know about the 2018 Mazda CX-7 is coming from the unofficial sources and we don’t have an evidence from the company about this model. Based on the car industry speculations the new CX-7 would arrive on the stretched version of the CX-5 platform which has been revised for the new generation of Mazda’s compact crossover. The CX-5 is among segment’s smallest examples and the CX-7 should be a more comfortable offer from the Mazda. It should naturally be smaller than the CX-9 but we don’t know how much.
On the other hand, the exterior of the model should not the be the surprise as it will draw an inspiration from Mazda’s Koeru concept. It should mean that model will adopt brand’s latest KODO design form which would make this model effective and elegant in the same time. The model will have slim headlights and Mazda’s signature grille on its front side. Dynamic body sculpting will also add to its appearance and sources also suggesting that this model might get a sportier profile with the fastback roofline. The rear side should include Koeru inspired taillights and sporty rear bumper.
Inside, the model should mimic the design seen on Mazda’s most models especially on the newest CX-5 and CX-9. It will get Mazda’s comfortable seats and cloth upholstery in the base trim. All models should also have Mazda’s latest infotainment system with the smartphone compatibility and a top of dash mounted center screen.
Upgrades will include the leather upholstery, premium sound system, attractive trim accents larger wheels, power and heated seats, and so on.
If Mazda will launch this model, it will, of course, get active safety features like the lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, etc. Many brands made much of these features standard but the current CX-5 offer them in the upper trim level and that could also be with the new CX-7 as well.
When it comes to the powertrain options, rumors suggesting that Mazda won’t reinvent the wheel yet it will pick the engine options from its current parts bin. One option could be a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine which motivates the new CX-5 with 187 hp and torque of 185 pound-feet. The new CX-5 also offers the diesel engine option and it could be available with the CX-7 as well. A 2.2-liter turbodiesel could offer more than 180 hp and healthy torque. However, it would be nice that this model gets a 2.5-liter turbo engine from the CX-9 which can produce 250 hp.
A 6-speed automatic should be mandatory like in Mazda’s other mentioned models. This smooth transmission system will send power to the standard front-wheel drive. As an option, the 2018 Mazda CX-7 will offer the four-wheel drive.
Mazda hasn’t commented on the rumors about the 2018 Mazda CX-7 so far. According to some sources, we should expect it toward mid-2018. The price should start in upper 20, 000 range.