CARMAKERS typically would like to make the most media mileage when launching their new models. They squeeze this event so tight that it is very seldom that you will see two variants being introduced at the same time.
But Mazda Philippines had enough confidence in its product that it had the guts to introduce the new CX-7 and CX-9 at the same time. Mazda is more popularly known for its roadsters, so coming out with two sport crossovers is really quite a feat.
“With Mazda’s reputation of providing cars that bring a greater pride of ownership and style, we are proud to unveil today not one, but a pair of globally acclaimed sport crossovers—the Mazda CX-7 and CX-9, sport-crossover SUVs that blend the athletic attributes of a sports car with those of a SUV, carrying with it advanced emotional styling, outstanding features and exceptional handling,” said Steven Tan, vice president for marketing and sales, Mazda Philippines.
From the front, the CX-7 poses a larger five-point grille that highlights the new Mazda family face. It is accentuated by a radiator grille with black mesh linings, defined by a roof spoiler, enhanced by doors with turn lamp indicator and completed by a rear lift-gate garnish with a stylish design to connote sophistication.
This dynamic styling flows all throughout the vehicle with its tapered side windows. The 17” aluminum alloy wheels that it stands on give heightened expectance to the CX-7’s exhilarating performance.
The CX-7’s exterior is fully designed to create the perfect look that fits a sport-crossover SUV, while at the same time conveying an appealing presence, inviting people to get in and take a drive.
Inside, the CX-7 depicts a strong adherence to creating a stylish vehicle on top of the sporty driving performance that Mazda car owners have always enjoyed. Inside the cabin, the fine craftsmanship and the strong attention to details can be felt so strongly.
The center panel’s dark gray metallic tone conveys a sense of composed refinement. The door trim, door and grab handles’ finishes speak of sleekness. Seats are made of leather with slide and recline adjustments and headrests that are adjustable.
The CX-7’s reduced weight and height allows for a better drivability and handling, while its larger width and length ensure a larger cabin and spaciousness. The CX-7 has a bigger wheel base which measures 2,750 mm, and assures the stability and grip for a higher level of athleticism.
The CX-7 is also equipped with a MZR 2.5-liter engine that packs a maximum torque of 205 Nm at 5,000 rpm and a maximum output of 163 ps at 6,000 rpm. This powerhouse is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission with a wide gear range that allows plenty of torque even at low rpm.
Complete with the alphabet of safety features like the SRS airbags and ABS brake systems, the CX-7 also comes complete with in-car entertainment system and a superb climate control.
On the other side, the 2010 CX-9 has been given a significant exterior and interior facelift that will surprise even the most diehard Mazda fan. Designed to evoke a strong pride of ownership without sacrificing versatility or efficiency, the CX-9 strives for the sophisticated appearance of a vehicle costing two to three times as much.
It has a smooth and flowing silhouette, prominent wheels, muscular fenders and steeply angled windscreen that give the CX-9 a dramatic-but-refined look. The new front end is unmistakably Mazda, with its elegantly sculpted sporty five-point grille and wide, bold bumper.
A horizontal streak of chrome floats on the front grille bar, giving a distinctive and high-quality feel. The unique, trapezoid, dual chrome exhaust pipes accentuate the fine detail put into the design. Wrapped from front to rear with subtle design cues that express the “embodiment of motion,” the exterior of the latest CX-9 is sleek and sophisticated.
This CX-9 is powered by a 3.7-liter V6 engine that gives out peak power of 277 ps at 6,250 rpm. The torque curve rises strongly from 3,000 to 6,000 rpm, peaking at 367Nm at 4,250 rpm. The new Mazda CX-9 also includes an Aisin-supplied six-speed Sport AT automatic transmission with manual mode as standard equipment.
Further contributing to CX-9’s excellent drivability is Mazda’s Active Torque Split All-Wheel Drive, which rapidly adjusts to changing traction needs by monitoring wheel slippage, steering angle, yaw rate, lateral acceleration and available driveline torque.
As for size, the Mazda CX-9 rides on a 2,875-mm wheelbase providing easy access to its three-row seating. There is ample room for adults and sufficient cargo space to accommodate modern families. The 60-40 split second row carries three in comfort and offers 127mm of fore-and-aft slide travel and a reclining backrest.
In the 50-50 split third row, the seating position and legroom are among the leaders in the class in numbers and real comfort. Entry to the third row is easy, with nearly 660mm of access space between the folded second-row seat and the C-pillar. Even with the third row occupied, the CX-9 provides 487.0 liter of cargo capacity. Both second- and third-row seats fold flat to allow additional storage all the way up to the back of the front seats.
The new Mazda CX-9 is equipped with air conditioning, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry, a trip computer, cruise control, six airbags, and a choice of a Black or Sand Beige leather interior color scheme.
The Mazda CX-7 is now available at P1.495 million while the new Mazda CX-9 is currently priced at P2.899 million.
