If ever a car was grinning inanely, it’s the new Mazda CX-7. Due to be unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt motor show, the facelifted Mazda CX-7 dons a large grille whose corners are definitely pointing upwards in an open-mouth smile. It’s the new family face transferred from the latest Mazda 6 and Mazda 3.
Mazda CX-7 (2010): diesel only
Mazda has stopped importing petrol CX-7s to the UK, wisely preferring the MZR-CD 2.2-litre turbodiesel. Small wonder that nobody bought the old petrol-only CX-7!
Engineering tweaks include Mazda’s new Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system to curb the various nitrogen oxides coming out of the exhaust by a claimed 40%. It’s the first Japanese passenger car with a diesel engine equipped with an SCR and uses AdBlue liquid in the exhaust aftertreatment.
Luggage space in the CX-7 isn’t compromised by the new exhaust treatment gubbins; there’s still 455 litres to swallow family clobber.
When can I buy the revised CX-7?
October 2009. The car will be shown at the Frankfurt motor show in September 2009 – click here for our full preview of the IAA show.