Market Position:
The 2009 Mazda CX-7 aimed to blend the utility of an SUV with the driving dynamics of a sports car, targeting buyers who desired a more engaging driving experience in the compact crossover segment.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Murano, and Ford Edge, often differentiating itself with sportier handling and performance-oriented powertrain options.
Key Features:
Distinctive sporty styling, available turbocharged engine, agile handling for its class, optional AWD, and a well-appointed interior. Navigation system was a premium option.
Coverage Areas:
Introduction, Instrumentation, Controls and Features, Starting and Driving, Maintenance and Care, Specifications, Navigation System
Manual Type:
Navigation Owner's Manual
Source:
Original Factory Navigation Manual
Systems Covered:
Navigation System (Map display, route planning, destination entry, points of interest, settings), Audio System Integration, Climate Control Interface, Vehicle Settings (display, security), Warning Lights and Indicators, Driver Information Display
Procedures Included:
Operating the navigation system, setting destinations, using route guidance, customizing navigation settings, understanding system messages, basic troubleshooting of the navigation unit, integrating with other vehicle systems
Technical Depth:
User-focused operation and basic system management for the navigation system. Does not cover detailed electronic diagnostics or repair procedures of the navigation unit itself.
Software Requirement:
PDF Reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader)
Searchable Text:
Likely searchable, dependent on original scan quality
Print Quality:
Digital, quality depends on original source
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital)
Primary Engine:
2.3L MZR DISI Turbo I4 (Optional)
Base Engine:
2.5L MZR I4 (Standard on some trims)
Turbo Horsepower:
244 hp @ 5000 rpm
Turbo Torque:
258 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm
Base Horsepower:
173 hp @ 6000 rpm
Base Torque:
167 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Fuel System Turbo:
Direct Injection, Turbocharged
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (Recommended for Turbo), Regular Unleaded Gasoline (Acceptable for Base)
Emission Control:
California Emission Standards (on applicable models), Federal Emission Standards
Standard Transmission:
5-speed automatic (with Activematic shifter)
Optional Transmission:
N/A (5-speed automatic was standard across most configurations)
Transmission Features:
Driver-adaptive learning, manual shift mode
Drive Type:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD) - Active Torque Split
AWD System Type:
Electronically controlled active torque split AWD system
Length:
183.7 inches (4666 mm)
Width:
72.7 inches (1847 mm)
Height:
64.7 inches (1643 mm)
Wheelbase:
106.2 inches (2697 mm)
Ground Clearance:
7.5 inches (191 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 97.1 cu ft (2749 L)
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
Approx. 22.7 cu ft (643 L)
Cargo Volume Seats Down:
Approx. 45.7 cu ft (1294 L)
Curb Weight FWD:
Approx. 3,650 lbs (1656 kg)
Curb Weight AWD:
Approx. 3,792 lbs (1720 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4,800 - 4,950 lbs (2177 - 2245 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Not Recommended for Towing (typically)
Standard Wheel Size:
17-inch alloy
Optional Wheel Size:
18-inch alloy, 19-inch alloy (depending on trim)
Standard Tire Size:
P225/65R17
Optional Tire Size:
P235/60R18, P245/50R19
Bolt Pattern:
5 x 114.3 mm (5 x 4.5 inches)
NHTSA Front Driver Crash Test:
Good
NHTSA Front Passenger Crash Test:
Good
NHTSA Side Driver Crash Test:
Good
NHTSA Side Passenger Crash Test:
Good
NHTSA Side Rear Passenger Crash Test:
Good
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4/5 Stars
IIHS Front Offset Barrier:
Good
Active Safety Features:
ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, Traction Control, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, Front side-impact airbags, Side-impact curtain airbags (front and rear occupants), Active front headrests
Infotainment System:
Mazda's 'Advanced Keyless Entry & Start System' with integrated navigation unit (optional). Features include touchscreen interface, AM/FM/Satellite radio, CD player, MP3 playback, auxiliary audio input.
Navigation System:
Factory-integrated touch-screen navigation system with voice recognition and real-time traffic updates (subscription may have expired).
Driver Assistance Features:
Rear parking sensors (optional), rearview camera (optional on some trims).
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth hands-free phone capability (optional), USB integration (may be limited).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, or every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) under ideal conditions (refer to manual for specific guidance).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Check every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed (typically 30,000 - 45,000 miles)
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually
Spark Plug Replacement Turbo:
Refer to manual, typically around 45,000 - 60,000 miles
Transmission Fluid Change:
Check fluid level regularly, change based on severe driving conditions or mileage recommendation (e.g., 60,000 - 90,000 miles, refer to manual)
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified (for both engines, though turbo may benefit from specific synthetic)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.7 US quarts (4.4 L) with filter for 2.3L Turbo; Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter for 2.5L
Coolant Type:
Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mazda ATF FZ (for 5-speed automatic)
Power Steering Fluid:
Mazda Genuine ATF or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon
Common Issues Turbo:
Turbocharger lag, carbon buildup in direct injection engines, potential oil consumption issues, fuel injector clogging.
Common Issues General:
Rattles and squeaks from interior trim, occasional power steering pump noise, check engine lights due to various sensors (e.g., MAF, O2), potential oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil cooler seals.
Brand Heritage:
Mazda has a long history of producing vehicles known for their engaging driving dynamics ('Zoom-Zoom' philosophy), quality engineering, and distinctive styling.
Model Introduction:
The Mazda CX-7 was introduced for the 2007 model year as a new entry in the growing crossover SUV market, aiming to capture buyers seeking a sportier alternative.
Generation:
First Generation (2007-2012)
Updates For 2009:
The 2009 model year saw the introduction of the naturally aspirated 2.5L MZR I4 engine as a base option, alongside the existing 2.3L turbocharged DISI engine. Minor styling tweaks and interior refinements may have been present.
Production Location:
Mazda's Hofu Plant, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan
Awards:
While the 2009 CX-7 didn't garner a multitude of specific major awards, it was generally praised for its sporty driving dynamics and stylish design within the crossover segment, often being cited as a more engaging option than many competitors.
Consumer Reports Rating:
Mixed, with some model years receiving average to below-average predicted reliability scores, particularly concerning the turbocharged engine and transmission.