dropping by, need some CX-7 info

[mpvue]

just coming over from the Mazda5 section, I have some questions in behalf of my parents. they have a CX-9, decided it's too big, and want a CX-7 AWD.
1. do all years of the 2.3 turbo engine require high octane fuel?
2. any model years to avoid?

thanks people!

 

[RaiderMS3]

1) 2007 only. But they run like s*** on 87. Less MPG, less performance.
2) 2007's is the easy target, 1st year.
3) Get a newer one without a turbo.

 

[mpvue]

1) 2007 only. But they run like s*** on 87. Less MPG, less performance.
2) 2007's is the easy target, 1st year.
3) Get a newer one without a turbo.

thanks! but, the non-turbo ones are FWD only right? if you want AWD you HAVE to get a turbo?

 

[RaiderMS3]

Yup. I could not imagine 4000 lbs non-turbo powered to be worth anything anyway.

If they get it, just tell them to cough up the 1-2 bucks per tank for 91+. They will enjoy the car more. If it costs too much, they should just not get a CX-7. Regular gas is a selling tool only, the car will detune to run the crap.

 

[erhayes]

07 require 91 or higher, but, later models state you can run lower but, the is a compromise with power AND fuel economy.

 

[eprx799]

I agree completely . We got much worse milage with the 87. I usually use Shell 93 and we just refueled it and got 19.8 mpg. mostly highway miles btw.

07 require 91 or higher, but, later models state you can run lower but, the is a compromise with power AND fuel economy.

 

[mpvue]

I agree completely . We got much worse milage with the 87. I usually use Shell 93 and we just refueled it and got 19.8 mpg. mostly highway miles btw.

wow, that mpg sucks IMO. I still kind of like the CX7, but I think mazda really screwed up the spec on it; a small vehile should really be getting better mpgs than that.
BTW, since I stared this thread, my parents bought a '08 Saturn VUE XE. it's real nice.

 

[eprx799]

wow, that mpg sucks IMO. I still kind of like the CX7, but I think mazda really screwed up the spec on it; a small vehile should really be getting better mpgs than that.
BTW, since I stared this thread, my parents bought a '08 Saturn VUE XE. it's real nice.

The milage does suck but you are hauling around a heavy vehicle w/ allwheel drive. I have an '07 speed3 with the same motor and I get 27.5mpg both vehicles are totally stock btw.

 

[mpvue]

The milage does suck but you are hauling around a heavy vehicle w/ allwheel drive. I have an '07 speed3 with the same motor and I get 27.5mpg both vehicles are totally stock btw.

exactly; what I meant was, I don't think the turbo engine was the best choice for the CX7. a larger V6 probably could of gotten better mpg.
I test drove a CX7 once and I was not impressed w/ the acceleration. if I'm going to deal w/ low mpg and high octane, I want better get up and go than that.

 

[fkong777]

Hi, Sorry to jump in the thread but Im also looking for info. Im also looking at a CX-7. from my readings.. I came to the conclusion;
1. avoid 2007 (Timing Chain issues)
2. expect about at the most 20mpg if I dont have a heavy foot.

Questions.
1. 2008 models reliable?
2. AWD or FWD. AWD is usually about 2-3K more in the use car market.
3. also looking at 2008 Rav4 Sport, Highlander , or a Mitsubishi Outlander - anyone would recomend toy, mitsu over mazda?

 

[ootpek]

I keep seeing people posting about horrible gas mileage and how much premium costs. Granted for a full tank premium can be $5 more around here in Toronto so I get that. But didn't anyone look at the gas mileage before buying? Or even compare to other vehicles in the same class? Comparing to a "3" is worthless. For instance the Saturn Vue XE mentioned above with the V6 and AWD is listed as worse mileage than the CX-7 GT. When I did my research the CX-7 was a little bit higher than the average is all.

Of course with a turbo...if you drive around with a lead foot you are going to get much worse mileage of course.

 

[09WhiteBlackAzz]

get a toyota highlander limited. 2008. rwd. 25+mpg 260 hp v6 lots of room. acceleration is great, runs on 87 octane. downside is initial cost they are not cheap

 

[wannabe]

Hi, Sorry to jump in the thread but Im also looking for info. Im also looking at a CX-7. from my readings.. I came to the conclusion;
1. avoid 2007 (Timing Chain issues)
2. expect about at the most 20mpg if I dont have a heavy foot.

Questions.
1. 2008 models reliable?
2. AWD or FWD. AWD is usually about 2-3K more in the use car market.
3. also looking at 2008 Rav4 Sport, Highlander , or a Mitsubishi Outlander - anyone would recomend toy, mitsu over mazda?

We have an 08. Its been to the dealer.....never. I need to take it in at some point, I think the transfer case has developed a small leak, but otherwise, we've had it for 2.5 years, 30,000 miles, and zero trips for maintenance.

we have the AWD, and with snow tires, its been the most rock-solid snow cars I've driven. I say this knowing that you are in socal, and therefore don't know what snow is. FWD is probably fine for your usage.

the Rav4 is too small, the outlander is ok, but its fugly, didn't look at the highlander too closely, don't remember why...edit: oh yeah. that price tag.