Vehicles
Message from the Program Manager The Mazda CX-7 is based on the concept of creating a sport crossover SUV — a vehicle in which the great attributes of a sports car are blended with those of a sport utility vehicle — for the North American market. With strengths in terms of “advanced emotional styling” and “exceptional dynamic performance”, it has proven so popular that Mazda has launched it not only in North America but also in Japan and Europe. In developing the new CX-7, Mazda aimed not only to focus on the North American market, but rather to create a true global model that would satisfy the needs and expectations of customers worldwide. So, while remaining true to the CX-7’s unique strengths, we enhanced its appeal and competitiveness by further refining the combination of styling, dynamic performance, and economy it delivers in ways that reflect the growing environmental concerns of our customers and the rising cost of fuel, as well as other changes in the market environment. For the exterior design, we worked to establish a clearer premium identity by further evolving the current CX-7’s “advanced emotional styling” and by heightening quality. The interior design benefits from our raised standard of craftsmanship that enhances quality in ways that users will immediately feel and see. In matching the new CX-7 with an optimized line-up of powertrains, we selected engines that better meet market needs. The newly adopted MZR 2.5 gasoline engine is characterized by superb fuel economy and drivability. And the MZR 2.3 DISI Turbo engine delivers superior emission performance without compromising the Zoom-Zoom driving performance that drivers expect of Mazda. In addition, we made various improvements in handling stability, ride comfort, and quietness to ensure yet higher quality in driving performance. The keyword in the development process was “refinement” or “SENREN” as we call it in Japanese. To me, this word brings to mind the meticulous process with which Japanese swordsmiths forge and hone the fine swords for which Japan is famous. And just as the Japanese swordsmith combines materials to make swords both sharp and durable, I guided development of the new CX-7 in a way that combined the talents of experienced and enthusiastic Japanese, American, and European engineers. I was also mindful of a Japanese culture of craftsmanship whereby each generation of craftsmen passes its skills and knowledge to the next in the hope that successive generations will create ever-better objects. To my mind, the key to making the new CX-7 successful globally as Mazda’s flagship SUV and as a Japanese car was to refine the existing model in a way reflecting both the art of Japanese swordmaking and the Japanese culture of craftsmanship. I’ve always had a passion for creating cars that customers are delighted to own. Creating such cars is not just a matter of getting the specifications right; it’s also about realizing pleasure and satisfaction of a kind that can’t be inferred from specifications alone. I feel the new CX-7 is a winner on both counts. It fully embodies the refinement I envisaged, and I believe it’s ideally positioned to compete around the world as a sustainable crossover SUV that’s a joy to own and to drive. New Mazda CX-7 Program Manager Masashi Otsuka Introduction – 2010 Mazda CX-7 From the moment it was introduced in 2006 as a 2007 model the Mazda CX-7 offered a blend of sports car verve and SUV practicality in a way that few other crossover vehicles could. As Mazda’s sportiest entry into the segment the CX-7 crossover utility vehicle differed from a traditional utility vehicle thanks to its sporty styling and turbocharged engine. For the 2010 model year the CX-7 is the recipient of an exterior and interior styling refresh to complement a host of engineering refinements. “The vehicle we had to start with was already really good and well liked by consumers, so my team didn’t have to start over, but simply refine.” said Masashi Otsuka, Mazda Motor Corporation’s CX-7 program manager. The CX-7 made its world debut at the Canadian International Auto Show in February of this year. Powertrain: MZR 2.5 I-4 normally aspirated Leading the way of the improvements is a new engine option. Making its first appearance under the hood of the entry level CX-7 GX model is Mazda’s all-new naturally aspirated DOHC 16-valve 2.5 litre MZR four-cylinder that produces 161 horsepower at 6000rpm and offers maximum torque of 161 lb-ft at 3500rpm. It is available with Front-Wheel Drive coupled to a light-weight, efficient, 5-speed automatic transmission. Advanced features utilized in the MZR-series engines include chain-driven dual overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder for deep breathing at high revs and efficient torque delivery at lower revs. Counter-rotating balance shafts located in the oil pan provide a dramatic reduction in the vibration and harshness often found in large-displacement fourcylinder engines, and a forged steel crankshaft ensures excellent long-term durability. Fuel is delivered to the intake ports by an electronically controlled sequential injection system, where the modular ignition coils are positioned directly above the spark plugs for increased efficiency and reduced maintenance and under-hood complexity. Other lightweight items are the aluminum block and head, the forged powder-metal connecting rods (reduced reciprocating weight), and the injection-molded, nylon-reinforcedplastic intake manifold which also provides smooth internal passages for more efficient air flow. Overall, the normally aspirated 2.5-liter MZR engine delivers excellent off-the-line and overtaking characteristics, and is a strong match for the CX-7s dynamics. Powertrain: MZR 2.3 DISI Turbocharged GS & GT trim levels of the 2010 CX-7 continue to be powered by the award-winning 2.3L DISI (Direct Injection Spark Ignition) turbocharged engine. Output remains the same, 244 horsepower at 5,000 rpm with 258 lb-ft of torque at 2,500 rpm. More than 90 percent of the engine’s maximum torque is available, which makes for a smooth and comfortable driving experience. Engineered to deliver high performance at all engine and road speeds, along with low exhaust emissions and good fuel economy, the engine is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission featuring a revised shift pattern for more efficient operation, as well as a newly adopted slip lockup control, which promotes fuel economy. The sole driveline offered with the DISI turbo engine is Mazda’s Active Torque-Split All-Wheel- Drive, which uses a computercontrolled coupling integrated with the rear differential to deliver up to half the available torque to the rear wheels on demand. The DISI MZR engine uses it own specific aluminium block and head construction, including a specific forged crankshaft and connecting rods for long-lasting durability. A large airto- air intercooler and direct fuel injection cools temperature inside the cylinders and allows use of a relatively high compression ratio without fear of knocking or pinging – “detonation” in industry terms – that reduces durability. Utilizing extremely high pressure in the fuel injection system – up to 3,000 psi – allows the fuel to be atomized as it is delivered to the cylinders. This shift in the gasoline’s state from liquid to vapor in the intake manifold as it is injected into the cylinder provides the substantial cooling effect. The low charge temperature permits the application of a 9.5:1 compression ration, boosting low- and mid-range torque by approximately 10 percent over conventional turbo engines. For 2010 the MZR 2.3 DISI incorporates changes for enhanced driving performance and cleaner emissions. New pistons feature a crown with a dish-shaped cavity that promotes mixing of the gasoline and air to realize better combustion efficiency before the engine has fully warmed up. Fuel is also injected not only during the intake stroke but also during the compression stroke to cause a richer mixture to form around the spark plugs. The resulting increase in combustion stability significantly reduces unburned hydro-carbons. These refinements enable shifts to higher emission-compliance ratings. The design of the new piston shape yields improved combustion efficiency, and it shortens the delay between pressure on the accelerator pedal and the beginning of acceleration during an off-the-line start. To mitigate the sudden torque rise that typically characterizes turbocharged engines is a revised boost-pressure control method to delivers boost in a more linear manner. Consequently, pressure on the accelerator pedal results in responsive acceleration with a smooth rise in torque delivery. Unlike other high-performance turbo-charged engines, the CX-7’s DISI turbo engine is tuned to run on either regular or premium fuel. Both engines feature the world’s first under-floor catalyst to employ singlenanotechnology. Mazda developed a unique catalyst base material that allows precious metal particles less than 5 nanometers (nm) in diameter to be embedded into it. These single-nano particles remain fixed in their original positions even when exposed to the heat of exhaust gases. The new structure maintains the same level of purifying efficiency with minimal deterioration over time, even under the harshest operating conditions. This new technology from Mazda helps limit the consumption of rare natural resources and contributes to the preservation of the environment. The total weight of precious metal per unit has been cut from 0.89 grams to 0.24 grams compared to the current MZR 2.3L DISI Turbo model. For active safety, the 4-wheel antilock brake system is complemented by an electronic brake force distribution function (EBFD) and a brake-assistance function, as well as a skidreducing DSC system and a TCS. Integrated control of the ABS, DSC system, and TCS results in automatic engine torque and brake control inputs that help to keep the car stable if, for example, the driver enters a corner at too high a speed, or has to make a sharp turn to avoid a pedestrian on a slippery road. In case the car gets stuck in loose ground, a TCS-OFF switch allows the driver to disable the TCS. With the TCS disabled, the driver has greater control over traction and can extricate the car more easily. The DSC system continues operating while the TCS is disabled; if a large traction difference occurs between the left and right wheels, the DSC system automatically controls the brakes to maintain a high level of ability to extricate the vehicle. Chassis – Refined Chassis Provides Enhanced Handling and Ride Quality A theme of refinement carries over to the 2010 CX-7’s platform architecture by incorporating improvements in body rigidity, lower noise, vibration & harshness (NVH) levels as well as reduced wind noise. Thicker materials, reinforcements and weld bonds (spot welds supplemented by adhesives, first applied in the CX-9) in key areas all contribute to a five percent higher torsional rigidity than the original CX-7 with only a minimal increase in weight. Thicker density insulation in both the engine compartment and interior cabin provide a quieter passenger environment. A-pillars fitted with large moldings reflect an effort to suppress cabin noise generated by side winds blowing across the exterior of the A-pillars. The rear wheel housings are stiffer owing to material that is 0.35mm thicker and to weldbonded joints. Each door opening and each B-pillar is stiffer owing to 31 additional spot welds. The shelf gussets are made of material 0.2mm thicker; the corner plates are made of material 0.3mm thicker; and there are newly added L-shaped reinforcements. And at the front, the cowl side reinforcements are made of material 0.2mm thicker. As a result, the new CX-7 achieves 5% higher torsional rigidity than the original CX-7, which contributes to its superior combination of handling stability and ride comfort. Produced entirely on Mazda-derived platform architecture, this light, stiff unibody provides the sound foundation for CX-7’s smooth ride and agile handling. Computer-Aided- Engineering analysis was used to optimize this structure, delivering high torsional and bending rigidity with minimal weight. The body incorporates front and rear crumple zones, which mitigate the effects of a front or rear impact, and a super-rigid triple-H structure formed by H-shaped floor, side, and roof members, which protects the cabin. Up front, a perimeter frame mounted to the unibody through six rubber isolators supports the powertrain, the engine-speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion power steering and a low-friction MacPherson strut suspension system. The rear multi-link suspension is similarly mounted in its own subframe and consists of one trailing arm and two lateral locating members per side. The front and rear dampers have been retuned for 2010 with larger oil-flow openings and are located between the wheel hub and the unibody to provide excellent motion control with minimal friction. At the same time, the increased body rigidity helps enable supple suspension movement and greater firmness. All of these refinements assist in greater ride comfort, handling and stability, combined with lower NVH throughout the vehicle. Exterior and Interior – Emotional Surface Expression While the 2010 CX-7’s styling is based on the athletic design of the current model, it incorporates enhancements for a clearer premium identity and more refined character. The exterior design features a revised lower front grille with a larger five-point design similar in appearance to the one adopted recently on the Mazda RX-8, MX-5 and Mazda3. In addition to highlighting the Mazda brand, the lower grille’s larger opening area also contributes to increased cooling performance. On either side of the larger grill are new front foglamp bezels which add in creating a strong visual flow. On the GT model chrome trimmed moldings that surrounds the grill, windows and lower door garnishes are some of the details that express a premium identity while highlighting the vehicle’s unique flowing form. The rear fascia has been revised as well. The 66-degree windshield angle is sleeker than many sportscars, let alone SUVs. Distinct character lines run through the A-pillars and along the edges of the hood to the front fascia. Prominent front fenders reveal a clear Mazda family identity. The side profile sports an aggressively rising belt line, curved roof and prominent fender arches, producing Mazda’s unique signature. A tapered cabin rests securely on the lower body’s broad shoulders. From the rear, the detailed round motif tail lamp and large dual exhaust outlets (available on 2.3-liter DISI Turbo models only; normally aspirated models incorporate a large single outlet) also emphasize sportiness. This distinctive overall exterior design is well balanced with the aerodynamics of the vehicle. While it provides outstanding aerodynamic performance, this exterior design does not compromise craftsmanship. Panel and component part-gaps are flush and tight. Wiper arms are configured to match the surrounding cowl design and minimize wind noise. On the inside the 2010 CX-7 receives higher quality materials and graining, which reduces the collection of dirt between the dimples of the grain. New front and rear door armrests are introduced as well, which incorporate soft pads for a more pleasing tactile quality. New chrome-plated rings on the center and side louvers of the air conditioner vents deliver some sparkle to the interior with the inner surface of each of the center louver rings rounded to disperse reflections. Piano black or metallic edges are added to the center panel to convey a sense of refinement. A new design for the gauges include blackout meters that feature threedimensional dials, ringed in blue illumination with white pointers to help produce an upscale look. A new steering wheel with integrated steering-wheel mounted controls for the audio, Bluetooth telephone and cruise-control greets the driver upon entry. Bluetooth compatibility provides a wireless connection for Bluetooth compatible mobile phones and portable audio devices. For audio devices not compatible with Bluetooth, an auxiliary jack is standard equipment. On GT models the front seats gain a three-position memory function for the driver’s seat and a power adjustable recliner for the passenger’s seat. A Blind Spot Monitoring System, similar to the one found on the Mazda6 & CX-9 is now available to assist the driver in avoiding collisions with other vehicles when changing lanes or merging with traffic. Radar sensors cover each side of the vehicle and when they detect a vehicle or other object, the system alerts the driver by emitting a warning sound and turning on a warning lamp in the door mirror on the relevant side. On GT models the Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry System enables a user to lock and unlock all the doors and tailgate by simply pressing a button on the driver’s door handle, provided the user is carrying a transmitter. The system allows the user to start the engine by simply turning the ignition switch. The engine can be turned off again by turning the ignition switch back. CX-7’s unique double-roof instrument panel is modified as well. The upper roof is no longer straight but now adopts a gently undulating shape. This was changed so designers could install the new Multi Information Display (MID) positioned in the center and to the right of the driver for easy reading. The MID offers trip computer functions, rear-view camera (standard on GT) and maintenance information. It is placed clearly in the driver’s line of sight, requiring only a slight refocus from the road ahead to see directional instructions or check the radio station readout. There are two types of LCD screens available for the MID – a 3.5-inch monochrome dot matrix screen or a bright, high-resolution 4.1-inch color screen, which is standard on GT models. A 7-inch Navigation screen is optional on GT models. Mazda Canada inc. Is responsible for the sales and marketing, customer service and parts support of Mazda vehicles in Canada. Headquartered in Richmond Hill, Ontario, Mazda Canada has a nationwide network of 165 dealerships. For additional information visit Mazda Canada’s media website at
www.media.mazda.ca
