Mazda CX-7 Vs. Honda CR-V
The Mazda CX-7 and the Honda CR-V are import sport/utility vehicles available in the United States as entry-level models from their respective makers. While the two vehicles have some things in common, there are several important differences that may make each more appropriate for a driver's specific needs.
Other People Are Reading
-
Mazda CX-7 Information
-
Mazda introduced the CX-7 in 2007 after showing it as a concept car at the 2006 Los Angeles Auto Show. The CX-7 is a mid-size crossover SUV with four doors and a front-engine/front-drive configuration, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The CX-7 is powered by a turbocharged 2.3-liter inline-four-cylinder engine rated at 244 horsepower. It also uses a six-speed automatic transmission. The Mazda CX-7 is sold in three trim levels: sport, touring and grand touring. The all-wheel-drive option can be combined with any of these models, with the differences coming instead from standard and optional convenience features.
Honda CR-V Information
-
The Honda CR-V is a compact SUV introduced by Honda in 1996. It has been available in three generations, with major updates coming in 2002 and 2007. The current model features a 2.4-liter inline-four-cylinder engine and a five-speed automatic transmission, resulting in 166 horsepower. The CR-V has four doors and is available with front-drive or optional all-wheel drive. Honda offers the CR-V in LX, EX and EX-L trim levels, each of which is available with the all-wheel-drive system.
-
Similarities
-
Despite one model being a compact and the other a mid-size, the Mazda CX-7 and Honda CR-V share much in common. Each is a four-door SUV with seating for five and a rear liftgate. The two vehicles share several safety features, including all-wheel anti-lock brakes, electronic brake assist, a tire-pressure-warning system and an array of airbags that includes front, side and side curtain airbags. They also include many of the same convenience features such as power automatic door locks, remote keyless entry and a sound system with MP3 capabilities.
Key Differences
-
There are several important differences between the Mazda CX-7 and Honda CR-V as well. As a mid-size model, the Mazda CX-7 is somewhat larger, at 5 inches longer and 2 inches wider than the Honda CR-V. Despite this, the Honda has a significantly larger cargo volume and just 1 cubic foot less passenger space than the Mazda. The CX-7's turbocharged engine gives it more power, but also cuts overall fuel economy from the CRV-s mid-20s to just around 20 miles per gallon.
Comparison for Buyers
-
With so many different trim levels to choose from, any buyer interested in either the Mazda CX-7 or the Honda CR-V should consider researching the other model. Mazda's CX-7 is generally prices at $2000 to $3000 above a comparably equipped Honda CR-V, but its more powerful engine and larger overall size give it a performance advantage. In the end, a buyer's decision may end up being based on brand loyalty or particular dealer incentives.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit baku13: http://commons.wikimedia.org
