MAZDA believes its new CX-7 Sports Crossover is set to drive the Japanese company into a fresh sales sector.
The model differs so much from other sports utility vehicles that it will create a new niche in the market, claims UK sales and marketing director Mark Cameron.
'In the best Mazda tradition, our new car offers something that is distinctively different. It is sporty in its styling and driving dynamics while offering a commanding driving position and a strong road presence,' he says.
On sale in November, the four wheel drive model features a new 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine developing 400Nm torque, has stiffer bodywork, re-tuned suspension and revised gear ratios. The five-seater will be sold as a single model priced at £25,785.
Standing on 19-inch alloy wheels, it has xenon headlights and numerous premium features as standard, including: leather seats, climate control air-conditioning, cruise control, electric front and rear windows, electric driver's and front passenger's heated seats, a bespoke BOSE® premium surround sound audio system with six-CD autochanger and nine speakers, plus integrated satellite navigation and Bluetooth® technology.