Mazda CX-7

The CX-7's powertrain features a personality that's quite different from what's under the hood of most other utility vehicles. A 244-horsepower, 2.3-liter turbocharged, direct-injected four-cylinder engine connects to a six-speed automatic and delivers power either through front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
The all-wheel drive system that's available on the CX-7 uses a computer-controlled coupling to send up to 50 percent of power to the rear wheels when needed; the system works well for snowy and slippery roads, and it helps to deliver the turbocharged engine's burst of power more smoothly when road surfaces are slippery. In keeping with the Mazda brand's sporty image, the CX-7 handles similarly to a sport sedan because its center of mass is kept low. The vehicle's carlike MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear setup soaks up road imperfections. A rubber-isolated front subframe is also used to isolate jarring road impacts while keeping handling response tight. Large four-wheel anti-lock brakes provide impressive stopping ability and the electronic stability control works in conjunction with the AWD system if so equipped. Safety features on all CX-7s include front side airbags and side-curtain airbags that cover both rows.
Inside, the CX-7 has space for five, with well-bolstered sport seats for front occupants and a back seat that's split 60/40 and folds down to increase cargo space. With the seat down, the cargo floor has 70 inches of continuous surface, with a lip at the front to help prevent objects from sliding into the front seat. Even with the back seat up, the length of the cargo space is an ample 39 inches. The back seat is a bit tight in headroom for some taller adults though due to the swooped roofline. Special attention has been paid to storage spaces inside; the center console is large enough for a laptop, and the there are plenty of cup holders. The CX-7 comes in three different trims-Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring-each available with either front- or all-wheel drive. Base Sport models come with power accessories, cruise control, air conditioning and a CD/MP3 sound system. Touring models upgrade to heated leather seats, a power driver's seat, and a retractable cargo cover. Grand Touring models upgrade to HID headlamps, fog lamps, automatic climate control, and added chrome trim. The options list is extensive, allowing buyers to add a wealth of luxury-level equipment. The Technology Package includes a moonroof, nine-speaker Bose Centerpoint audio system, DVD navigation system, keyless start, a Bluetooth hands-free calling system and Sirius Satellite Radio. Remote engine start is offered as a standalone option.

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The New Honda All CR-V

All CR-V models are powered by a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that makes 166 horsepower. The engine has a drive-by-wire throttle and qualifies as a low-emissions ULEV-2 vehicle. A 5-speed automatic transmission transmits the power to either front-wheel drive or to all wheels through an available all-wheel drive system.
Despite the CR-V's all-4-cylinder lineup, acceleration is perky with a light load, adequate when brimming with passengers and cargo. Honda has kept the weight down, with the use of high-strength steel helping to provide rigidity, and the car-based platform and independent suspension give it a much more nimble feel on the road than might otherwise be expected in a tall vehicle; wind and road noise are also commendably muted. Honda's lightweight Real Time 4-wheel drive system brings power to the rear wheels only when the traction is needed. Overall, fuel efficiency is an impressive (for its class) 20 mpg city, 27 highway on the front-wheel drive models. Inside, the CR-V has seating for five, with a nice upright position in front (aided by tilt/telescopic steering) and impressive headroom and legroom in back, even for adults. As is expected in this type of vehicle, the back seat can be folded forward (in part or completely) to expand cargo space. On the top EX and EX-L models, a dual-deck cargo shelf adds more capacity while keeping enough space below for grocery bags. LX and EX models have a retractable center tray-table, while the upscale EX-L has a center console that extends to the back. Safety is an area that hasn't been neglected in the CR-V. Electronic stability control-a lifesaving feature designed to prevent the loss of control on slippery roads or during abrupt maneuvers-is standard, and the equipment list also includes side-curtain airbags with a rollover sensor, front side airbags and anti-lock brakes with Brake Assist. The CR-V isn't offered in a stripped-down base model; even the lowest-priced LX comes with a very long list of often-times-optional conveniences, including cruise control, power accessories, a trip computer, and air conditioning with a filtration system. The top EX-L model upgrades to 17-inch alloy wheels, a chrome grille, and other dress-up on the outside, plus leather heated seats, leather trim, heated mirrors, dual zone climate control, a security system, and a 270-watt sound system with CD changer, six speakers, and XM satellite radio. One especially noteworthy option is Honda's Satellite-Linked Navigation System, which includes voice recognition and a rearview camera. The system now includes a flash card reader that to play music files such as MP3.

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