CX-7 arrives under $40K

Mazda has launched its new all-roader with a sub-$40,000 recommended retail price.

The long-awaited, much-spun CX-7 went on sale this week in two variants priced from $39,910. Powered by a 170kW (approx) version of the 2.3-litre direct-injected turbocharged petrol four that features in the MPS 6 and MPS 3, the all-wheel drive five-door SUV is expected to account for more than 550 sales per month.

The 'entry-level' CX-7  features air-conditioning, power windows and mirrors, trip computer, ambient temperature display, automatic headlamps on/off, wheel-mounted audio and cruise control, six-disc CD player (MP3 compatible), fog lamps and remote central locking with dual stage unlock.

Its active safety package includes six airbags (dual front, front side and head protecting curtain airbags), traction control, ABS anti-lock brakes, DSC and the Active Torque Split AWD system.

The up-spec CX -7 Luxury adds leather trim, a glass sunroof, a power-operated driver’s seat with eight-way adjustment, heated front seats, a nine-speaker 240W BOSE sound system, heated side mirrors and climate control air. Mazda says the Luxury model will account for 60 per cent of CX-7 sales.

Australia is the first right-hand drive market in which the CX-7 has gone on sale.

Mazda Australia managing director, Doug Dickson, said: "The CX-7 is a very welcome addition to our range with its combination of style, performance, practicality and value unrivalled in the Australian market.

"CX-7 gives us a second entrant into the popular SUV market [joining the Tribute] and gives new and existing Mazda customers another reason to choose Australia's top-selling import brand."

Look for CarPoint's launch review of the Mazda CX-7 soon.