Orlando Sentinel's view

Television commercials for the 2007 Mazda CX-7 concentrate far more on its sportiness than they do on its utility, which is appropriate, because the CX-7 tries very hard to put some fun into driving an SUV. And for the most part, it succeeds.

Based on the same platform as the Mazda6 — an excellent place to start — the CX-7 is a five-passenger sport-ute that, unlike some SUVs, makes no pretense about how rugged it might be off-road. My guess is: not very. The CX-7 comes with standard front-wheel drive, but there is an all-wheel-drive option, though it’s more for maintaining sure-footedness on slick roads than tackling the outback.

Mazda certainly isn’t alone here. The fastest-growing segment of the automotive market is these midsize “crossovers,” which are sport-utes based on a car, not on a truck. Some car-based crossovers are certainly beefier than others — Subaru likes to advertise its products as ready to rough it — but vehicles such as the CX-7, and the upcoming Ford Edge, which will share a lot of components with the Mazda, are more an alternative to a minivan or station wagon than to a backwoods-capable truck.

In that case, given its limitations, and its abilities, the CX-7 is indeed one of the sportiest SUVs available. The engine is a 2.3-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder that pumps out a healthy 244 horsepower. Most sport-utes this size have a V-6, but the CX-7’s four-cylinder leaves nothing on the table. Mated to a smooth six-speed automatic transmission, acceleration is brisk. Exactly why a four-cylinder needs big, chrome-tipped dual exhaust outlets — well, style is important, I suppose.

And for an SUV, the CX-7 has plenty of style. With contemporary transparent taillights, big fender flares, alloy wheels and a teardrop profile, it looks as if it belongs in the company of more expensive SUVs, such as the Lexus RX330 or the Infiniti FX35.

Though the CX-7 is heavier than the Mazda6 and has a higher center of gravity, handling is as good as any SUV this size, aided no doubt, by big P235/60-R18 tires. But it isn’t a Mazda6, nor should you expect any SUV to be. The all-wheel-drive system operates transparently, allowing the CX-7 to run along in front-wheel drive in normal situations, but if needed, the onboard computer can send power to the rear wheels. My lone complaint about handling, and it’s a minor one, is that the steering feels lighter than it should on a sporty vehicle. A little more road feel would be nice.

Inside, the CX-7 is nicely appointed, especially the top-of-the-line Grand Touring version, tested here. Sport is the base model, and Touring is in the middle. Even with the entry-level model, there are plenty of standard features, including stability control and side air bags. The front-drive Sport starts at $23,750, and the tested all-wheel-drive Grand Touring lists for $29,060 with one option and shipping. Click every option box, including a navigation system, and you can ratchet the CX-7’s price up and over $34,000.

Front bucket seats are roomy and comfortable enough, and the rear seat is adequate for adults, though headroom is modest. Luggage space in the rear is generous given the CX-7’s size, but if you need more room, you may want to wait for the Mazda CX-9, which is about 18 inches longer than the CX-7, and has a third-row seat and a 3.5-liter V-6 engine. Expect it early next year.

For many customers, though, the CX-7 may be just the right SUV at the right time. Although there’s already plenty of competition in this segment of the market — with more on the way — it’s hard to imagine that many will get as much of the package right as Mazda has with the CX-7.

Base price: $23,750.

Price as tested: $29,060.

EPA rating: 18 mpg city, 24 mpg highway.

Details: Front engine, all-wheel-drive SUV with a turbocharged, 244-horsepower, 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission.