Monday, May 17, 2010

Review: 2010 Mazda CX-7 i Sport does a lot with less


May 14th, 2010, 4:30 am · 14 Comments · posted by Matt Degen

When Mazda’s CX-7 arrived about three years ago, it became one of several crossovers whose DNA heavily reflected a car rather than a traditional sport utility vehicle. That, of course, isn’t much of a surprise coming from Mazda, known for sporty cars like the MX-5 Miata and RX-8, which give credence to its “zoom-zoom” motto.

The CX-7 became a quick hit, but because it was only available with a turbo-charged engine, the vehicle came with a price higher than many of its peers, a tag that could easily reach over $30,000 with options like all-wheel-drive and a navigation system.

For 2010, though, Mazda says it has recognized a consumer need for a lower-priced version of the CX-7. To get the price down, the crossover is now being offered in two base forms with Mazda’s 2.5-liter naturally aspirated (non-turbo) four-cylinder engine that is also found in the Mazda6 and Mazda3.

With the introduction of these models, the CX-7 now has a wallet-friendly starting tag of $22,450, about $4,000 less than the beginning price of models with the turbocharged, 244-horsepower 2.3-liter four, which remains available in two other versions of the CX-7.

I recently spent a week behind the wheel of a 2010 CX-7 i Sport with the newly available base engine, wandering all over Orange County to see if this lower-priced CX-7 could pull its proverbial and literal weight.

n addition to shaving thousands of dollars off the cost of the more powerful versions of the CX-7, those with the base engine – offering 161 horsepower, 161 lb.-ft of torque – save on fuel, too. My front-wheel-drive tester was rated at 20 city/28 highway, vs. 18/25 for a front-drive turbo version. In real-world driving, I got between 24 and 25 mpg drinking regular unleaded (premium is required for the turbo).

To my eye, the CX-7 is a svelte, good looking vehicle whose angles mimic a sports car. The vehicle has a minimum of 8.1 inches of ground clearance, meaning that it might be able to tackle some ruttier paths that would snag its competitors, but that adversely affected the speed at which you can take corners. Don’t try to mimic a Miata in this thing; it is, after all SUV-like tall and must be treated as such.

Drive-wise, it was difficult to find much not to like about this CX-7 except its relatively tame engine. The ride was compliant and comfortable, with good visibility. Inside, all controls were within easy reach. If, like me, your regular ride is a Mazda, you’ll feel right at home behind the wheel.




See complete story here http://auto.freedomblogging.com/2010/05/14/review-2010-mazda-cx-7-i-sport-does-a-lot-with-less/34139/

http://www.ocmazda.com

Friday, May 14, 2010

At Huntington Beach Mazda, we've been planning a big surpise for our service customers!

Welcome to Orange County's ONLY Zoom-Zoom Express
  • It's our one-of-a-kind
  • fast
  • convenient
  • easy-in-easy-out
  • maintenance at a competitive price!
Making way for the new Zoom-Zoom Express service stalls!



After all, a great new program, and a first for Orange County, has to have the BEST home! Two new service stalls have been added to our extensive service line-up so your Zoom-Zoom Express can be just as we promise; fast, convenient and competitively priced!

Jennifer James, Service Manager for Huntington Beach Mazda, (seen above) invites you to try her new Zoom-Zoom Express. A fast service for those of you on the go!
Don't forget to combine your Zoom-Zoom Express with breakfast or lunch at our cafe. (Cafe open Monday-Friday)

Zoom-Zoom at your Huntington Beach Mazda Service Department means Fast-Fast!

Now servicing ALL makes and models!

Call 714-848-7739 and make your zoom-zoom service appointment.
Hours:
Mon-Fri 7am-6pm
Sat. 8am-5pm
Sun. Closed
Make your appointment on line at http://www.ocmazda.com/service/index.htm




http://www.ocmazda.com/

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

From Steve Goodman, a new customer and a great, new friend!


Steve Goodman and his son, Danny, came by the Tustin Mazda store to look at a car for Danny. They took home a Mazda 3 and seemed very happy with their choice.

That could be the end of the story, however, Steve had a few things to say about the experience. Steve called in a few days ago and spoke with our Customer Care rep. He wanted to make sure his comments were shared on-line and who are we to object?!

Steve wound up meeting John Patterson on the day he and Danny came in. Steve was struck with how much time John spent with them, even though JP mentioned a meeting he had to leave for. He talked to Danny about school and shared with Steve his thoughts on business. Steve was impressed with how comfortable everyone was at the dealership and the sense of teamwork he observed. Steve indicated that it was the best car buying experience he has ever had and he was so pleased his son was able to observe it. He has always expressed to Danny to only do business with ethical, honest companies. He told Danny, "If you do, you'll always be pleased with the product". That night, Danny remarked to his dad that he now understands what Steve meant about doing business with someone you trust. Steve tells us Danny will now have to buy all his cars from John, as he can't guarantee that Danny will continue to have such a positive car buying experience elsewhere. (Steve, we are totally OK with that...!)

~And Steve, the employees here have a note for you! As pleased as you were with your experience, we are just as happy! Our boss seems to get busier by the day, but we all know what he loves to do the most...and that's have the opportunity to sit down with his customers and get to know them. He was able to have that time with you and Danny, and we can't thank you enough for that! You made his day and that always makes ours! Welcome to the family. We hope to see you and Danny often.





http://www.ocmazda.com