Sensors monitor engine information, individual wheel speeds, Anti-lock Brake System ( ABS ) operation, and the CX-7's standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC ) system to optimize torque distribution. Whether the driving conditions are dry and fast or slippery and moderately paced, exceptional handling is assured.

There is a caveat to the handling. You do get a vehicle that has a much stiffer suspension than you might expect in a crossover SUV. For folks coming out of sport sedans, the Mazda CX-7 will feel remarkably familiar. But with this vehicle, you get plenty of room for a young family, plus a lot of style, both outside and inside.

Powering the CX-7 is a powerful 2.3-liter turbocharged four cylinder engine with a stout 244 horsepower  that has almost no turbo lag. The engine also packs 258 lbs.-ft. of torque, which is on hand down low in the rpm range that really helps this vehicle get up to speed. The engine 's torque peaks at a low 2,500 rpm when 258 lb-ft of torque is available. It is tuned so that muscular feel begins at 2,000 rpm.

Inside, comfy leather seats and a lot of extras are available, including a navigation system and rear camera to help when backing up. Out tester was extremely well equipped, with features you usually see on premium vehicles costing much more. The same is true for how the interior was designed. Everywhere there are details that set this vehicle apart. The dash is a two level affair with a panel, that in red LEDs show the radio and air conditioning settings.  The night lighting is also upscale looking and should appeal to folks and passengers. The cabin is filled with red lights that add a sport ambiance to the interior. The Mazda CX-7 offers a wealth of entertainment gear.

The CX-7 offers AM, FM, and CD play capability as standard. Sirius satellite radio is available as an option. To further support driving pleasure and convenience, a touch-screen D VD -based navigation system with voice commands and a rear-view camera system are available to select as an option. In addition, buyers may choose a BOSE  premium sound system package that includes n ine speakers, approximately 240 watts of amplification, a six-CD changer and CENTERPOINT surround-sound system that offers five-channel digital imaging.

One thing we did have a problem with was how the speed is displayed. Mazda chose to leave nearly half of the speedometer display to show the transmission indicator, which moves the speed numbers to the left. So, 60 mph shows up way down on the display where you would normally find, say 30. Driving in town means paying close attention to the speedometer or you could easily find yourself speeding, and a new-found friend with the local police.

There are numerous details that we liked as well. The hood is supported on hydraulic struts, the service points were easy to find, and the poise of the CX-7 on the road draws a lot of admiring looks.  While certainly style is in the eye of the beholder, in silver, the CX-7 is very attractive and boldly styled, especially from the front, which has an aggressive stance. The

CX-7 is offered in three trim levels. Some of the highlights of the standard features are manual air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, retractable key, cruise control, and six air bags. Also standard on all CX-7s is an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and a Traction Control System (TCS).

Our CX-7 was equipped with the optional keyless entry system. This system means there is no key to open or start the vehicle and no key slot anywhere to be found. What you get is a thin, credit card-size fob that senses your approach to the vehicle, and once inside, you turn a knob where the key in a regular version would go.

Overall, the Mazda CX-7 has a lot going for it. Terrific styling inside and out that is both sporty and upscale in appearing. What certainly not a low slung sports car, it still handles sprightly and most people will find it fun to drive, we sure did.