Cars Reviews

2010 Mazda CX-7

The big news coming out of the Canadian International Auto Show for 2010 is that the CX-7 is getting a new 2.5-liter normally-aspirated four-cylinder model (the same engine is employed in the 2010 Mazda6 and Mazda3). So-equipped, the CX-7 generates 161 horsepower (at 6000 rpm) and maximum torque of 161 pound-feet of torque (at 3500 rpm). The turbocharged, 244-horsepower 2.3-liter engine remains unchanged. Further details like fuel-economy, price, and trim specification for this model will be revealed “at a later date,” and in fact there is no official confirmation that the normally-aspirated inline-four will come to America, although it would be hard to imagine Mazda not doing so.

For 2010, Mazda’s performance-minded SUV gets a makeover inside and out. The changes add up to a great value equation — the CX-7 is a great family SUV with cool styling and a sporty driving experience.

Test drivers find the 2010 Mazda CX-7 continues to offer deliciously sporty performance, especially for an SUV. Though reviewers heavily criticized the previous model’s fuel economy, a new normally aspirated engine for 2010 offers a more efficient option. “Cruising down the coast, we felt — if only for a moment — that there might be something to Mazda’s claim of ‘the soul of a sports car,’” says CNET. “The CX-7 has the heart. Mazda’s crossover certainly feels sporty in the power and the handling departments, as long as you don’t push it too hard.”

2010 Cadillac SRX

Initially referred to as the Cadillac BRX, the SUV will use the SRX name globally, execs tell us. GM offered a sneak peak of the five-passenger SUV at Pebble Beach, with promises it will debut on the auto show circuit later this year. The final product stays relatively true to the Cadillac Provoq concept we first saw at the 2008 North American International Auto Show.

The SRX is Cadillac’s entry in the competitive mid-size luxury SUV market that includes competitors such as the Lexus RX350, BMW X5 and Mercedes ML-Class. First introduced in 2004, the SRX was completely redesigned for the 2010 model year onward.

Pros:
* Bold style
* Rich, stylish interior
* Powerful base engine
* Excellent brakes

Cons:
* Rear styling a little heavy
* Engine noisy under full throttle

2010 BMW X6 M

The 2010 X6 M represents the most dramatic shift in BMW’s Motorsport division since its inception – and it’s not because they’re the first crossovers branded with the tri-tone “M” badge. This high-riding duo are the first M machines ever to be equipped with all-wheel drive. The first fitted exclusively with an automatic transmission.

The X6 M is a high-performance variant of BMW’s controversial head-turning crossover. Unveiled at the New York Auto Show in 2009, the X6 M uses a potent version of BMW’s twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8. Output is pegged at 555 horsepower at 5,750 rpm and peak torque is 501 pound-feet, available between 1,500 and 5,650 rpm. The car can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, according to the automaker.

Pros:

* Ferocious power
* Dynamic BMW handling
* Merino leather seats cradle the passengers in luxurious comfort
* Appeals to a niche market

Cons:

* Barely acceptable rear cargo space
* Limited view looking back through hatchback window
* Head-up display is marginally useful