2006 Mazda CX-7

The CX-7 receives an all-new platform instead of sharing the Ford/ Mazda CD3 platform used by the larger Mazda CX-9/ Ford Edge/ Lincoln MKX crossovers as well as the Mazda6. It uses the front suspension of the Mazda MPV minivan, with the rear suspension from the Mazda5. Many of the all wheel drive components come from the Mazdaspeed 6. It shares its turbocharged engine with the Mazdaspeed6. It uses either a 6-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission. The CX-7 currently slots between the Tribute and the CX-9.

Power comes from the same 2.3L straight-4 MZR engine used in the Mazdaspeed 3 and Mazdaspeed 6 coupled with a 6 speed Aisin automatic transmission, and tuned to produce 244hp or 182kW (Australian model 175 kW) at 5000 RPM and 258ft·lbf (350N·m) of torque at a low 2500rpm, 99% of the maximum torque is available to 5000rpm.

The MZR 2.3L DISI turbo engine found in the MAZDASPEED3 and MAZDASPEED6 has been retuned in the North American-Spec CX-7 to deliver torque at a lower RPM for less turbo lag off the line. This was achieved thanks to a redesigned, smaller KO4 turbocharger. UK-Spec CX-7's feature the same, larger KO4 turbocharger and transmission found in the MAZDASPEED line.