Honda CR-V vs. Mazda CX-7 Review

Utility
Both the 2010 Honda CR-V and the 2010 Mazda CX-7 offer two- and all-wheel (or four-wheel) drive versions and come in multiple trim levels. The CX-7 offers a 2,000-pound tow rating superior to the CR-V's 1,500-pound towing capacity, while the CR-V comes out ahead with almost six extra cubic feet of luggage room and 14 cubic feet more total cargo capacity.

Performance
A 180-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine powers the 2010 Honda CR-V, while the Mazda CX-7 offers a 161-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a 244-horsepower, turbocharged 2.3-liter inline-four. The Honda CR-V comes with a five-speed automatic, whereas the Mazda CX-7 offers choices of five- and six-speed automatic transmissions.

Fuel Economy
With fuel economy ratings of 21 mpg city and 27-28 mph highway, the CR-V has the advantage over the CX-7's 17-20 mpg city and 23-28 mpg highway ratings. The Honda CR-V produces 7.7 to 8.0 metric tons of CO2 per year, which soundly beats the CX-7's range of 8.0 to 9.6 metric tens per annum.

Technology
Base trim levels of the Mazda CX-7 feature options of a rearview camera, satellite radio and a TV with DVD entertainment system; the LX base-model CR-V can't match any of those items. Step up to the EX model CR-V, and you fight back with a standard-equipment sunroof; the sunroof in the CX-7 s Touring is optional. The top-of-the-line models come out near even, except the CX-7 offers a stereo upgrade and is notably more expensive. Both models also offer Bluetooth and media device connectivity as well as a navigation system.

Safety
These quality SUV's both feature antilock brakes with brake assist, stability control systems and multiple airbags. The CX-7 adds a blind spot monitoring system to its bag of tricks.

Other
More features are packaged into the base models of the CX-7 than the CR-V, and the very base models start at about the same price, but the CX-7 pulls ahead in cost as you tack on more goods. If you want more driving pleasure, go with the faster and better handling Mazda CX-7. If you want more cargo room and plenty of options a lower price, then the Honda CR-V fits your bill.