Search Car Reviews



See all makes



Mazda Diesel CX-7 vs Audi Q5

Mazda has finally given its CX-7 SUV a diesel engine in a bid to attract buyers. We see if it measures up to Audi’s popular Q5.

mazda audi

January 2010

Well equipped, smartly styled and good to drive, the CX-7 has always been an attractive proposition – but for one glaring omission. In an SUV market dominated by diesels, the classy Mazda has been available only with a thirsty 2.3-litre petrol engine. Now the Japanese company has finally fitted an oil-burner, so will the established 2.2-litre unit give the car the success it deserves?

Billed as a 4x4 that’s not designed to go off road, the CX-7 aims to blend the looks of an SUV with the driving experience and spirit of the brand’s sporty RX-8 and MX-5. It has plenty going for it thanks to its six-speed manual gearbox and punchy 171bhp motor, but since the model first appeared in 2007, the mid-sized SUV segment has changed a lot – which means the Mazda now has plenty of rivals. None is more accomplished on the road than the Audi Q5. It’s a premium choice, which offers diesel power, a quality cabin and car-like handling.

So, a diesel engine means the CX-7 is ready for a rebirth, and the single-model range couldn’t be simpler. How will it fare against one of the best compact SUVs around?

For an alternative review of the latest Mazda CX-7 visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk

What Next

For more breaking car news and reviews, subscribe to Auto Express magazine. We'll give you 6 issues for £1 and a free gift!

< Previous   Next >

Sponsored Results

6 Comments

Residual value

Odd that the Mazda's residual value within the magazine is given as only £9140 (34.7%) after 3 years, yet on the facts and figures provided here it has risen to £10800 (41%). Whereas the Q5's residual value has fallen from 51.8% within the magazine to 48% here. A 7% gap is much closer than the 17% shown in the "hard copy".......

By Jacamar on 14 January, 2010, 6:29pm

Just 1 thing

An Audi will last so long. A Mazda will last a lifetime.

By lucasworld on 17 January, 2010, 11:56pm

Is this a fair Comparison ?

Sure they are SUV's, sure they have 4x4, four doors and a boot and as I recollect leather as standard. Oh and a limited range of colours... But it would help if you listed the standard equipment, extras and costs, oh, forgot to mention the generous scrappage deal on the Mazda. Yes they have two different badges and I guess the cache that goes with it... But take a moment to read (and cost out) the extras on either car and you will see the Mazda's on another planet in terms of Value. I cant speak for residuals and take on board Jacamar's comment. but having spent the last 3 months evaluating all in this class the Mazda wins for me. So much so my new one arrives Next Month...

Yes The Audi Q5 Is a nice Motor but I suggest those interested Give the Mazda a review, not just on the road but over a coffee..... I woke up and went East !

By Kevin1516 on 18 February, 2010, 1:28pm

true!

I agreed with everyone here. The Mazda is a really understated car.Its ashame really, not many people knows Mazda do a SUV. When i told my friends i was getting a SUV mazda they had no ideas!! But was really interested in it. I think Mazda uk needs to a bit more advertising for it. I test drove one last week and will be recieving one in 2 weeks time. It is a great car. I have also read loads of reviews about it . From other car magazines, the opinions divides. But from owners 99.9 % are happy with it. The resales are weak only because people dont know about this car so therefore demand for it is low. I would definitely recommend this car to anyone. Test drive it and u will see why.

By tlc888 on 29 May, 2010, 9:45pm

....me too!!

My other half has an 09 A5 but raves about the Mazda's interior/dash. The A5 dash is like an old 3-series Beamer's and Q5 is similar(all are A4's really anyway). Price up a Q5 with Mazda's standard Rear Vehicle monitoring, Bose sound (Audi B&O is crap in A5), sat nav, memory seats, 19''alloys, BT, cruise, xenons,tyre press mon.,heated seats,rear side airbags,priv glass..the list goes on...the Mazda IS under-rated and quite wrongly so. Sorry Audi I went east too !

By pilchard on 14 August, 2010, 2:55pm

Like Mazda but.......

I will need a replacement for my 5 series BMW before very long. It needs to be easy to get in and out of and be a diesel. I saw a CX-7 locally and thought it might fit the bill but I find it does not offer an auto gearbox, something which other competitors offer and is a serious ommision. The diesel version of the Mazda MPV also lacks an autobox option. Wake up Mazda, you are losing potential customers!!

By driver on 1 October, 2010, 3:09am

You need to register to post comments. Existing members can log in below to comment, otherwise click here to join.



Sponsored Results

Social Bookmarks

Full Car Reviews

Audi Q5

Audi Q5 2.0 TDI

Established model offers typical Audi quality and a car-like drive.
Mazda CX-7

Mazda CX-7

Smart and sporty SUV takes oil-burning route to rejuvenation.
- Advertisement -

Sponsored Results

Facts and Figures

Verdict

The CX-7’s sleek looks, sharp handling and long equipment list ensure it’s no longer the forgotten SUV. The 2.2-litre diesel provides strong performance and decent economy, and with its mix of value, style and driver engagement, the Mazda is now a superb package.

However, the Q5’s premium cabin gives it a more upmarket feel and the car provides a dynamic masterclass. Not only is it more composed, refined and comfortable than the Mazda, but it’s also great to drive. And Audi’s proven 2.0-litre TDI engine delivers very similar performance to the larger capacity unit.

The telling factors here, though, are financial ones. With better residuals, lower emissions and superior economy, the Q5 takes the win. The CX-7 is a welcome arrival to the diesel SUV class, but look beyond its bargain price and the Audi is a more appealing choice.

Ranking
1st - Audi Q5
The Q5 has all the qualities we’ve come to associate with Audi, thanks to a high-end cabin, understated style and class-leading residuals. It’s also great to drive, refined and practical, which makes it the best on-road SUV around.

2nd - Mazda CX-7
The CX-7’s attractive price and generous equipment levels are real incentives. It’s also good to drive, with sharp and engaging handling. Only its weak resale values and firmer ride comfort really count against it here.

 
- Advertisement -