Our cars: Mazda CX-7 2.2D - January

Mazda CX-7 2.2D Sport Tech
Mileage 12,000AS

As I bundled our boys into the back of the CX-7, with the roads to school seemingly paralysed by the recent snowfall, I could see the fear in my wife’s eyes. So I turned to her and whispered those three little words that mean so much: four-wheel drive.

Being able to call upon the rear axle for a bit of extra help doesn’t seem very important for 360 days of the year, but for the other five it’s essential. The CX-7 did a fine job of handling our first winter snow. Our journey to school includes urban roads, a dual carriageway and some country lanes, and none really tested the outer limits of the Mazda’s cold-weather capabilities.

Even when the surface was split between icy slush and wet asphalt, the traction control and anti-lock brakes kept everything in check, without giving the passengers or me a fright. All very reassuring.

Shame then, that having arrived at school, the only person there to greet us was Mr Walker, the caretaker. Perhaps we should suggest to all teachers that they buy something with four-wheel drive next time.

We’re ready for the CX-7’s first service now, so it’s time to put the Mazda dealer network to the test. Let’s hope they’re as capable in the cold as the car.

Andrew.Golby@whatcar.com