2006 Kia Carens vs. 2012 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2012 Mazda CX-7 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Kia Carens. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Kia Carens would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda CX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda CX-7 (161 HP) has 24 more horse power than 2006 Kia Carens. (137 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Carens. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda CX-7 weights approximately 124 kg more than 2006 Kia Carens. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Mazda CX-7 (218 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Carens. (162 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Carens. 2012 Mazda CX-7 has automatic transmission and 2006 Kia Carens has manual transmission. 2006 Kia Carens will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda CX-7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Carens | 2012 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Carens | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 161 HP |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1462 kg | 1586 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4681 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1646 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
