Although it seems like the CX-7 was just launched yesterday, it actually reached the market in 2006 – as a 2007 model. Major changes aren’t expected to take place until 2013 – give or take – but we’re already seeing evidence of an upcoming freshening.

Our photos of the CX-7, taken just this week somewhere in Michigan, show that Mazda is well on the way with a facelift. Most noticeable are the much larger side air-intakes, giving the CX-7 a much more aggressive look. Tape is hiding the other revisions on the front fascia, as well as in the tail lamps, making it obvious that several minor tweaks are in-store for the CX-7.

Expect the CX-7 to borrow some of its styling cues from the recently unveiled MX-5 and the redesigned Mazda3, bringing the small ‘ute more in line with Mazda’s new corporate face.

Underhood, we don’t expect to see any major changes to the CX-7’s turbocharged four-cylinder. No word on when the revised model will bow, but a late 2009 reveal seems likely — just in time for the 2010 model year.