Mazda CX-5: the perfect crossover

A fantastic cross-over for people who like understated-excellence in a car, says Andrew Frankel

MAZDA CX-5 2.2d SE-L

This model from £23,295

Mazda may not be the first name that comes to mind when you think of all-purpose transports for adventuring families, but with a car like the CX-5 now on the market, attitudes are bound to start changing.

This is not a car for lovers of gimmicks. It’s one for those who like quiet, understated excellence. It may not hoover up admiring glances from every street corner, but you’ll find that over time a diesel engine of world-class refinement, performance and economy is a rather more useful commodity to have up your sleeve. Another useful asset is a rear seat split not in the usual 60:40 ratio, but 40:20:40 so you can load long, thin items while still carrying four. This car was designed by people who understand there’s more to driving than just sitting and steering, but it’s rewarding to drive too