DESIGN & ENGINEERING

score 4.1

MAZDA says this second-generation CX-5 features a “fully revised body structure”, using the firm’s Skyactiv underpinnings. Changes include a 15 per cent improvement in the body’s torsional rigidity, which has enabled engineers to tweak the suspension to offer more comfort, apparently without compromising the CX-5’S trademark engaging dynamics.

In line with the firm’s Skyactiv philosophy, you won’t find any downsized engines here. Instead, Mazda calls its power units “right-sized”. This means the four-cylinder turbodiesel is larger than its competitors’ engines at 2. 2 litres. It produces an identical 148bhp but 40Nm more torque than both of its rivals, at 380Nm in total.

There are some other advances under the bonnet. Mazda has added its G-vectoring Control, which adjusts engine torque on the way into corners to help improve turn-in response, while a newly designed pin that secures the piston to the connecting rod in the engine helps dampen vibration and boost refinement.

Mazda has also focused on improving quality and design inside. The cabin is familiar, but the look is slicker, with higher-quality materials used. While there are still some harder plastics in some areas, on the whole it’s more tactile than the Skoda or VW.

The extra quality is backed up by a decent level of kit even on this entry-level SE-L Nav variant, which gets LED headlights, sat-nav, Bluetooth, DAB, cruise control and all-round parking sensors as standard.

Given the CX-5 in SE-L Nav form is £1,605 cheaper than the Kodiaq and undercuts the Tiguan by a fairly hefty £3,170, it looks like good value. However, does the rest of the package carry this off, and is this price advantage negated when it comes to fi nance deals?