Mazda CX-7

The Mazda CX-7 is a remarkably good sporty SUV crossover effort. Slightly overlooked so far, probably because of the glaring lack of diesel power. Then again, if you’re going to have only one engine, have the 175kW 2.3-litre turbo from the Mazda6 MPS.

• Comfort

  The same sophisticated (and relatively expensive) suspension gives a decent ride, even if the need to keep the body under control mitigates any latent limo tendencies. There's plenty of room, too.

  

• Performance

  Eight seconds to 100km/h and 210km/h top speed thanks to that 175kW 2.3-litre turbo from Mazda's flagship quick sedan, the Mazda6 MPS. It's certainly a bit of a surprise when you first floor the CX-7, especially as it sounds quite special. Not going to flay the metalwork off a hot hatch, but you'll keep up with the traffic.

  

• Cool

  It's a bit of a blob, and crossovers might be practical, but they aren't really sexy are they?

  

• Quality

  Excellent interior quality - a bit of a swoopy effort that just goes to show how far Mazda have pulled up their quality socks. Most of the touch-points feel of excellent quality, but some of the trim panels in the back are a bit cheap. Should be ultra-reliable.

  

• Handling

  It's a Ford Focus/Mazda3 set-up at the rear and McPherson struts at the front, and the CX-7 handles better than it has any right to given the high profile. Still, it's the first time a crossover like this will leave a smile on your face, even with the usual clutched 4x4 system that only sends 50-percent of the torque to the back wheels once the fronts slip.

  

• Practicality

  Room for five, though it'll be a bit narrow in the rear if your mates or family are burly. The boot isn't huge at 455litres, but the seats fold easily enough if you want to carry more to make 774 useful litres.

  

• Running costs

  The lack of a diesel is the issue here; the CX-7 won't be cheap to run. You're looking at 243g/km and 11.5L/100km. But it is well equipped and relatively cheap at just $40,610.