61: Mazda CX-5 – Handsome crossover that’s also good to drive

Top cars for 2018: Very much an evolution but struggling to keep up with latest in-car tech trends

It looks like an all-new model, but actually the Mazda CX-5 is a thorough reskin of the car that saved Mazda's financial bacon, the 2012 CX-5. Underneath, you'll find the same 'SkyActiv' chassis and 2.2-litre diesel engine that propelled the firm up, up and away from near-bankruptcy half a decade ago.

So perhaps it’s not surprising that Mazda didn’t want to change all that much, and to be fair, it didn’t need to. The new styling looks sharper and more ‘premium’ than that of the old car, and the cabin has taken a noticeable step up in quality too.

The sharp handling and steering, which made the CX-5 one of the best SUVs of all to drive, remain too, as does the 2.2-litre diesel engine which is smooth, has plenty of guts, but is always a little more thirsty than you expect it to be. Infotainment system is a let-down, and the price tag is a little high, but it’s an impressive vehicle, with typically Mazda attention to detail and quality.

Best model: 2.2d 150hp Executive SE

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Prices start from: €28,995

Finance package from: €294

CO2 emissions: 132-152g/km

Sum-up: Handsome and good to drive, but needs an infotainment upgrade.