Mazda 5 TS2 2.0 litre

	The most noticeable feature is the sliding doors, which are unique in this segment. They make access to the second and third rows easy, although the outer middle chairs don’t slide out of the way as cleverly as they do in the C4

The Best Compact MPV in our New Car Honours this year, the Mazda 5 has firmly placed the Japanese firm on the family car radar. From a style point of view, it has a clean look that, although not groundbreaking, is modern and inoffensive.

But the most noticeable feature is the sliding doors, which are unique in this segment. They make access to the second and third rows easy, although the outer middle chairs don’t slide out of the way as cleverly as they do in the C4. The rear seats offer similar space to the Picasso, and also pop up and down with ease.

However, the 5 has a unique ‘6+1’ seating layout that differentiates it from other class contenders. The two chairs in the middle row slide, recline and fold flat, and both have lift-up bases: the right hand one concealing extra storage, while the left contains a cushion, which flips out to form the base for the seventh seat. The central armrest then doubles as a back support.

This middle chair is only really for temporary use, because it’s too narrow and firm to be comfortable. But with a wheelbase 22mm longer than the C4’s, legroom is good, while a flat floor and decent headroom further improve accommodation. Solid build quality and decent materials also impress.

Ford Focus-based underpinnings mean the 5 is pleasant to drive, offering agile handling and a decent ride. The engine disappoints, though – it’s slow to respond in lower gears and feels breathless compared to its rivals. Nevertheless, the 5 is functional and handles well, while its price tag offers good value, too.