Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring petrol 2012 review

We turn the spotlight on the car world's newest and brightest stars as we ask the questions to which you want the answers.

But there's only one question that really needs answering -- would you buy one?

What is it?

The CX-5 is a replacement for the sporty CX-7 SUV. It's a softroader that seats five, available in two and all-wheel drive with either a petrol or turbodiesel engine. It's also the first Mazda to get the full gammut of Mazda's Skyactiv fuel saving technology.

How much?

Prices range from $27,800 to $48,190. This particular one is $45,190 which includes an auto and all-wheel drive, plus the optional $1990 tech pack fitted. A diesel will cost you $3000 more than the equivalent petrol model.

What are competitors?

Take your pick. There's plenty of competition in the medium off road segment inlcuding the new Ford Kuga, Jeep's new Compass, the Subaru Forester  to name a few.

What's under the bonnet?

This one gets a 2.0-litre petrol engine that in all wheel drive guise puts out 113kW of power and 198Nm of torque at 4000 revs. It's mated to a six-speed auto with manual shift capability.

How does it go?

Not as well as the diesel, that's for sure. The petrol model has been roundly criticised for its lack of performance, especially its slow throttle response. You have to really thrash it to get it moving and that of course is going to eat into your fuel economy.

Is it economical?

Mazda is claiming best in class economy with a figure of 6.9 litres/100km. We chalked up just over 500km at a rate of 7.9 litres/100km, most of them freeway kilometres.

Is it green?

Gets four out of five stars from the Govt's Green Vehicle Guide (Prius is the benchmark with five stars).

Is it safe?

Hasn't been crash tested yet but every model across the range comes standard with the highest level of safety features including six airbags, stability control, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake force distribution plus a reversing camera.

Is it comfortable?

Boxy design provides plenty of head and legroom, with comfortable accommodation for four adults. Quiet inside apart from the intrusion of tyre noise on coarse bitumen.

What's it like to drive?

Easy peasy. Big computer screen. Highish driving position provides good vision. Steering feels direct and responsive. Auto has annoying kick down. Optional blind spot awareness system worth a look.

Is it value for money?

Finish good. Offers plenty of utility and you get plenty of kit for your money. Bluetooth standard, with steering wheel phone and audio controls.

Would we buy one?

A well equipped car for the money but we'd recommend driving both the diesel and petrol models before making a decision.