Mazda CX-5 2015 Problems

I would not bother with all-wheel drive unless you hit bush tracks. The Mazda CX-5 is our first choice in that class, beating the Honda fairly easily in most areas.

You should never just buy a badge. The CX-5 is a better car, and considerably better value, than the Audi Q3. It's best in the class, gets The Tick from me, and is far better value than many prestige SUVs.

I would not recommend a Captiva. At the moment, the CX-5 is best in class but the Tucson also gets The Tick.

The advantage of the Sorento is that it's a seven-seater, so it will have more space for a big trip. Do not go for diesel unless you travel more than 30,000km a year, otherwise it will take too long to recoup the extra cost of the engine.

A Mazda CX-5 would be the best bet, and gets The Tick, but also look at a Subaru Forester which is more car-like and will be better around town when you're not towing.

The first of the born-again Beetles was severely compromised because the rounded body sat over the mechanical package of the boxy Golf. But the new car looks good, almost like a Porsche, drives well and is well equipped. I give it The Tick and will help you track down a good deal.

You should drive and compare the CX-5, the long-term leader in its class, and the new Tucson. Don’t go for seven seats unless you really need them because of the extra price and ongoing penalty in running costs.

The CR-V is a good car, and gets The Tick, but it's still beaten in its class by the Mazda CX-5 so take a comparative drive before you commit.

The CX-5 is a clear winner for what you want and is virtually a weekly recipient of The Tick.

In that size and price class, I'd go for a Mazda CX-5. It gets The Tick from me, you can get front-wheel drive variants and there are ample choices on equipment.