Mazda CX-5 Problems

You've read my mind. After a back-to-back last week with the CX-5 I'm now recommending the Sportage as top in its class. Both get The Tick from me. I think the Sportage is as impressive as the Kia Sorento people-mover that's our reigning Car of the Year.

The XV will be fine around town but is very small in the boot, and the same goes for the CX-3. If you want a similar cabin and boot space to the Liberty then go for the CX-5, but also have a look at the new Kia Sportage.

Yes, I agree that SUVs are a good choice of vehicle for older drivers; as you say they afford you a good view of the road ahead and your surroundings, and they're easier to get in and out of. They are, however, larger and that can make them awkward for older drivers who have a greater tendency to bump into things. If you choose an SUV the CX-5 is a good one. Should you decide against the SUV you could look at the Mazda 6, Subaru Liberty, Toyota Camry, Kia Optima or Honda Accord. All are good cars. Another to think about is the Subaru Outback, a high-riding version of the Liberty.

I’m surprised that they couldn’t find the cause of the problem, but impressed that they are prepared to replace the car. I wouldn’t be too concerned about the problem happening again, but I would be upset that it will take four months for them to find you a replacement car. That’s unacceptable. I would expect them to move heaven and earth to get you a new car, after all they’ve got your money and now they’ve left you without a car. I hope that they have at least given you a courtesy car for the time you have to wait.

Kia and Hyundai are both good, with the Tucson currently ahead, but before he commits he should also drive a Mazda CX-5 as it's best in class today and gets The Tick.

Both the CX-5 and the Tribeca are good choices; they're capable, well built and reliable. Others to consider are the Kia Sportage and Sorento. While they are Korean like the Captiva, unlike the Captiva they're very good cars, well built and reliable.

While I imagine that it's possible to modify the electronics to do what you want, I doubt it's as simple as you seem to think. To do it now on a 2012 isn't something I imagine Mazda would be interested in. Perhaps you could take it to an auto electrician and see if they could do it for you.

The CX-5 is still best in class but a new Kia Sportage has just arrived and promises to be just as good. I’d steer you towards a Subaru Forester or Outback. They drive like a car, are more refined and easily handle country roads.

Mazda released a so-called “fix” for the problem you have. It involves a new dipstick and modified software for the diesel particulate filter. The operation of the DPF was said to be the cause of the problem according to a Mazda spokesman when the “fix” was released. Go to your dealer and have the rework done.

The Mazda is an excellent choice but also test drive the Sportage. Buy a fully loaded car for the safety gear but sunroofs and big alloys aren’t worthwhile. A pre-registered 2015 car with low kilometres is a smart way to buy.