Mazda Problems

You need to take it to a mechanic for a diagnostic check to find the cause of the problem. It sounds like it could be in the transmission; perhaps the powertrain module could be at fault.

The CX-7 is a well-built, roomy, medium-sized SUV with the choice of 2.5-litre petrol engine and a 2.2-litre diesel. The diesel is the more economical of the two. Reliability is not a concern, you can buy with confidence.

Without being able to view it and hear it firsthand it's hard to suggest what might be wrong. It could be a bearing in the turbo, but that's only an educated guess. I would have a mechanic check it.

The latest update actually arrived this week, and you can read our full review here.

The best times to buy are usually the end of the financial year, or at model run-out times, that's when the specials are on. The CVT and dual-clutch autos are both still unknowns in terms of long-term reliability, but either should be ok over the five years you plan to keep the car. Any of the cars you list, and the list is a long one, would be ok. It really comes down to what you like.

It’s likely to be one problem that is causing all of the issues you mention. It needs a diagnostic check to locate the cause.

Depending on the wheel package optioned on the car the Mazda3 will come with one of three tyre size, ranging from 205/50 R16, to 205/60-R16, up to 215/45-R18.

Ford changed from the LW model to the LZ in 2015. The LW had a dual-clutch automatic, which was very problematic and should be avoided; the later LZ had a regular automatic transmission and has none of the problems that beset the LW. In short the LZ is worth buying, and can be compared to the Mazda3 and Toyota Corolla for reliability.

Given the CX-8 only arrived on the market in June 2018, it's a bit too early to say conclusively, but the current CX-5 diesel (which shares its mechanicals with the CX-8) seems to be trouble free under these conditions. 

Early versions of the first-generation CX-5 diesel had diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues that caused diesel fuel to leak into the engine oil, but this was fixed with hardware and software upgrades under warranty in 2012. 

Having said that, any car will likely benefit from the odd highway run, but I wouldn't have any concerns about the CX-8 around town. 

I’d be checking the clutch to see if it could be worn out or close to.