Mazda Problems

The tare mass of the V6 model is 1527kg; the four-cylinder model is 1434kg, which might help explain the discrepancy.

You've singled out two of the best in the class. Others to consider are the Mazda CX-9 and the Toyota Kluger, but it's hard to go past the Sorento and Santa Fe. Comparison information is available if you click on car reviews and go to the models you are interested in.

There's little between the Sorento and Santa Fe, both are very good cars, the CX-9 is also a good choice. I couldn't choose between the Sorento and the Santa Fe, either one would be a good option, but the CX-9 could be the best for your needs as it's a little roomier inside.

The Discovery 4 is highly regarded by owners. It’s a very capable off-roader, comfortable and refined on the road, and there are few issues to worry about. Service costs are high if you use a factory dealer, but there are plenty of independent mechanics able to take care of it for you. When checking a Discovery check for use off-road, and look for one that has been pampered within the town boundaries. If you don’t want a car that will go off-road perhaps look at a Toyota Kluger 7-seater or a Mazda CX-9.

You need to decide on whether you want an SUV or a hatch before you do anything else. The SUV gives you a better view of the road, is practical, and the CX-3 is a good choice, but hatches can also be attractive. I would rule out the Mazda2 in your case, as it would seem to be too small for your needs, but the 3, Corolla and i30 are all good cars that would deliver on the things you want.

The MX-5 is a great little sports car for someone looking for some fun on the road.

The earliest ones are getting a little long in the tooth and are looking a little tired.

Go for an NC model, that's from 2005-on, and you shouldn't go wrong. They're reliable, user-friendly, they look good, and they're great fun to drive.

Look for a low-mileage example and avoid any that look like they might have been used in competition.

All of the cars you name meet your criteria of size, economy, performance and handling.

You could also add the Mazda3 and 6 to the list.

Of all of those I would nominate the Camry as the great all-rounder.

The Trax is good value for money and stacks up well against all comers in the class. The 1.4 turbo is the best engine, and it has a conventional auto instead of a CVT that most of its rivals have. Others to look at are the Suzuki S-Cross, Ford Kuga, Nissan Qashqai, Mazda CX-5 and Subaru XV.