Mazda5 safety has been improved compared to the previous model thanks to a more rigid body and improved side impact bars. These help it achieve a five-star EuroNCAP crash test rating.As well as these improvements it gets six airbags as standard, stability control and two ISOFIX anchor points. It also comes with a Thatcham Category 1 anti-theft alarm and engine immobiliser

Like most of its rivals, the new model gets rear sliding doors which means Mazda5 practicality is excellent.

Despite becoming the norm on these cars, it doesn’t mean it is any less useful.

First off, it makes it easier for people to get in and stops you damaging adjacent vehicles in car parks. Electrically operated doors on the Sport model also have a sensor to stop the door closing on a child’s hand and will beep if left open when you drive off.

In terms of boot space the 5 is an average performer. With all seats in place there are 112 litres on offer, enough for a couple of suitcases or a pushchair. Fold the two rear seats down and this space expands to 426 litres. With all five rear seats folded down there’s 1,566 litres of space to use.