• Summary

    3 out of 5 3.0

    What does this car say about you?

    Practical but enjoys a good drive.

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    Everyone likes the sliding doors. Good height for getting into. Everyone thinks mistakenly the Mazda badge is a sign of durability and reliability - yet to find that.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    No. Too high a cost incurred through necessary and unnecessary repairs. Dealer is Arnold Clark who're as pleasant to deal with as a roasted cactus.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Either Subaru Legacy/Outback or return to the Ford Mondeo.

  • Buying experience

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Independent

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £7,000

    When did you buy the car?

    April 2014

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Reasonable price for the car at the time.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Wanted to upgrade to something taller and baby friendly - sliding doors were a big plus.

    What was the dealer like?

    Arnold Clark. I probably don't need to say more.

  • Driving it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Fine to drive. Great torque delivery so fine for overtaking/motorway running. Great response in steering. Sometimes feels the accelerator is not totally connected though - drive by wire getting in the way of a great experience. Good road-holding and well balanced ride.

    What's it like to park?

    Parks just like a focus.

  • Living with it

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Engine started over-revving as if going to Runaway. Dealer said engine was designed to let diesel into oil system. Mazda customer service has confirmed. 6mts later, engine error code locked out turbo but cleared before the garage picked it up. Fairly high tyre wear but very torquey engine so makes sense.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Sliding doors are excellent. 6+1 configuration is very versatile and the rear row seats are big enough for a couple of adults.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    TS2 trim so no real gadgets.