The price premium for diesel (£1,600) is pretty hefty and fuel consumption is quite a bit lower than the best diesels in its class. A similarly powered Renault Grand Scenic 1.9 dCi 120 offers 49mpg on the combined cycle against 45mpg for the Mazda, although the petrol models are in line with the class average. This was put right in January 2008, when fuel consumption across the range was brought closer in line with rivals.

The 5 is relatively green and easy on the environment. With an average of 185g/km CO2 across the model line-up, its emissions are fairly standard for a people carrier. The 2.0-litre diesel (both versions) is the cleanest engine – it emits 159g/km of CO2 and averages 46mpg.

Mazdas are usually very reliable and we have no reason to doubt the 5 won’t continue the tradition. There are no complicated gadgets like keyless ignition or tyre-pressure sensors that might play up after a few thousand miles.