It feels like a top-quality product, the only let-down being the hard dashboard material which doesn’t feel in-keeping with the rest of the car. The driver’s seat is electrically adjustable, but the steering wheel only adjusts for height. The influence of Mazda’s sportier models is evident in the design and the materials used throughout the cabin. Rear visibility is pretty good despite the tapering glass area towards the rear thanks to the slim rear pillars.

The CX-7 is roomy enough for five adults and comes with leather seats and electronic climate control as standard, as well as electric windows and cruise control. Mazda CX-7 comfort has proved to be excellent: although the ride is relatively firm in order to minimise body roll in corners it soaks up bumps and potholes well. Both the petrol and diesel engines are quiet too – even when revved hard – and the Mazda makes a surprisingly good motorway cruiser.