JAPANESE cars have a reputation for being reliable and giving you more for your money — but people often overlook fun!

Mazda’s second generation CX-5 offers all of that. It has a striking new look which gets people noticing it. I felt at home the moment I slipped into the 2.2D 150ps 2WD Sport Nav. It was very comfortable, the array of dials, screens and toys seemed instantly logical, and the first time I set off, it was as if I had been driving it for years.

The elevated driving position gives a good view of the surroundings and you feel safe on the road. The leather seats and interior look modern and sleek and are also comfortable and practical, with a range of USB and 12V chargers and connectors available in the centre console and rear armrest — something that will help keep children occupied on long journeys.

Connecting to the built-in Bluetooth system for smartphones and entertainment is simple and easy to control both from the steering wheel and centre console, making it wash to multi-task without taking your eyes off the road.

There is plenty of space throughout the cabin — with the driver’s seat in my normal driving position, I sat behind it and still had plenty of leg room.

The boot has a handy remote opening and closing, with a safety alarm to warn those nearby. There is plenty of room in the boot which is at the ideal level so you don’t have to bend and stretch to reach the shopping.

The stylish new CX-5 is practical and comfortable, whether you are on your own or fully loaded with the family, and it gained many approving nods and compliments.

But it also packs a punch. You do not notice the powerful diesel which makes less noise than some petrol engines and many diesels.

But put your foot down, and you could be in a sports car. Whether it is nipping through traffic or accelerating to join a motorway, the speed limit is reached effortlessly and smoothly, achieving 70mph at about 2,000 rpm. But it could effortlessly do more.

Prices for the CX-5 start at £23,695, with the top-of-the range coming in at £33,195.

There two trim levels — SE-L Nav and Sport Nav — are available with a range of engines, including the 2.0 165ps petrol and 2.2 diesels offering 150ps and 175ps and with manual and automatic transmissions.

Every car I have driven has had something I have had to get used to. Until now. The CX-5 let me drive it the way I wanted to. My next trip, albeit not in the CX-5, will be to Mazda to get one. I absolutely love this car!