With its seven-seater versatility, and intelligent packaging, the Mazda5 has been engineered from the ground up to meet the demands of even the most active families. Like its predecessor, launched in 2005, this second generation model competes with cars such as the Ford Grand C-Max, Citroën C4 Grand Picasso and Peugeot 5008.

Mini-van looks ensure that the Mazda5 stands out in the medium-sized MPV crowd and although it lacks the panache and class of some rivals, the 5’s interior feels well-made. There’s lots of adjustment for the seat and steering wheel, so drivers shouldn’t struggle to get comfy either.

Equipment levels are generous and include six airbags, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Traction Control System (TCS), two ISOFIX child seat anchor points, reversing camera, climate control, cruise control, TomTom satellite navigation and six-speaker audio system with USB port. This high-spec Venture also benefits from new sporty Black cloth trim with red stitching and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror.

The Mazda5’s large twin sliding rear doors – a rare feature in this class - offer impressive access in even the tightest spaces and there’s a 130mm foot step and low 439mm step-up into the cabin… perfect for school runs and family outings.

Inside the Mazda5 boasts impressive versatility, too – even though the accommodation is more six-and-a-half, rather than a full seven-seater - as the centre rear seat is only suitable for smaller children. However, the three rows create a wide range of passenger-luggage combinations. The 112-litre loadbay in seven-seat mode can be enlarged to 426-litres in five-seat configuration, while folding all five rear seats flat using Mazda’s unique Karakuri seat-folding system creates a ceiling loadbay of 1485-litres (floor to roof).

The Mazda5 range is available with the choice of two engines: a 115ps 1.6-litre turbo diesel and a 2.0-litre petrol delivering 150ps - tested here.

Utilising the firm’s ‘i-stop’ stop/start system allows this petrol engine to return a combined fuel economy of 40.9mpg with CO2 emissions of 159g/km – respectable enough given the size of vehicle, although some rivals are more frugal.

On-paper performance isn’t anything to write home about with a 0-62mph time of 11 seconds and a 120mph top speed. But if the driver is willing to work the engine, they’re rewarded with decent progress and a sporty soundtrack – which accompanied by impressive agility, good body control, direct steering and slick six-speed manual transmission – makes the Mazda5 surprisingly good fun to drive.

Refinement is perhaps one of the car’s weaker areas, with that vocal engine and noticeable road and wind noise even at moderate speeds. However, comfort is good thanks to supportive seats and a pliant and settled ride.

Lots of windows make for good visibility and combined with the car’s easy controls, results in the 5 being an absolute doddle to drive and park in towns and congested areas.

Verdict:
From some angles it looks a bit quirky, but the Mazda5 combines great all-round family practicality with a sharp and engaging drive.

Tech spec:
Mazda5 2.0 Venture
Price: £19,995
0-62mph 11.0 seconds
Top speed: 120 mph
Power: 150PS  @6200 rpm
Torque: 191Nm @ 4500 rpm
Claimed economy: 40.9 mpg (combined)
CO2 159g/km
Insurance group: 16E