The Mazda CX-7’s 18-inch alloys have looked good from day one, but having now washed the car several times, it’s only now I’m appreciating how easy they are to clean. There are no tight spaces for brake-dust to build up, which means a quick wipe with a sponge brings the alloys back to as-new condition.

I’ve also been impressed at how resistant to kerbing the CX-7 has been. After a recent parallel parking failure where I could have sworn I’d damaged a wheel, I was amazed to see both it and the high-profile tyre unscathed. It’s not something I’ll be relying on, but it’s reassuring to know.

Mazda CX-7 2.2 diesel 5dr manual
Mileage 7429
Claimed combined
consumption
37.7mpg
Our average
consumption
34.8mpg
P11D price £26,515
Model price range £26,515
CO2 (tax) 199g/km (31%)
BIK 20/40% per month £136/£273
Service interval 12,500mls
Insurance group 32
Warranty 3yrs/unltd mls
Boot space (min/max) 455/1348 litres
Engine size/power 2184cc/173hp
Top speed/0-62mph 124mph/11.3secs
Why we’re running it Revised CX-7 now (only)
has a diesel variant
Positive Ride comfort, interior
space, Bluetooth
Negative Satnav foibles, A-pillar size