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Rating

Verdict Go on, drive against the dying of the light

Yes, when all is said and done, cars like the Mazda CX-7 are mini-MPVs. But the inherent practicality is garnished with a bit of zest, some chunky tyres and a dollop of four-wheel drive. They are, if you like, Doc Martens zip-up slippers.

The only engine on offer is a four-pot 2.3, which, thanks to the fitting of what feels a large and muscular turbocharger, develops a considerable 256bhp. That means 0-62mph is dealt with in an astonishing 8sec, and the top speed 130. This, then, is not a Doc Martens zip-up slipper. It’s a full-on Nike Air slipper.

There are some problems, though. Because it is a high riding, chunky-tyred 4x4, it doesn’t ride as smoothly as a normal car. Nor is it very spacious in the back. But the fact is this: you can’t have the style and the high driving position without these drawbacks.

Of course, you can get round all of this with a sensible diesel-powered Renault Mégane. Plus, if you go down this road, it’ll prepare you nicely for the day when you turn grey and a kindly nurse sticks a tube full of MRSA up your left nostril.

Me? Well, since I believe you should live life and not spend half of it in church, preparing for death, I’d take the Mazda, warts and all, every time.

Current price £23,960

Price when tested (Dec 2007) £23,960

Engine 2261cc, four cylinders

Power 256bhp @ 5500rpm

Torque 280 lb ft @ 3000rpm

Transmission Six-speed manual

Fuel/ 27.7mpg (combined) / 243g/km

0-62mph 8.0sec

Top speed 130mph