Faults:

Rear brake caliper siezed, replaced free of charge as this is a known design fault.

General Comments:

Beautiful retro "junior Jaguar" styling which refuses to look dated, complemented by superb fit and finish of all the exterior parts.

Tremendous high tech V6 engine pulls like a train from 2500 RPM and makes all the right noises without being intrusive in the cabin. These engines are also virtually bombproof, featuring a proper steel crankshaft and a split crank case design rather than flimsy conventional mains caps.

Performance is excellent, 60mph coming up in a shade over 8 seconds up to a 137mph maximum. Handling is generally good, although these cars do benefit from lowered sports springs.

Economy is above average for a performance car, 34mpg is not unrealistic on a long run, 27mpg is usual around the town.

Boot lid is on the small side, hampering access to what is in fact a generous luggage compartment. The passenger compartment is a little cramped, although in this respect it is no worse than a 3 series BMW.

Faults:

The driver's side electric window now shudders when lowering. Mazda dealers say it's a motor beginning to fail, however they say the whole window regulator needs to be replaced at a cost of £300 approx.

The automatic transaxle (gearbox) has broken at 101,000 miles. No Mazda dealer in the republic will touch it - they no nothing about automatics. I have taken it to a specialist who will rapair and refit, or replace, at a total cost of £1,500.00.

General Comments:

DRIVING: Quite powerful, great acceleration, sticks to the road yet the suspension absorbs bumps quite easily making it very comfortable on long journeys.

LOOKS: Sleek and understated. Doesn't seem to have aged compared to similar year Mercedes' and BMW+'s. Could be a classic if it lives.

EQUIPMENT: Electric windows & sunroof, central locking, ABS, leather seats, first aid & tool kits, alloy wheels (including full-size spare alloy).

COMFORT: Extremely comfortable, however if you are six foot or higher, headroom is reduced by the sunroof and is quite tight. Rear legroom with the front seat pulled fully back is also quite tight.

DEALERS: I'd hate to have paid £25,000 for new one only to be shunned by dealers who know nothing about automatics.

Faults:

New ignition leads fitted to correct an intermittent misfire.

Power operated radio aerial renewed.

Iffy courtesy light.

General Comments:

An attractive, comfortable car with a melodious six-cylinder engine and good performance.

Pleasant, well-finished interior with comfortable seats. Styling both inside and out is elegant.

Rearward visibility when parking is not very good.

Fuel economy is acceptable without being remarkable.

Insurance is on the high side in GB.