REPLACING Australia’s best-selling SUV is no easy task and Mazda knows there is a lot riding on its second-generation CX-5.

The competition in the mid-size segment is more impressive than ever and the likes of heavy hitters such as the Hyundai Tucson, as well as more established models like the Toyota RAV4 and Nissan X-Trail, have put the pressure on Mazda recently.

It is not a ground-up redesign for the new CX-5, but it could be argued that it didn’t need to be. Carryover engines – with light tweaks – and evolutionary styling hide a much improved high-riding wagon.

Has Mazda done enough to keep its crown as the country’s favourite SUV?

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