A COMPARATIVE newcomer to the latest cross-over sector, the Mazda CX-3 brings a big range with some simple choices.

There are 18 models in five trim levels using 105ps 1.5 diesel or 120ps 2.0 petrol engines with two or four wheel drive.

Sometimes, simplicity really is best and in the case of the CX-3 it really is very good.

Announced in 2014 in the USA and sold in the UK since summer 2015, the CX-3 is still building up a presence in the market where appearance can be more important than ability, but the Mazda has a both.

If you don't need all-wheel-drive, the two-wheel-drive with 120ps petrol engine and in top specification Sport Nav trim is highly desirable.

Sport Nav includes gunmetal finished wheels, LED adaptive headlights and reversing camera, half-leather trim, keyless entry and head-up display and upgdraded navigation and sound system.

The very well designed and engineered SKYACTIV petrol engine is one of the few I have experienced which actually gets very close to the official combined consumption figure of 48mpg with an effortless 44mpg on my drive..

A stop/start system switches off and on in slow moving traffic, it has long sixth gearing for economical and relaxed motorway work and its light, which not only helps economy but also contributes to agility on twisting roads.

The turning circle's good, steering well weighted and feelsome and the brakes underfoot slowed and stopped it easily and undramatically.

It pulls well if a little noisily at higher revs, but the gearchange is slick, the clutch nicely balanced for weight and progression and the suspension coped well with all manner of surfaces.

Ride was very slightly on the firm side but always comfortable and it handled without drama or unwelcome characteristics such as running wide or sliding around.

Access was very good through doors or the loadbed and the capacity of the luggage area went from a nominal 350 to 1,260 litres with a small sill over which to lift items and back seats which quickly dropped or folded.

Inside, the part leather trim exuded quality, the seats were sensibly shaped to locate occupants and the visibility was good to front and sides but you really need the reversing camera with the high tail and slim back window creating a significant blind spot.

Under acceleration the engine note became much more noticeable but generally it was quiet and composed at the motorway limit. Road rumbles could be heard but they were muffled as well and wind noise was low.

The Sport Nav specification is good for what you pay, the interior design is stylish and it exudes a quality feel you might expect on much more expensive cars.

Secondary controls were nicely grouped and placed, the instruments well placed and sized and the heating and ventilation was straightforward and effective.