AS with most fashions, there are car designs that survive the test of time - and less fortunate ones that start to age the moment they leave the showroom.

One of the more successful shapes is that of the Mazda CX-5 - smooth, rounded and unusually elegant for a tall SUV.

That's no doubt why the design team at Mazda used the10-year-old CX-5 shape as a sort of template when introducing its big brother, the CX-60. Larger, more powerful and with greater luxury, it is immediately recognisable as being from the same family.

Available as a diesel and a plug-in petrol, it was the oil burner we opted to review - a popular choice with those who tow a boat or a caravan, as well as drivers with economy as a priority.

A 3.3litre turbo diesel may sound like an echo from the past, but this engine with its huge torque and creamy flow of power more than suits the job of doubling up as a beast of burden and luxury motorway express.

It's generally pleasantly refined with a distant gruffness from the straight six-cylinder. When cold it's a tad more audible, but soon settles down. The benefit comes with a stab of the throttle and the five-seater springs vigorously into life to provide brisk performance.

With 251bhp on tap from the mild hybrid, acceleration is lively - 62mph comes up in around seven seconds and mid-range pull is equally impressive via the eight- speed automatic gearbox.

In spite of free-flowing power, economy is impressive. We regularly squeezed 40 miles from a gallon and the overall figure of 37mpg is noticeably better than achieved by most rivals.

Sporty handling isn't normally a quality possessed by large SUVs but the CX-60 has an athleticism that will satisfy most keen drivers. It sits squat and purposefully on the road and takes bends with confidence and very little roll. Occasionally, rippled or rutted road surfaces will throw it off line, but generally the ride is smooth and composed.

The generously sized cabin is richly furnished with leather seating, high-grade plastic mouldings and easy-to-use controls.

A large rectangular touchscreen is set centrally above the dash and centre console. Deep, wide door bins and a covered box between driver and passenger provide ample stowage space.

The rear boot, which holds a generous 570litres of luggage, is accessed by electric opening tailgate. The sloping rear-quarters somewhat restricts carrying capacity but the luggage platform is low enough for easy loading and is regularly shaped. The rear seats split and fold to increase carrying capacity.

Although the CX-60 is strictly a five-seater without a final row of seats, the longer CX-80 model is available for those who require extra passenger space.

Plenty of standard kit on board the Homura version including, electric control seating, surround view parking camera, electric tailgate, Nappa leather seating and heated steering wheel. It all adds up to a premium product.

One minor criticism is the remote key fob on which the important opening and closing buttons are too small.