So pardon our sigh of disappointment when Mazda launched the new CX-5 SUV, which it says, is built with the full suite of their revolutionary SkyActiv range of fuel saving technologies.
From the spec-sheet there isn't anything that immediately stands out as revolutionary. Its engine is still naturally aspirated, transmission is still an automatic, and body is still made from steel.
It is also the first model to adopt Mazda's new ìKodoî design language, which looks bolder, but its proportions looks less balanced than those drawn up from the previous ìNagareî designs.
Nothing remarkable about the interior, though quality is top notch and it comes well equipped with front seat warmers, dual-zone climate control, reverse camera, Bose sound system, and a navigation system courtesy of TomTom.
Pause and look closely at Mazda's explanation of SkyActiv technologies and you would find that the engine's components has been entirely revised to allow it to run at a compression ratio of 13:1, which is rated as the world's highest ratio for a mass-production model.
Despite the high compression, the engine has a minimum octane rating of RON95, thanks to ingenious engineering designs to reduce residual heat in the engine.
Furthermore the engine is 10 per cent lighter with 30 per cent less mechanical friction.
In practice the engine feels like any other engine, not remarkable, just smooth and refined with the naturally aspirated power delivery where pace is built gradually rather than effortlessly.
Our test unit's trip computer logged a fuel consumption figure of 10.6l/100km, figures that are only seen from the on-board computers of smaller family cars, never in any other SUV that we have tested.
Where the biggest difference in the CX-5 is felt is to be found with the transmission.
Taking off from a standstill its automatic transmission feels like very much like any other automatic with its creep. However, once the car is on the move, the transmission has a very direct ìmanual transmissionî like feel thanks to its larger lock-up range.
Shifts are quick, with little or no discernable interruption in power delivery, and free from any shock when downshifting.
Lift the accelerator pedal and the transmission's clever computers will free wheel the car rather than letting it be bogged down by a cog.
Not as fun as a manual, by our own stubborn opinion, but definitely one of the best self-shifters that isn't a dual-clutch.
It is good news too in the CX-5's ride and handling department.
Despite being a tall riding SUV, the CX-5 feels very car-like in its manners, it feels light on its feet, corners with sublime ease and minimal body roll, and a has very well behaved nature.
Part of its handling finesse is also thanks to its new body structure which is 30 per cent more rigid and eight per cent lighter than before, as well as lightened suspension components which shed another 14 per cent of weight over a conventional system.
Behind the wheel the CX-5's steering and controls has just the right chunky weight and feel, giving it a solid impression and making even the shortest journeys a small indulgence.
For something that rides on massive 19-inch rims, the CX-5 glides remarkably well over rutted surfaces, yet it feels planted solidly to the road.
The CX-5 doesn't do with big shouty numbers to impress, but there is something charming about the way the CX-5 carries itself.
We cannot explain it or put our finger on it, but after a long drive the CX-5 has a soothing yet youthful nature, something rare on this end of the SUV market.
It is amazing that despite all the engineering fine-tuning it has under the skin, Mazda zengineers have taken time to engineer in that rare quality of character and fun.
And we congratulate Mazda for that.
Specifications of the Mazda CX-5 2WD
Engine: 1,997cc four-cylinder direct-injection
Max power: 153hp/114kW @ 6,000rpm
Max torque: 200Nm @ 4,000rpm
Transmission: Six-speed automatic, front-wheel drive
Safety Features: Six airbags, ABS with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist, dynamic stability control (DSC), traction control system (TCS), tyre pressure monitor, ISOFIX child seat anchor points
Price: RM159,500 OTR with insurance
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