Mazda’s third SUV has slotted into the range between the CX-3 and CX-5.

You might think it would be called the CX-4, but that name was already taken by a separate Mazda model in China, so the new addition takes the name CX-30 instead.

The Japanese manufacturer’s new contender shares a good amount of its engineering with the Mazda 3 hatch, wrapped in the type of SUV body styling that catches the eye of family buyers.

And it’s the second model in the range to feature the Skyactiv-X engine – a clever new combustion petrol unit designed to achieve outstanding environmental performance while still offering impressive power.

Those who liked the Mazda 3, but perhaps wanted more room in the back, may well be attracted to the CX-30 which, in many ways, is its SUV sibling.

In terms of looks, the CX-30 is an aesthetically-pleasing machine that combines the bold stance of an SUV with the sleek profile of a coupe.

Its styling is the latest evolution of Mazda’s ‘Kodo’ design philosophy - something that has given Mazdas an instantly-recognisable look over recent years. On the CX-30, it manifests itself with a beefy heavily-sculpted bonnet, and a strongly-defined crease along the side of the vehicle which catches and deflects the light to create an impressive two-tone effect.

The front end is characterised by a large dominant grille and narrow, contemporary headlights. There’s no doubt that its clean exterior lines are distinctive in a sector that’s rather crowded.

As with the Mazda3, the CX-30 comes with a choice of two engines - the 122ps 2.0-litre Skyactiv-G engine and the 180ps 2.0 Skyactiv-X petrol engine, tested here. Both are offered across all grades with a choice of transmission.

This Skyactiv-X powerplant is able to change from compression ignition, which best suits day-to-day driving, to a form of spark ignition, usually when the engine is started from cold or the driver wants more power at higher revs. As you climb the trim trail, the more powerful CX-30 is available with Mazda’s latest i-Activ all-wheel drive system.

With 180PS on offer, the four-cylinder unit propels the car from 0-62mph in 8.5 seconds and feels pretty swift for a vehicle of this size.

To achieve that performance, you’ll have to really push your way through the six-speed manual box, but the shift is slick enough to mean it’s no chore.

The handling is trustworthy, with accurate steering and minimal body roll to be aware of.

Once inside, you’re greeted by an impressive interior.

The dashboard design is familiar from the Mazda 3 and forms part of a nicely-crafted and finished cabin.

The layout is minimalist and uncluttered, but all the buttons you do need are well-laid out and within easy reach.

A digital instrument cluster display includes an 8.8-inch screen on top of the dashboard, which is clear and easy to use.

In terms of space, there’s more room in the rear seats than you’d find in the Mazda 3 - but not as much as you get from some of its rivals in this class. The 430-litre boot is also a significant improvement on the Mazda 3, a substantial 135-litres bigger.

In conclusion, the CX-30 is an excellent all-round machine, with a frugal yet potent engine, appealing and dynamic looks, and a well put-together cabin.

It;s also really good to drive and feels expensive.

If you don't go in for badge snobbery, then the Mazda CX-30 can be viewed as a genuine equal to many premium compact SUVs. Possible drawbacks include interior space. There's plenty of it, to be fair, but not quite as much as in other vehicles.

Meanwhile, choice is pretty limited when it comes to engine availability although, once you've tried the 2.0-litre Skyactiv-X, you're unlikely to want anything else.

Mazda CX-30 2.0 180ps 2WD GT Sport

PRICE: £28,875 on the road

ENGINE: 1998cc, four-cylinder, four-valve 180PS petrol

TRANSMISSION: Six-speed manual, front -wheel drive

EMISSIONS: 105g/km

PERFORMANCE: 0-62mph in 8.5 seconds and top speed of 127mph