The Mazda5 is now available with a new SkyActiv engine in Malaysia, which makes it the fifth model - after the 3, 6, Biante and CX-5 - to get the new technology in that market.

Replacing the non-SkyActiv model's 142 hp/180 Nm 2.0 litre MZR four-cylinder engine and five-speed Activematic auto are a 149 hp/190 Nm 2.0 litre SkyActiv direct-injected four-cylinder engine (12:1 compression ratio) and a six-speed SkyActiv auto.

It also gains the i-stop start/stop system, allowing the vehicle to claim a combined EC fuel economy of 6.6 litres per 100 km. It does the century sprint in 11.4 seconds before reaching a 194 km/h top speed.

On the outside, it looks pretty much identical to the non-SkyActiv Mazda5 - even the 205/55 R16 alloys are carried over - but there are subtle differences such as the wing mirror indicators, central screen and two headrest monitors, which were not on the original car that was launched back in 2011. Mazda Malaysia says these were quietly introduced to the Mazda5 sometime in between.

The central screen incorporates navigation, a reverse camera as well as CD, DVD, MP3, AUX and USB sound piped through four speakers. Kit-wise, you get auto headlamps and wipers, single-zone auto air-con (with blower control for second-row vents), a sunroof and dual-powered sliding doors, amongst others.

There's still the unique Karakuri seventh seat in the middle of the second row - the second-row armrest first folds up to form the backrest, then the cushion of the seat on the left is flipped forward to reveal the centre seat cushion that folds out to fit between the two second-row seats.

The right-second-row seat hides a tray with two cupholders and a storage net under its cushion - this can obviously be deployed for use. Under the flip-up cushions of both second row seats are 6.3-litre storage compartments (when they're not full of seat or tray, obviously). Third row seats are split 50:50.

Where safety is concerned, you get dual front airbags, ABS, EBD, BA, DSC, TCS, reverse sensors and second-row Isofix. Aluminium, Jet Black, Crystal Pearl White and Metallic Grey body colours are available.

Fully imported (CBU) from Japan, the Mazda5 SkyActiv is priced at RM 153,019 (US$ 47,600), OTR without insurance (or RM 157,279 with insurance). Included is a three-year/100,000 km warranty and three years' free maintenance.

Incidentally, at its launch in 2011, the non-SkyActiv Mazda5 was priced at RM 150,000, OTR without insurance.