SINCE the second-gen Mazda CX-9 redefined the large SUV just over two years ago, it left most rivals scrambling, and some, like the previous Hyundai Santa Fe, floundering in comparison. 

 

Now the mostly all-new fourth-gen TM-series is here, rising to the challenge with upgrades across the vehicle. 

 

Whether it’s enough to unseat the leading Japanese contender remains to be seen, however. 

 

Here we take a long hard look at the mid-range Elite AWD turbo-diesel.