SOKU RED. That's the shade Mazda calls it, and once you see this CX-5 catching light in person, no other name would do it justice. It ripples and deepens depending on the angle, part wine, part fire, wrapped around every curve of the second generation Kodo bodywork. Black roof rails, gunmetal alloys, and smoked tail lamps keep the whole package looking sharp rather than flashy, proof and reminder that bold and tasteful can absolutely coexist in the same vehicle.

Under the hood sits Mazda's 2.0 litre SKYACTIV petrol engine, the naturally aspirated choice for buyers who want smooth, predictable power without turbo lag or the extra maintenance that comes with it. It is the kind of engine built to be driven daily for years without drama, and at 73,524 kilometers, this one is just settling into its stride.

A few details worth pointing out. The tailgate is powered, opening and closing at the touch of a button, which matters more than people expect once they are juggling groceries or luggage. Inside, the black leather cabin carries Mazda's usual restrained elegance, with the three ring gauge cluster still looking as premium today as the day it left the factory, and steering wheel controls that keep everything within thumb's reach.

Red exterior, black leather interior, 2.0 litre petrol engine, power tailgate, 2019 model year. This is a CX-5 for someone who wants their SUV to actually stand out in a parking lot full of grey and white.