Three rows, full-time AWD, and a badge that punches well above its price, the Mazda CX-8 is one of the market's best-kept secrets, and this Executive Package example makes the case immediately. Wrapped in gloss black with chrome window surrounds and a subtly illuminated rear light bar, it has genuine road presence without tipping into flashy.

Open a door and the Executive trim shows its hand. Cream leather runs through all three rows, still holding its shape and colour, paired with heated front and rear seats and dual-zone climate that syncs front to back at the press of a button, a rare touch in this segment. Fold the third row flat and the cargo bay opens into a wide, genuinely usable space, load a week's shopping or a set of golf bags without a second thought.

The instrument cluster keeps things classic and legible, analogue dials either side of a crisp digital display, showing exactly what a driver needs and nothing they don't. At just over 52,000 kilometres, this CX-8 has plenty of runway left, backed by the 2.5L naturally aspirated petrol engine and Mazda's proven AWD system, power sent smoothly to all four wheels when the road (or the weather) calls for it.

Families cross-shopping this against the usual seven-seat suspects tend to come away surprised, more premium materials, better driving dynamics, and a badge that still turns heads. This one won't sit around waiting for a second look.