Personalities are hard to tame. They’re evident in the watch we wear, the clothes we choose and the car we drive. It’s trademark, a badge of honor and in some cases, a glimpse into one’s wild side, even in the most formal of occasions.

Car makes, like people, have personalities too. Some have tried to distill theirs to appeal to a broader audience. Some, thankfully, choose to rebel.

In Mazda’s case, it’s a good thing. Their latest SUV, the CX-7, eschews any pretensions of luxury or off-road ability. Even from a distance, you can tell it’s a zoomer. After all, it’s what they do best.

Mazda, after all, is known for its sports cars. And in case you didn’t know that, the CX-7 will remind you.

Drawing on Mazda's sporting heritage, the CX-7 takes cues from the RX-8 sports car, raises the ground clearance and makes room for 5. The ‘borrows’ are everywhere from aerodynamic fenders to the hawk-eye headlamps, steeply raked windshields to gaping lower grilles.

The only clue it’s an SUV are the four doors and hatch rear, still sportily executed, considering.
It continues inside with a black monochromatic color scheme. Circular vents and silver accents are a design motif pulled from the Miata. There are also three dials that indicate revs, speed and fuel and temperature.

Needles start at six o’ clock and light up in with red and blue. The steering wheel is speed sensing and adjusts its ratio depending on the speed and input.

It’s a complicated machine too, and makes no bones about it. The driver seat is power adjustable. In the instrument cluster sits a digital odometer and info display. On the wheel are stereo, cruise and multifunction controls. On the center stack sit two screens. Fuel efficiency and trip info are displayed on the left.

On the right, are audio and climate details. Three air con vents mark a refreshing change to convention. Just below them is the integrated entertainment. Buttons are lined neatly with remotes on the wheel.

The stereo plays 6-CDs in dash, is multi format and sounds through six speakers. Under that is climate control. It can be left on full auto or adjusted manually to comfort.

It may seem snug, initially, but all the space has been put to good use. In the center divider is a massive storage area. Trays can be moved or removed for more space. Hiding beneath is a power unit and the auxiliary jack for the stereo.

Behind, door handles in the cargo area bring the second row seats down in a snap. The spare and tools are hidden beneath the cargo floor. A retractable cargo shade to protects cargo from the sun’s heat.

The sports car style and family van savvy is pulled along by a 2.5 liter inline 4 engine. The DOHC power plant makes 163 hp and 151 ft-lb of torque to drive the front wheels. The automatic will smoothly shift through all of five gears or drivers can take control with its manual mode.

Excellent insulation make it a quiet ride. MacPherson struts in front and a multi-link independent system make it comfy. And to protect the passengers, there’s a whole complement of safety systems onboard.

Brakes are controlled by ABS and EBD with Brake Assist. Traction and Stability control are also fitted as standard. All occupants are fitted with 3-point belts. And if that weren’t enough, up to six airbags can inflate in the worst case scenario.

Of course, all that sport is not just for show. The CX-7 is based on the Mazda 6, and is equipped with the same great suspension and engine package. For a tall and long car, it holds the road well, taking on tight turns with ease.

Power is adequate whether for overtaking or just blasting on the highway. And best of all, passenger will hardly notice just how much fun the driver is having. Four-wheel drive might be absent in this car, but the clearance is enough for most situations and with its sporty take, there hardly seems a need for it.

Great style, progressive features and comfort abound in this vehicle. Many of its competitors will easily have more off-road ability and cargo. But none of them are as comfortable or sexy as this, in the price range.

It’s really all about personality and in a segment filled with brawny and bulky options, the CX-7’s sophisticated, rebellious and sporty allure stands out all the more.

Price: PhP 1,495,000
Engine: 2.5 liter DOHC 4 cylinder
Drivetrain: front-wheel drive
Max Power: 163 hp @ 6000 rpm / 151 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed M/T
Seating: 5 passengers
Brakes: All four discs
Suspension: Independent MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear
Wheels & Tire: 17 inch on 215/70 tires