Weekend plans that involve unsealed roads, steep driveways, and a boot full of camping gear usually start with a compromise — but this 2012 Mazda CX-5 Maxx in AWD is the one that hands you the keys without the usual SUV tax.

The 2.0-litre SKYACTIV-G petrol paired with the six-speed SKYACTIV-Drive auto is quietly brilliant around Melbourne. Real-world economy genuinely surprises, the shifts are unfussy, and the all-wheel-drive system does its thing in the background whenever the road loses faith in itself.

Step inside and the cabin reminds you that Mazda was already sweating the details a decade ago. Clean dash layout, supportive front seats, genuinely roomy back row for the body size, and a cargo area that swallows prams, golf bags, or a weekend's worth of Aldi specials without complaint.

At 130,000 km this CX-5 is well run in, not tired — the KE generation earned a reputation for stubbornness in the best way, and Mazda parts and servicing in Melbourne stay affordable for years yet. The silver exterior hides road grime and looks sharp under any lighting, Melbourne winter included.

KE1071 MAXX sits at the start of the CX-5 ladder, which means simple controls, bulletproof mechanicals, and none of the overcomplicated kit that ages badly in an older SUV. Exactly what you want in a daily that needs to just work.

$14,500 gets you into a genuine all-wheel-drive mid-size SUV that's easy to park around Nunawading, sensible on fuel, and more than capable of the family holiday handoff when that's required. There's not a lot else in this price bracket that covers this much brief.

Fair warning — once you've had a CX-5 in the driveway, every other compact SUV feels like it's doing the same job but charging you extra for worse music taste.

All prices displayed exclude government charges. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information provided, MM Carz recommends you confirm with one of our consultants to confirm specific specifications/features about the car. Please also note our vehicles may not always be on display, as they may be in for detailing—please contact us in advance to confirm availability before visiting our showroom.