Here's what I don't get, Unob. You obviously have a good job, should be making decent money. You seem to often have to commute long hours to work. I know you have other priorities for your money. But if I had to spend 8 hours a day working, and two or four hours driving to and fro, I'd damn sure want a good ride. Not one that I resent for being what it is. Not one whose shortcomings annoy me. I'd get one that I enjoyed being in, enjoyed driving, one that I really like. It's not worth the aggravation, it's only money, life's too short, etc.
And waiting for your perfect compromise will be an exercise in frustration, because it will always be a compromise. Keep the CX-5 for your "appliance", and get a "car" you like.
Treat yourself, man, you're worth it. And quit your bitchin'. (2cents)