If you're looking to buy now, I'd say get the Forester XT. They just came out with the "Sport" model a few months ago. Check out
www.cars101.com for prices.
I think the CX-7 is still in it's "first batch," so I'd be wary right now for first year cars. I've owned a Mazda before, a Protege5, and was very happy with it until I traded it in for my WRX wagon. The only reason really was for the power.
You won't be disappointed with the Forester or CX-7. I would seriously consider the Rav4 V-6. IMO, that is not a girly car. Great car, price, power and you have nothing to worry about Toyota's reliability and resale.