MAZDA CX-5 vs. Subaru Forester

Your SUV Is Ready to Shine

The Mazda CX-5 and the Subaru Forester strike the perfect balance between a comfortable cruiser and an exciting expedition. Both SUVs come standard with a 2.5L engine, but that doesn’t mean they produce the same performance output.

The more potent capabilities of the Mazda CX-5 mean quicker acceleration, faster throttle response, and an overall peppier ride.

But that's only part of what the Mazda CX-5 offers in terms of performance. It features an automatic transmission with standard manual shift mode to manually adjust transmission gears for a more engaged ride. The Subaru Forester offers an available manual mode on upper trims only.

Embark on an Adventure

There's nothing quite like unplugging and embracing Mother Nature. Thanks to their standard all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, the Mazda CX-5 and the Subaru Forester help you reach remote trailheads and secluded boat ramps. You'll experience enhanced traction on low-friction surfaces and feel more confident when traversing muddy paths or rocky roads.

Either SUV also comes with a selectable mode that helps enhance the AWD capabilities, further assisting you with your adventures. Meanwhile, only the Mazda CX-5 includes Hill Launch Assist to prevent rollback from a stationary position on a hill. The Subaru Forester lacks a similar feature.

The Best of Both Worlds

No two vehicles are identical; the Mazda CX-5 and the Subaru Forester exemplify this. Each SUV takes a different approach to design, allowing you to choose the model that best matches your aesthetic.

The Forester's wide stance, angular profile, and various nature-inspired color options make it rugged in design. Thanks to its KODO: “Soul of Motion” design philosophy, the Mazda CX-5’s elongated, sweeping hood and sturdy stance combine with angular LED headlights and signature wing to give the Mazda CX-5 an elegant edge. This is enhanced with available dazzling exterior features like Gloss Black exterior accents.

Everyday Comfort

The Mazda CX-5 and the Subaru Forester were uniquely designed to make your drive more comfortable. Inside either SUV, you’ll find a sophisticated cabin draped in either cloth, leatherette, or available leather upholstery. Both also offer optional 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seats with 2-position memory and available heated front seats.

For the most opulent interior, the Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium and 2.5 S Premium Plus trim levels include:

• 3-level adjustment ventilated front seats
• 3-level adjustment heated rear seats

The Subaru Forester, on the other hand, only introduces ventilated front seats and heated rear seats on its highest trim level.

A Modern Driver’s Dream

Your favorite songs, podcasts, and audiobooks are always within reach when you drive the Mazda CX-5 or the Subaru Forester since they come standard with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration. Once synced to your SUV, your smartphone will be mirrored onto the central touchscreen display, providing convenient and intuitive access to your entertainment features.

Unfortunately for Forester drivers, the Mazda CX-5 includes additional features that outshine the Subaru from the start.

With its larger touchscreen, twice as many standard speakers, and included Google built-in, the Mazda CX-5 not only makes entertainment more immersive but also keeps you connected and in control, making every drive more enjoyable than in the Forester.

Safety in Numbers

The Mazda CX-5 and the Subaru Forester each come with a standard, advanced safety suite that uses sophisticated monitoring technology to provide alerts and, when conditions are met, make mild adjustments to speed and/or steering.

While these SUVs share a few features, Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert is only standard with the Mazda CX-5. Additionally, this SUV is the only one to include standard Vehicle Exit Warning, which alerts passengers if it detects approaching traffic before they open a door, helping prevent accidents before they happen.

Once you arrive at your destination, the Mazda CX-5’s rear seat alert will remind you to check the back row to ensure nobody gets left behind. Meanwhile, the Subaru Forester has no similar safety feature to protect your most precious cargo.