Subaru Forester vs Mazda CX-5

No matter what you're looking for in an SUV, the Subaru Forester and the Mazda CX-5 are sure to fit the bill. They each provide capable performance, expansive interiors, and plenty of cargo space. Which one is best suited to your needs?

Stateline Subaru wants to help drivers in Somerset, Bristol, and Fall River find out more about these popular SUVs. Check out our 2019 Subaru Forester vs. 2019 Mazda CX-5 comparison below to learn more!

Performance

Both the new Subaru Forester and the new Mazda CX-5 come standard with a 2.5L DOHC engine that generates just over 180 horsepower. While the CX-5 gets a SKYACTIV®-Drive 6-speed automatic transmission, the Forester teams up with a Lineartronic® CVT.

This efficient transmission helps the new Forester get better fuel economy than the CX-5. In fact, it can get an EPA-estimated 26 MPG city/33 MPG highway. The Mazda CX-5, on the other hand, maxes out at an EPA-estimated 25 MPG city/31 MPG highway.

To top it off, an all-wheel drivetrain comes standard in the Forester. While you can get a CX-5 with 4-wheel drive, this option is only available as an upgrade. Plus, choosing it will result in an SUV with even lower fuel economy.

Forester vs CX-5: Interior Space & Comfort

Both the Forester and the CX-5 have upscale interiors with high-quality accents and plush upholstery. However, the Forester also provides plenty of head- and legroom for all passengers. As a result, adults can get comfortable in any seat. Meanwhile, those same passengers may feel cramped when they take the CX-5 on long trips.

If you're planning on carrying any cargo, the new Forester is again your best bet. Its squared shape maximizes available cargo space, with 35.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 76.1 cubic feet when the seats are folded. The CX-5 only offers 30.9 cubic feet of cargo volume with the seats up and less than 60 cubic feet with the seats folded.

Tech and Safety

Both the Forester and the CX-5 have a long list of features available for every trim level. Unfortunately, the standard MAZDA CONNECT™ infotainment system is menu-intensive and difficult to learn. Plus, unless you upgrade to a higher trim level, it lacks Apple CarPlay™ and Android™ Auto smartphone integration. Both these connectivity options come standard in the Forester.

Both SUVs offer advanced safety features to help you avoid potential collisions. For instance, you can find the following systems in both the 2019 Forester and the 2019 CX-5:

• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Steering Responsive Headlights
• Automatic Emergency Braking

As a result, both vehicles have earned the title of 2019 TOP SAFETY PICK+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. However, the Subaru Forester does a slightly better job of front crash prevention. This is because it has a more advanced forward collision warning system than the Mazda CX-5.

Test Drive the New Forester at Our Subaru Dealership!

As you can see with this Subaru Forester vs. Mazda CX-5 comparison, the Forester is a better choice for an all-around SUV. It offers better performance, efficiency, comfort, and safety features.

Drivers in Somerset, Fall River, and Bristol can find out more about the new Subaru Forester with a visit to Stateline Subaru. Shoot us a message or drop by our Subaru dealership to schedule your test drive today!