What To Know
- The Subaru Forester has a slightly higher resale value than the Mazda CX-5, making it a more financially sound investment in the long run.
- The CX-5, on the other hand, provides a more refined driving experience, a more powerful turbocharged engine option, and a slightly better fuel economy.
- For buyers seeking a rugged and versatile SUV with excellent off-road capabilities and a spacious interior, the Subaru Forester emerges as the better choice.
When it comes to choosing a versatile and reliable SUV, the Subaru Forester and Mazda CX-5 stand out as two top contenders. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of performance, comfort, and advanced features. However, discerning buyers may wonder, “Is Subaru Forester better than Mazda CX-5?” To answer this question, we delve into an in-depth comparison of these automotive powerhouses.
Performance and Handling
Powertrain Options
The Subaru Forester offers a choice of two engines: a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine generating 256 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. The Mazda CX-5, on the other hand, comes standard with a 2.5-liter Naturally Aspirated engine delivering 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. However, the CX-5 also offers a more powerful 2.5-liter Turbocharged engine that produces 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.
All-Wheel Drive
Both the Forester and CX-5 come standard with all-wheel drive, providing exceptional traction and handling in all weather conditions. Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is renowned for its stability and capability, while Mazda’s i-ACTIV AWD system offers precise torque distribution for improved handling and fuel efficiency.
Off-Road Capabilities
The Subaru Forester has a slight edge in off-road capabilities due to its higher ground clearance (8.7 inches vs. 8.6 inches in the CX-5) and X-Mode, which optimizes the vehicle’s settings for tackling rough terrain.
Interior Comfort and Features
Cabin Space
Both vehicles offer spacious interiors with ample room for passengers and cargo. The Forester boasts a larger cargo capacity (35.4 cubic feet vs. 30.9 cubic feet in the CX-5) but has slightly less passenger space in the second row.
Comfort and Convenience
The Forester and CX-5 offer a comfortable and feature-rich cabin experience. The Forester’s StarLink infotainment system is user-friendly and offers a wide range of features, while the CX-5’s Mazda Connect system stands out with its premium sound quality and intuitive navigation.
Safety Features
Both vehicles come equipped with advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The CX-5, however, offers a slight advantage with its 360-degree camera system and blind spot monitoring as standard features.
Fuel Efficiency and Emissions
The Forester and CX-5 offer comparable fuel efficiency. The Forester with the 2.5-liter engine achieves 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, while the CX-5 with the 2.5-liter engine gets 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
Reliability and Maintenance Costs
Both the Subaru Forester and Mazda CX-5 have excellent reliability ratings. The Forester has a slightly lower average annual maintenance cost of around $450 compared to the CX-5’s $500.
Resale Value
The Subaru Forester has a slightly higher resale value than the Mazda CX-5, making it a more financially sound investment in the long run.
Final Verdict: Is the Subaru Forester Better Than the Mazda CX-5?
The answer to the question “Is Subaru Forester better than Mazda CX-5?” ultimately depends on individual preferences and priorities. The Forester offers superior off-road capabilities, a more spacious cargo area, and a slightly lower cost of ownership. The CX-5, on the other hand, provides a more refined driving experience, a more powerful turbocharged engine option, and a slightly better fuel economy.
For buyers seeking a rugged and versatile SUV with excellent off-road capabilities and a spacious interior, the Subaru Forester emerges as the better choice. Those who prioritize a refined driving experience, a more powerful engine, and a higher level of standard safety features may prefer the Mazda CX-5.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Which vehicle has a better infotainment system?
A: Both the Subaru Forester and Mazda CX-5 offer user-friendly infotainment systems. The Forester’s StarLink system is known for its ease of use, while the CX-5’s Mazda Connect system excels in sound quality and navigation.
Q: Is the Forester more reliable than the CX-5?
A: Both vehicles have excellent reliability ratings, but the Forester has a slightly lower average annual maintenance cost.
Q: Which vehicle has a higher resale value?
A: The Subaru Forester has a slightly higher resale value than the Mazda CX-5.
Q: Is the CX-5 more fuel-efficient than the Forester?
A: The Mazda CX-5 with the 2.5-liter engine has slightly better fuel economy than the Subaru Forester with the 2.5-liter engine.
Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Mazda CX-5 offers a more powerful 2.5-liter turbocharged engine option, while the Subaru Forester‘s most powerful engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged unit.