When choosing a compact SUV, two of the most popular options on the market are the 2025 Mazda CX-5 and the 2026 Subaru Forester. Both of these SUVs offer a mix of style, performance, and practicality, but they cater to different needs. The Mazda CX-5 is known for its efficiency and agility, while the Subaru Forester is a bit more rugged, offering more space and higher performance. Let’s take a closer look at their performance, interior, tech, and value to see which one fits your lifestyle best.
Power and Performance: Which SUV Delivers a More Dynamic Ride?
2025 Mazda CX-5
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 offers a range of powertrains, including the standard 2.5L 4-cylinder engine and the more powerful 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. The standard engine produces 203 horsepower, while the turbocharged option offers a more robust 275 horsepower, providing ample power for both city driving and highway cruising. The CX-5 comes with front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), making it a versatile choice for different driving conditions. The focus is on comfort and smooth handling, offering a quieter and more luxurious driving experience.
2026 Subaru Forester
The 2026 Subaru Forester features a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. While its output is slightly lower than the CX-5, the Forester is equipped with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD), which makes it the perfect choice for off-road enthusiasts and those who frequently drive in challenging conditions. With its raised ground clearance and rugged suspension, the Forester excels in versatility, allowing drivers to tackle everything from mountain trails to snow-covered roads with ease.
Verdict: The Mazda CX-5 offers a more sporty, responsive ride, while the Subaru Forester provides better off-road capabilities and traction, making it the better option for those who prioritize rugged driving.
Interior Design and Comfort: Which SUV Feels More Premium?
2025 Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 features a spacious interior with a premium feel, showcasing high-quality materials like leather upholstery, wood accents, and soft-touch surfaces. The cabin is designed to be both elegant and functional, offering comfortable seating for passengers and ample cargo space. The 10.3-inch infotainment screen and dual-zone climate control come standard, adding to the overall comfort and luxury of the vehicle.
2026 Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester offers a more practical interior, with ample space for passengers and cargo. It’s particularly comfortable for taller passengers, thanks to its generous headroom and legroom. The infotainment system includes a 6.5-inch touchscreen in the base model, with an upgrade to an 8-inch display in higher trims. The cargo capacity is more spacious than the CX-5, offering 31.1 cubic feet with the seats up, making it ideal for carrying gear for outdoor adventures. However, the interior materials are more utilitarian than the premium feel of the Mazda.
Verdict: The Mazda CX-5 has a more luxurious interior, while the Subaru Forester offers more space and practicality, especially for families or those who need extra room for gear.
Technology and Features: Which SUV Keeps You More Connected?
2025 Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 comes with a solid range of tech features. The base trim includes an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, while higher trims offer a 10.25-inch display. It also comes with Mazda’s SmartSense suite of safety features, including lane-keeping assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control.
2026 Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester comes with the Starlink infotainment system, which includes an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology comes standard and includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking. While the Forester’s infotainment system is solid, it doesn’t quite match the refinement and ease-of-use of the Mazda CX-5’s system.
Verdict: The Mazda CX-5 offers a more advanced tech setup, but the Subaru Forester provides solid tech features, especially in the area of safety and driver assistance.
Pricing and Value: Which SUV Gives You More for Your Money?
2025 Mazda CX-5
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 starts at around $26,000 for the base model, with higher trims reaching approximately $35,000. It offers a more luxurious feel and sporty performance for the price, making it an excellent value for those who want a compact SUV that feels like a premium vehicle without the luxury price tag.
2026 Subaru Forester
The 2026 Subaru Forester starts at about $26,000, with higher trims going up to around $35,000. The Forester offers great value for those who need an off-road-capable vehicle with plenty of space and practical features. It’s perfect for adventurers who want a rugged yet affordable SUV.
Verdict: The Mazda CX-5 offers better value for those looking for luxury and performance at a reasonable price. The Subaru Forester, while slightly more practical, provides great value for those seeking a rugged and spacious SUV with off-road capabilities.
Conclusion
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 is perfect for those who want a stylish, sporty SUV with a premium feel and great performance. It’s ideal for drivers who want a compact SUV that delivers on both comfort and agility.
The 2026 Subaru Forester, on the other hand, is the perfect choice for those who need a rugged and spacious SUV with excellent off-road capabilities and practical features. It’s a great option for families or those who need a vehicle that can handle both urban roads and rough terrains.
Ultimately, your decision will come down to whether you prefer the luxury and performance of the Mazda CX-5 or the ruggedness and space of the Subaru Forester.
Read more- 2026 Mazda CX-5: Incredible Features, Specs, Trims and Pricing – The Most Trending Car Right Now !
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Sarthak Singh, an automotive enthusiast from Varanasi, India, is currently pursuing a B.Tech in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Sustainable Energy Technology at NIT Kurukshetra. Born on 23rd May 2003, Sarthak blends his technical background with a deep passion for the automotive world, particularly focusing on sustainable and energy-efficient technologies.
With over 2 years of experience in automotive content writing, Sarthak brings valuable insights into the latest trends, reviews, and innovations in the automotive industry. His expertise enables him to deeply explore how green technologies, like electric vehicles and renewable energy systems, are shaping the future of transportation.
Through his contributions to MotorGold.net, Sarthak provides expert advice on vehicle maintenance, understanding modern automotive trends, and embracing sustainable solutions for a greener future.