Mazda CX 5 vs Subaru Forester: Which is Better

If you’re in the market for a new SUV, you’re in for a big decision. The 2022 Mazda CX 5 vs Subaru Forester is a head-to-head comparison of two of the most popular SUVs on the market.

In this blog post, we’ll outline the key differences between these two vehicles and help you decide which one is best for you.

First, we’ll take a look at the specs of the Subaru Forester vs Mazda CX 5 reliability, including performance ratings, fuel economy, and dimensions.

Next, we’ll discuss the dimensions and measurements of each car to help you get a better idea of how they might fit into your lifestyle.

Finally, we’ll offer our verdict on which car is best for you and give you some tips on how to buy it.

Overview of the Mazda CX 5 vs Subaru Forester

mazda cx 5 vs subaru forester

Which one is the better SUV? The Mazda CX 5 vs Subaru Forester. They both have great exterior designs that are sure to turn heads.

However, the Mazda CX 5 offers a more luxurious feel with its sleek lines and premium materials.

Additionally, the Mazda CX 5 offers superior fuel economy, thanks to its fuel-efficient engine and fuel-sipping drivetrain.

As for the Subaru Forester, it has a more rugged look that is perfect for those who value versatility and outdoor activities.

It also offers great fuel economy and performance, making it a great choice for those who drive in heavy traffic or live in areas with hilly terrain.

Performance Specs

When it comes to choosing an SUV, there are a lot of factors to consider. But if you’re looking for superior performance and fuel efficiency, the Mazda CX 5 should be at the top of your list.

Not only does it offer superior fuel economy, but its engine and transmission are also top-notch.

In addition, the Forester is a more comfortable car to drive – thanks to its well-designed seats and suspension system. However, if you’re after superior performance, the CX 5 should be your go-to car.

It offers superior acceleration and torque, making it a great choice for driving on the open road.

Overall, the CX 5 is the better choice if you’re looking for an SUV that offers superior performance and fuel economy.

Read also: Mazda 3 Grand Touring vs Sport

Engine and Transmission

When it comes to engine and transmission, the Mazda CX 5 vs. Subaru Forester comparison is a close one.

Both vehicles come with all-wheel drive, but the Mazda CX5’s 2.5L engine delivers 210 horsepower and 258Nm of torque while the Subaru Forester’s 2.5L engine offers only 150 hp and 207 Nm of torque (front-wheel drive).

For those looking for power, the 3.6L engines available in both models offer good performance – depending on which transmission type you choose.

With outputs ranging from 220 hp to 265 hp @ 6500 rpm in automatic mode or 252 hwy ft @ 4000 rpm with a manual transmission option.

Both engines also fuel efficient thanks to their relatively low fuel consumption ratings (CX 5: 10/18 mpg city/highway; Forester: 12/19 mpg city/highway).

Weight and Towing

Subaru Forester vs Mazda CX 5 2022 comparison based on weight, tow capacity, fuel economy, and cargo space.

The Subaru Forester is slightly more powerful and comes with a 2.5L engine compared to the Mazda CX 5’s 2-liter engine.

However, in terms of fuel economy (24 mpg city/36 mpg highway for the CX-5, and 26 mpg city /33 mpg highway for the Subaru Forester).

The cargo space (7 cubic feet vs 14 cubic feet), and torque (122 ft-lbs vs. 135 ft-lbs), they’re pretty comparable overall. It really depends on your needs which car is more suitable for you.

If you are looking for something that can tow heavier objects or need better fuel economy in urban areas, then the Mazda CX 5 might be the better choice for you.

Fuel and MPG

When it comes to SUVs, it’s important to consider your needs and preferences. That’s why we’re comparing the Mazda CX 5 vs Subaru Forester, two popular models that boast a lot of similarities.

Both SUVs have similar horsepower and torque, making it a personal preference which one you prefer.

If fuel economy is your main concern, the Mazda CX 5 should be your top pick! It offers better fuel economy than the Subaru Forester, making it a more environmentally-friendly choice.

Plus, the Mazda CX 5 has a more comfortable ride that is easier to drive. If you’re looking for an SUV that offers great value for your money, the Mazda CX 5 should be at the top of your list.

Fuel Economy

When it comes to fuel economy, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. For starters, make sure that the car you’re looking at has great ratings- somewhere around 25 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway is ideal.

Secondly, check out which engine type is being used, petrol or diesel engine will have different fuel economy ratings.

Thirdly, consider your lifestyle – if you drive mostly on highways then a car with good fuel economy won’t be as important for you.

Finally, always remember to drive safely- excessive speeding and reckless driving can drastically reduce fuel efficiency.

Emissions

There are many SUVs on the market that offer great fuel economy ratings from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

However, not all of them have low emissions levels. If you’re looking for an SUV that gets great fuel economy and is environmentally friendly.

The Mazda CX 5 might be a better option than some of the other models. On the other hand, if you want an SUV with lower emissions levels then you should consider choosing the Subaru Forester.

Fuel Tank Capacity

Whether you’re looking for a vehicle that gets great fuel economy ratings or one with a larger fuel tank capacity, the Mazda CX 5 is a better option than the Subaru Forester.

The Mazda CX 5 has ratings of 23 mpg in the city and 31 on the highway- significantly higher than those of the Subaru Forester’s 19/26 mpg City/Highway.

In addition to this, it has a larger fuel tank capacity of 17.3 gallons- more than enough to cover any journey you might take.

Dimensions and Measurement

Which SUV is the best for you? That’s a difficult question to answer, as they come in a variety of sizes, fuel efficiency, and features.

That said, if you’re looking for an SUV that’s spacious enough for family travel, but not too big or bulky, the CX 5 may be a good option for you.

It has better fuel economy and fewer emissions than the Forester, making it a good choice for environmentally conscious drivers.

The Forester, on the other hand, has more features, but the CX 5 is easier to drive and park. So, which one is the best for you? It all depends on your needs and preferences.

Exterior Dimensions

When it comes to exterior dimensions, the Mazda CX 5 is marginally larger compared to the Subaru Forester.

On average, it offers more cargo space than the Subaru. Wheelbase and length are similar between these two SUVs, but the Mazda has a wider track. The ground clearance of both SUVs- at 116 mm- is also about on par.

However, when we take into account torque and horsepower ratings- which would significantly influence off-road capability-the CX5 emerges as a clear winner.

Interior Space

When it comes to interior space, both the Mazda CX 5 and Subaru Forester come out on top.

The Mazda CX 5 is smaller in size than the Subaru Forester and has seats that are both comfortable and practical.

Additionally, the price difference between these two SUVs is significant – with the Mazda CX5 costing around $2000 more than the Subaru Forester.

Both SUVs have good amounts of interior space, with the 2022 Mazda CX-5 having slightly more room overall.

Cargo Space

The Mazda CX 5 has a much larger cargo space than the Subaru Forester. This translates to more storage room for groceries, sports equipment, or any other items you might need while on the go.

The Forester is powered by a diesel engine which gives it better fuel economy. The CX 5 also has a higher roof height which makes it easier to load and unload items.

These features make the Mazda CX-5 a slightly better choice if you’re looking for an SUV that’s both practical and safe when transporting goods.

Read also: Toyota RAV4 vs Mazda CX 5 2020: Which is the Better SUV

Wheels and Suspension

When it comes to wheels and suspension, the Mazda CX 5 has it all. Superior wheels and suspension make it a perfect choice for tough terrain or off-roading needs.

It also has a luxury feel, making it a great choice for those who want a car that looks and feels special.

The Subaru Forester, on the other hand, is a more affordable family vehicle that offers superior fuel economy.

It’s also a popular choice if you’re looking for a car that can handle all kinds of terrain. In the end, it comes down to what you’re looking for in a car.

If you’re looking for luxury, features, and fuel economy, the Mazda CX 5 is the perfect choice for you.

If you’re looking for something more affordable, the Subaru Forester may be a better fit.

Steering

When it comes to steering, car lovers have different opinions. Some prefer the manual steering system of Mazda cars while others think that Subaru Forester’s rack and pinion system is better.

However, in terms of handling and stability, both cars are great. The Mazda CX 5 has a better feel because its wheelbase is longer than that of the Subaru Forester.

This allows for more stability when cornering- something which is essential in slippery conditions or on twisty roads.

Additionally, the Mazda CX 5’s rack-and-pinion steering system is slower but more accurate than that of the Subaru Forester’s hydraulic system.

Wheels

When it comes to choosing the right wheel for your car, size and design are two key factors you need to consider.

Larger wheels are better for city driving, while smaller ones work well on off-road terrain. Both the Mazda CX 5 and Subaru Forester come with All-Wheel Drive (AWD).

However, the alloy wheels in the Mazda CX 5 make it a better choice overall as they offer durability and strength against corrosion.

On the other hand, steel wheels in Subaru Forester add additional weight which might not be ideal in some cases.

Suspension

When it comes to handling, the Mazda CX 5 vs Forester comparison shows that the former is much better than the latter.

It has a standard 18″ alloy wheel while the Forester comes with an optional all-terrain tire.

The MacPherson strut suspension system in place on CX5 makes it smoother and more agile than the forester’s double wishbone design.

Moreover, both cars come with an 8-speed automatic transmission which further enhances their performance.

On paper, then, Mazda CX 5 seems to be a clear winner in this comparison. However, as always there are several factors that need to be taken into account before making a final judgment.

Tires

When it comes to choosing a car, there are a lot of factors to consider. But one factor that is often overlooked is the tires.

In this article, we will discuss the different aspects of tires and their importance in relation to cars.

First off, let’s take a look at the Mazda CX 5 vs Subaru Forester off road and see which one offers better handling on bumpy roads.

The Mazda CX 5 has a softer suspension while the Forester has a firmer one- making it easier for users to handle on tricky roads.

Additionally, both cars have equal-sized tires but they offer varying levels of grip depending on the conditions you drive in snow vs rain, etc.

As for front-wheel or all-wheel drive, both vehicles come with them but the Mazda CX 5 features a Wheel Drive system while Subaru Forester has Front Wheel Drive.

Read also: BMW X3 vs Mazda CX-5: Which is the Better SUV

Colors and Materials

When it comes to colors and materials, the Mazda CX 5 vs Subaru Forester have a few things in common.

Both cars are made from plastic and metal, with the Forester also coming in a variety of colors and materials. However, there are a few key differences between the two.

The 2022 Mazda CX 5 doesn’t come with features like an airbag, traction control, or a backup camera.

While the Forester is also available in a variety of colors and materials that aren’t available on the Mazda CX 5.

Standard Exterior Colors

When it comes to standard exterior colors, the Forester and CX 5 come in a wide variety of options, including Ice Silver, Dark Gray Metallic, Cranberry Red Pearl, and more.

Not only that but both vehicles also come with standard air conditioning and power windows/locks/mirrors- making them perfect for everyday use.

Other features include 17-inch alloy wheels and a 3-spoke steering wheel on the Forester while the CX 5 comes with similar features as well as Meteor Gray.

Optional Exterior Colors

When it comes to car color, you have a lot of options. Not just when it comes to the actual vehicle color, but also when choosing exterior colors for your car.

Here are some of the most popular choices:

Mazda CX 5

The car is available in 4 different exterior colors – Sapphire Blue, Soul Red, Hibiscus Yellow, and Pure White.

All these colors look great together or separately and can match any outfit or mood you’re in.

Subaru Forester

There’s an optional roof rack that you can choose from – Eye-catching Blue, Sophisticated Green, and Polished Silver, all of which add extra visual appeal to the car.

Add some personality by choosing one of these daring shades! Both cars use high-quality materials that will last long – no need to worry about repairs soon after buying either one.

Standard Interior Materials

When it comes to interior materials, both the Mazda CX 5 and Subaru Forester come with a range of features that makes them stand out from the crowd.

For starters, both cars come in five beautiful colors- Soul Red, Meteor Gray, Brighton Blue, Snow White Pearl, and Champagne Gold.

They are also available in two different types of leather- standard-grade seats on Mazda CX5 upholsteries are made from genuine full-grain cowhide while those on Subaru Forester are made from natural kobu hide.

Both have more than enough storage options too- front seats can be folded down for increased legroom or there’s even an armrest with 2 cupholders and a USB port.

As for color choices, only the Subaru Forester comes in two hues, Charcoal Black and Ice Silver Metallic.

Features and Options

When it comes to car shopping, it’s important to do your research. That’s why we’ve put together this blog post comparing the Subaru Forester vs Mazda CX 5 2022.

Both vehicles offer great features and options, but it ultimately comes down to what you need and want.

Go test drive both cars and see which one best suits your needs! However, if you’re looking for a car with a few extra amenities, the Mazda CX 5 would be a better choice.

Infotainment

When it comes to infotainment, both the Mazda CX 5 and Subaru Forester come with features that are worth considering. However, it ultimately depends on your needs and which one you choose.

The Mazda CX 5 has a better interface that is easier to use, while the Subaru Forester comes with more features such as Blind Spot Monitoring and Lane Departure Warning.

Ultimately though, it’s up to you which car suits your needs best – so don’t be afraid to try out each of them for yourself!

Interior Trim

When it comes to choosing the right trim for your car, there are a lot of options available. So which one is the best for you?

Here’s a look at some of the most popular interior trims and their respective features:

  • Subaru Forester offers three different trim levels – Base, HIGHLANDER, and Limited.
  • The Limited trim is the top-of-the-line option and comes with superior features such as better design, higher quality materials used, and more.
  • Mazda CX 5 offers a choice of four different trims – Sport, Touring (4×4), Grand Touring (5×5), and SEL Premium.
  • Each trim level has its own set of features that make it unique from other variants in that series.

Comfort

The Mazda CX 5 is much more comfortable to drive than the Subaru Forester. It has a number of features that make it very comfortable, such as better suspension and comfort features.

The Subaru Forester also offers a lot of options that some people might find too luxurious or inconvenient.

Overall, the Mazda CX 5 is a better choice for those who are looking for superior comfort and handling in their vehicle.

Safety

When it comes to safety, both the Mazda cx 5 and Subaru forester are excellent choices. However, there are a few key differences that you should be aware of.

For example, the Mazda has more standard features that make it a better choice for families.

It also has a good safety rating, making it a smart choice for drivers who are looking for a versatile car that can handle a variety of situations.

The Subaru forester, on the other hand, is better for those who require a lot of off-road capabilities.

It’s also a bit more expensive, but it makes up for it with its superior performance and rugged design.

Make sure to consider all the factors before making your purchase – and be sure to consult car experts to get the most accurate information.

Safety Features

When it comes to safety, choosing the right car is essential. Although there are several features available on cars these days, it’s important to pick one that suits your specific needs and concerns.

For example, if you’re worried about being in a blind spot or having trouble reversing out of a parking spot, the CX 5 might be better suited for you than the forester.

However, if road rage bothers you and you’d like the peace of mind when driving at high speeds, then a car with a forwarding collision warning system would work well for you.

While Safety is foremost in our minds when shopping for new vehicles each year- make sure to consult with experts who can help narrow down your choices based on your individual needs and preferences

US NHTSA Crash Test Result

When it comes to SUVs, the Mazda CX 5 is a great choice. It received 5 stars in all categories tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

The only downside is that it received 4 stars for side impact. However, the forester scored 4 stars in frontal-offset and rollover tests but only 2 for side-impact.

So if you’re looking for an SUV that will provide stability and protection in all situations, the CX-5 would be a good option.

Airbags

If you are looking for a car that offers greater safety features, the Subaru forester should definitely be your choice.

It comes standard with blind spot monitoring and lane departure warning, two features that make it a safer option than most other cars on the market.

Additionally, its style is also top-notch – making it perfect for anyone who wants an automobile that looks good and feels safe in their hands.

Warranty

When it comes to choosing a midsize SUV, the Mazda cx 5 or Subaru forester should be at the top of your list. Both vehicles come with a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty, as well as 8- and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranties, respectively.

They both offer theft protection and roadside assistance as standard features, making them a safe bet for long-distance travel.

If you’re looking for something a little more sporty, the Mazda CX 5 might be a better choice.

It has a little bit more horsepower and torque than the forester, making it a bit more capable off-road.

However, if you need a vehicle that can handle all of your needs and more, the forester should be your go-to option.

It has a more robust bumper-to-bumper warranty and is overall a more robust car.

Warranty Summary

When buying a car, it is important to be aware of the warranty that comes with it. The length of this warranty will depend on the make and model of your car. In addition, both Mazda cx 5 and Subaru Forester come with a warranty.

If you have any doubts or questions about your car’s warranty status, contact the dealership or manufacturer directly for clarification. Doing so will help you minimize any potential hassles down the line.

Conclusion

After reading this blog, you will have a better understanding of the Mazda CX 5 vs Subaru Forester.

You will also be able to decide which SUV is best for you based on your individual needs and preferences.

Make sure to take the time to compare the different specs and see which one best suits your needs.

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