Mazda CX-5 vs Subaru Forester: A Comprehensive Comparison

Compare Mazda CX-5 vs Subaru Forester – Compact SUVs have seen a surge in popularity and for a good reason.

These vehicles offer a perfect blend of versatility, practicality, and style. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into two leading contenders in the compact SUV category: the 2023 Mazda CX-5 and the 2023 Subaru Forester.

By examining various aspects including pricing, fuel economy, dimensions, safety features, warranty, specs, and pros and cons, we aim to help you make an informed decision when choosing between these two impressive vehicles.

What’s the Difference Between Mazda CX-5 and Subaru Forester?

When contemplating a new compact SUV, discerning the differences between models is vital to making an informed decision that aligns with your needs and preferences.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 and the 2023 Subaru Forester are both prominent contenders in this category, each offering a unique set of characteristics that cater to various driving experiences and lifestyles.

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the key differences between these two compact SUVs.

Pricing

When considering a new vehicle, pricing is often one of the key factors that influence our decision-making process.

In the case of the 2023 Mazda CX-5 and the 2023 Subaru Forester, understanding the pricing structure can provide valuable insights into the value each SUV offers.

Let’s delve into the pricing details of these two vehicles to help you make an informed choice.

– 2023 Mazda CX-5 Price

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 presents itself as a stylish and versatile compact SUV, offering a range of trims and features to suit diverse preferences.

The pricing for the CX-5 varies based on the trim level and additional features you opt for. Here’s a breakdown of the starting prices for some of the key trims:

2.5 S Model: The base 2.5 S model of the 2023 Mazda CX-5 comes with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $26,700. This starting price provides you with a solid foundation that includes Mazda’s renowned driving dynamics and a host of standard features.

2.5 S Preferred Trim: For those seeking a bit more refinement and technology, the 2.5 S Preferred trim is a popular choice. It starts at $30,190, offering additional features that enhance comfort, convenience, and connectivity.

It’s important to note that these prices are subject to a destination charge, which is an additional cost associated with transporting the vehicle to the dealership.

With its appealing design and upscale features, the Mazda CX-5 positions itself as a competitive option in the compact SUV market.

– 2023 Subaru Forester Price

The 2023 Subaru Forester is another strong contender in the compact SUV segment, known for its practicality, safety features, and all-wheel drive capabilities.

Here’s a breakdown of the starting prices for some of the notable trims of the 2023 Subaru Forester:

Forester CVT: The base model of the 2023 Subaru Forester, equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), starts at a competitive price of $26,395. This entry-level option provides the renowned Subaru with reliability and versatility.

Forester Premium CVT: Stepping up to the Forester Premium trim, which offers additional amenities and features, comes with a starting price of $29,395. This trim level enhances the driving experience with upgraded technology and convenience features.

Forester Sport CVT: For those who seek a more adventurous and sporty appeal, the Forester Sport CVT starts at $30,965. This trim adds unique styling elements and features tailored to an active lifestyle.

– Comparing the Pricing

When comparing the pricing of the 2023 Mazda CX-5 and the 2023 Subaru Forester, it’s evident that both vehicles offer competitive starting prices that cater to different budgets and preferences.

The Mazda CX-5 provides a slightly lower starting price for its base model, while the Subaru Forester offers a range of trims that cater to various needs, with some starting prices being comparable to the CX-5’s offerings.

Ultimately, the decision between these two vehicles should consider factors beyond the initial price, such as features, technology, performance, and long-term value.

Taking into account your individual priorities and requirements will lead you to the SUV that best suits your lifestyle and driving preferences.

Whether you opt for the Mazda CX-5’s style and driving dynamics or the Subaru Forester’s practicality and all-wheel drive capabilities, both options promise a rewarding ownership experience.

Read also: Toyota RAV4 vs Mazda CX 5 2020

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy has become a crucial consideration for many car buyers, driven by both environmental concerns and the desire for cost-effective driving.

In the realm of compact SUVs, the 2023 Mazda CX-5 and the 2023 Subaru Forester are two prominent contenders that offer distinct engine options and efficiency ratings.

Let’s delve into the fuel efficiency details of these vehicles to help you understand their performance on the road.

– 2023 Mazda CX-5 Fuel Economy

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 provides drivers with a choice between two engine options, each offering its own set of fuel economy ratings.

2.5-liter Engine: The base engine, a 2.5-liter powerplant, offers a fuel economy rating of 24 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

This engine is designed to provide a balance between performance and efficiency, making it suitable for daily commutes and longer journeys.

Turbocharged Engine: For those seeking more power, the turbocharged engine is available as an option. However, this does come with a slight trade-off in fuel efficiency.

The turbocharged engine is rated at 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. Despite the power boost, there is a small sacrifice in fuel economy.

In real-world testing, the CX-5’s fuel efficiency has been assessed on a 75-mph highway route, yielding notable results.

The standard engine returned an impressive 32 mpg, whereas the turbocharged engine achieved 30 mpg under similar conditions.

– 2023 Subaru Forester Fuel Economy

The 2023 Subaru Forester, known for its practicality and all-wheel drive capabilities, offers competitive fuel efficiency ratings that align with much of the compact-crossover segment.

EPA Ratings: The Forester boasts EPA fuel economy ratings of 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.

These ratings reflect the Subaru Forester’s commitment to providing efficient performance without compromising its versatile capabilities.

In real-world testing, a Forester Touring test vehicle was subjected to a 75-mph highway fuel-economy test.

The result was a commendable 32 mpg, which came very close to its highway-fuel-economy rating. This outcome aligns with the efficiency achieved by the Toyota RAV4 in similar conditions.

In conclusion, when it comes to fuel economy, both the 2023 Mazda CX-5 and the 2023 Subaru Forester offer competitive efficiency ratings within the compact SUV segment.

The Mazda CX-5’s engine options cater to different preferences, with the base engine providing better fuel economy and the turbocharged engine delivering enhanced performance.

On the other hand, the Subaru Forester impresses with its EPA-rated fuel efficiency and its ability to match its highway-fuel-economy rating in real-world testing.

Ultimately, your choice between these two SUVs will depend on your priorities. If fuel efficiency is a paramount concern, the Subaru Forester’s EPA ratings might sway you.

However, if you value versatility and are open to a slightly lower fuel efficiency in exchange for a more spirited driving experience, the Mazda CX-5’s options could be the ideal fit.

Both SUVs stand as viable options for individuals seeking efficiency, comfort, and practicality in their daily drives.

Dimensions

When choosing a compact SUV, understanding the dimensions is essential to ensure that the vehicle meets your space and comfort requirements.

In the case of the 2023 Mazda CX-5 and the 2023 Subaru Forester, their dimensions contribute to their distinct characters and capabilities.

Let’s dive into the dimensions of these two vehicles to help you gauge their sizes and interior spaces.

– 2023 Mazda CX-5 Dimensions

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 presents a sleek and sporty profile while offering practical interior dimensions:

Front Seat Dimensions:

Rear Seat Dimensions:

– 2023 Subaru Forester Dimensions

The 2023 Subaru Forester emphasizes practicality and all-terrain capabilities, reflected in its dimensions:

Front Seat Dimensions:

Rear Seat Dimensions:

In comparison, the dimensions of the 2023 Mazda CX-5 and the 2023 Subaru Forester reveal their distinct characteristics.

The Mazda CX-5 offers slightly more compact exterior dimensions, potentially making it easier to maneuver in urban environments.

On the other hand, the Subaru Forester provides a taller height and more substantial cargo capacity, emphasizing its practicality and off-road capabilities.

When choosing between these two vehicles, consider your preferences for interior space, cargo capacity, and overall size.

Whether you prioritize a sleek and sporty profile or a more rugged and spacious design, both the Mazda CX-5 and the Subaru Forester cater to different needs within the compact SUV category.

Read also: Mazda CX 5 vs Volkswagen Tiguan

Color Options

Expressing your personal style is an exciting part of selecting a new vehicle. The color options available for the Mazda CX-5 vs Subaru Forester 2023 contribute to their overall aesthetics and the opportunity to make your SUV uniquely yours.

Let’s explore the exterior and interior color choices for these two compact SUVs.

– 2023 Mazda CX-5 Color Options

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offers a selection of exterior and interior colors that complement its design and interior comfort:

Exterior Colors:

• Jet Black Mica
• Soul Red Crystal Metallic
• Rhodium White Metallic
• Eternal Blue Mica

Interior Color:

• Black Cloth

The exterior colors range from classic and sophisticated to bold and vibrant, allowing you to choose the one that resonates with your style. The black cloth interior adds a touch of refinement to the driving experience.

– 2023 Subaru Forester Color Options

The 2023 Subaru Forester offers an extensive array of exterior and interior colors, allowing you to tailor your SUV to your preferences:

Exterior Colors:

• Cascade Green Silica
• Magnetite Gray Metallic
• Autumn Green Metallic
• Brilliant Bronze Metallic
• Crimson Red Pearl
• Crystal White Pearl
• Horizon Blue Pearl
• Crystal Black Silica
• Ice Silver Metallic

Interior Colors:

• Gray Premium Cloth
• Black Premium Cloth

The Forester’s color palette ranges from earthy tones to vivid shades, giving you the freedom to choose a color that reflects your personality. The availability of two interior color options adds an extra layer of customization.

In conclusion, the color options available for the 2023 Mazda CX-5 and the 2023 Subaru Forester offer a diverse range of choices, ensuring that you can find a combination that resonates with your taste and style.

Whether you prefer a sleek and sophisticated look, a vibrant and eye-catching hue, or a natural and earthy tone, both SUVs provide a variety of colors to choose from.

These color options allow you to make a statement and express your individuality as you hit the road in your new compact SUV.

Safety Features

Safety is paramount when considering a new vehicle, and the 2023 Mazda CX-5 and 2023 Subaru Forester excel in equipping their models with advanced driver-assistance technologies.

Here’s a closer look at the safety features these two compact SUVs offer to provide you with peace of mind on the road.

– 2023 Mazda CX-5 Safety Features

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 prioritizes safety by including a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies, with the option for additional safety features:

Standard Safety Features:

• Automated Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection: This technology helps prevent or mitigate collisions by automatically applying the brakes if a potential collision is detected.
• Lane-Departure Warning and Lane-Keeping Assist: These features help you stay within your lane by providing alerts and steering interventions if you unintentionally drift out of your lane.
• Adaptive Cruise Control: This technology maintains a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead by adjusting your speed accordingly.

Optional Safety Features:

The CX-5 offers additional optional safety assists that can further enhance your driving experience and safety. These may include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and more.

– 2023 Subaru Forester Safety Features

The 2023 Subaru Forester emphasizes safety with the inclusion of Subaru’s EyeSight suite, which consists of a range of advanced camera-based driver-assistance features:

Standard Safety Features:

• Automated Emergency Braking: This feature detects potential collisions and can automatically apply the brakes to prevent or reduce the severity of an impact.
• Lane-Departure Warning with Lane-Keeping Assist: The Forester’s system alerts you if you drift out of your lane and can provide corrective steering inputs to help you stay centered.
• Adaptive Cruise Control: This technology maintains a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you by adjusting your speed as needed.

In conclusion, the 2023 Mazda CX-5 and the 2023 Subaru Forester place a strong emphasis on safety by offering a range of advanced driver-assistance technologies as standard features.

The Mazda CX-5 provides a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, with the option for additional safety assistance.

The Subaru Forester, on the other hand, comes standard with Subaru’s EyeSight suite, which includes key safety technologies that promote collision prevention and driver awareness.

Before making your final decision, it’s advisable to research the crash-test results of both the Mazda CX-5 and the Subaru Forester by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

This information will give you a complete picture of how these vehicles perform in various safety scenarios and provide valuable insights into their overall safety records.

Read also: Mazda CX 5 vs Toyota RAV4

Warranty

When investing in a new vehicle, having a comprehensive warranty package can offer peace of mind and protect your investment.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 and the 2023 Subaru Forester offer warranty coverage to ensure that you’re covered in case of unexpected issues.

Let’s delve into the warranty details for these two compact SUVs to help you understand the extent of their coverage.

– 2023 Mazda CX-5 Warranty

The warranty coverage for the 2023 Mazda CX-5 offers protection for a specific duration and mileage, though some competitors may provide more extensive coverage:

• Limited Warranty: Mazda’s limited warranty covers the vehicle for a duration of three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. This warranty encompasses various components and systems of the vehicle, ensuring that you’re protected from defects and issues during the initial period of ownership.

• Powertrain Warranty: The powertrain warranty provided by Mazda extends for five years or 60,000 miles. This coverage includes the crucial components that drive the vehicle’s performance, such as the engine, transmission, and drivetrain.

• Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance: Unlike some competitors, Mazda does not offer complimentary scheduled maintenance as part of its warranty package. This means that routine maintenance visits and services will be out-of-pocket expenses for the owner.

– 2023 Subaru Forester Warranty

The warranty package for the 2023 Subaru Forester offers similar coverage to the Mazda CX-5, though some rivals may provide additional value:

• Limited Warranty: Subaru’s limited warranty also provides coverage for three years or 36,000 miles. This warranty addresses potential defects and issues in various components and systems of the vehicle.

• Powertrain Warranty: The powertrain warranty for the Subaru Forester matches Mazda’s offering, extending for five years or 60,000 miles. This coverage includes the engine, transmission, and other critical drivetrain components.

• Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance: Similar to the Mazda CX-5, the Subaru Forester does not include complimentary scheduled maintenance as part of its warranty package.

In comparison, the warranty packages of the 2023 Mazda CX-5 and the 2023 Subaru Forester, it’s evident that both vehicles offer similar coverage for limited warranty and powertrain warranty durations.

However, some competitors in this segment provide more extensive warranty coverage and even include complimentary scheduled maintenance, which can add significant value to the ownership experience.

As a potential buyer, it’s important to consider the warranty package in conjunction with other factors such as vehicle features, performance, and overall cost of ownership.

If an extended warranty or complimentary maintenance is a priority for you, it’s advisable to explore the offerings of other manufacturers in the compact SUV segment.

Specifications

Examining the specifications of a vehicle provides insight into its performance, capabilities, and overall driving experience.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 and the 2023 Subaru Forester offer unique powertrains and features that cater to different preferences. Here’s a detailed look at the specifications of these two compact SUVs:

– 2023 Mazda CX-5 Specs

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 delivers a blend of performance and efficiency with its powertrain:

– 2023 Subaru Forester Specs

The 2023 Subaru Forester offers a capable powertrain that aligns with its all-terrain capabilities:

Comparing the specifications of the 2023 Mazda CX-5 and the 2023 Subaru Forester reveals their distinct powertrains and performance characteristics.

The Mazda CX-5 boasts a slightly higher horsepower output and torque, which can translate to a more spirited driving experience.

Additionally, the CX-5 offers a higher maximum towing capacity, making it a suitable choice for those who require towing capabilities.

On the other hand, the Subaru Forester’s powertrain emphasizes efficiency and practicality, which align well with its all-wheel drive capabilities and off-road potential.

While it offers slightly lower horsepower and torque compared to the CX-5, the Forester’s performance is well-suited for a variety of driving scenarios.

When choosing between these two compact SUVs, consider your priorities for power, efficiency, towing capacity, and all-terrain capabilities.

Both the Mazda CX-5 and the Subaru Forester provide unique strengths that cater to different driving preferences and lifestyle needs.

Read also: Mazda CX 5 vs Mazda CX-30

Reliability: Subaru Forester vs Mazda CX-5

The Subaru Forester and Mazda CX-5 are both highly reliable compact SUVs, but the Forester has a slight edge in terms of reliability.

According to RepairPal, the Forester has a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.0, while the CX-5 has a rating of 3.0 out of 5.0. This means that the Forester is expected to have fewer major repairs over its lifetime than the CX-5.

The Forester’s reliability is due in part to its simple design and use of tried-and-true components. Subaru has been building SUVs for decades, and the Forester has been around for over 20 years.

This gives Subaru a lot of experience with the design and engineering of the Forester, which helps to ensure its reliability.

The CX-5 is a newer vehicle, and it is more complex than the Forester. This can lead to more potential problems, although Mazda has a good reputation for reliability. However, the CX-5’s overall reliability rating is still slightly lower than the Forester’s.

In terms of specific problems, the Forester has been known to have issues with its head gaskets, water pumps, and timing belts. However, these problems are relatively rare, and they are usually covered by Subaru’s warranty.

The CX-5 has not had any major reliability issues, but it has been known to have problems with its infotainment system and its fuel economy.

Overall, the Subaru Forester is the more reliable compact SUV. It has a simpler design, a longer track record, and a slightly higher reliability rating than the Mazda CX-5. If you are looking for a reliable SUV, the Forester is a great option.

Here is a table comparing the reliability of the Subaru Forester and Mazda CX-5:

Resale Value: Mazda CX-5 vs Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester and the Mazda CX-5 are both popular midsize SUVs that offer good value for money. However, when it comes to resale value, the Subaru Forester has a slight edge.

According to iSeeCars.com, the Subaru Forester loses 38.4% of its value over 5 years, while the Mazda CX-5 loses 39.8%. This means that the Subaru Forester retains 1.4 percentage points more of its value than the Mazda CX-5.

There are a few reasons why the Subaru Forester has a higher resale value. First, Subarus are known for their reliability and longevity.

This makes them a good choice for people who want a car that will hold its value well over time. Second, Subarus are popular with buyers who want all-wheel drive.

This is a feature that is in high demand in many parts of the country, and it can add to the resale value of a car.

The Mazda CX-5 is also a great car, but it doesn’t have the same reputation for reliability and longevity as the Subaru Forester.

Additionally, the CX-5 doesn’t offer all-wheel drive on all trim levels. This can make it a less appealing choice for buyers in areas with harsh winters or wet climates.

If you’re looking for a midsize SUV with good resale value, the Subaru Forester is a great option. It’s reliable, has all-wheel drive, and is well-liked by buyers.

The Mazda CX-5 is also a good car, but it doesn’t have the same resale value as the Forester.

Here is a table comparing the resale value of the Mazda CX-5 and Subaru Forester:

As you can see, the Subaru Forester has a slightly lower depreciation rate than the Mazda CX-5. This means that the Forester will retain more of its value over time, which is good for resale.

Read also: Mazda CX 5 vs Kia Sportage

Pros and Cons

Evaluating the pros and cons of a vehicle is crucial to making an informed decision that aligns with your preferences and priorities.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 and the 2023 Subaru Forester each come with their own set of strengths and weaknesses. Let’s delve into the pros and cons of these compact SUVs to help you understand their key attributes.

– 2023 Mazda CX-5: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Engaging Driving Dynamics: The Mazda CX-5 is renowned for its sporty and engaging driving experience, delivering nimble handling and responsive steering that make driving enjoyable.

• Attractive and Upscale Cabin: The CX-5 boasts an interior that combines style and quality, featuring upscale materials and a design that reflects attention to detail.

• Optional Turbocharged Engine: The availability of a turbocharged engine option enhances the CX-5’s performance, providing ample power for those who seek an extra boost.

• Quiet at Highway Speeds: The CX-5 offers a quiet and comfortable ride at highway speeds, contributing to a serene driving environment for long journeys.

Cons:

• Base Engine Acceleration: The base engine’s acceleration might not meet the expectations of drivers seeking quicker acceleration, especially when compared to competitors.

• Firm Ride: The ride quality of the CX-5 can be slightly firm, which might be noticeable on rough roads or uneven surfaces.

• Less Rear Legroom and Cargo Space: The CX-5 provides less rear legroom and cargo space compared to some of its competitors, potentially affecting passenger comfort and practicality.

– 2023 Subaru Forester: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Standard All-Wheel Drive: The Subaru Forester comes standard with all-wheel drive, enhancing traction and stability, particularly in challenging road conditions.

• Standard Driver Assist Features: Subaru equips the Forester with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, providing added safety and convenience.

• Enhanced Off-Road Capability: The Forester’s impressive ground clearance contributes to enhanced off-road capabilities, making it suitable for adventure enthusiasts.

• Generous Cargo Capacity: The Forester offers a spacious cargo area, accommodating your hauling needs for both everyday tasks and longer trips.

Cons:

• Engine Underpowered: Some drivers might find the Forester’s base engine to be underpowered, especially when compared to more robust options available in the market.

• Modest Tow Rating: The Forester’s towing capacity might be limiting for those who require higher towing capabilities, such as hauling trailers or larger loads.

Conclusion

Both the 2023 Mazda CX-5 and the 2023 Subaru Forester present a range of strengths and weaknesses that cater to different preferences and priorities.

The Mazda CX-5 shines with its engaging driving dynamics, upscale cabin, and optional turbocharged engine.

On the other hand, the Subaru Forester offers standard all-wheel drive, a comprehensive suite of driver-assist features, and enhanced off-road capabilities.

When making your choice, consider your preferences for driving experience, interior comfort, cargo space, and capabilities.

Understanding the pros and cons of each vehicle will help you align your decision with your lifestyle and driving needs, ensuring that you choose the compact SUV that suits you best.

FAQs

Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?

Both the Mazda CX-5 and Subaru Forester offer commendable fuel efficiency, but the Forester’s standard all-wheel-drive system may provide a slight edge in this department.

Does the Mazda CX-5 have a turbocharged engine option?

Yes, the Mazda CX-5 offers an available turbocharged engine that delivers enhanced performance compared to the base engine.

Are advanced safety features available in both vehicles?

Yes, both the Mazda CX-5 and Subaru Forester offer advanced safety features and driver assistance systems to enhance on-road safety.

Is the Subaru Forester suitable for off-road adventures?

Absolutely, the Subaru Forester’s standard all-wheel drive and capable suspension make it well-suited for light off-road excursions.

Which SUV has a more upscale interior?

The Mazda CX-5 stands out with its premium materials and upscale interior design, offering a more luxurious cabin ambiance compared to the Subaru Forester.

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