The Mazda CX-5 and the Subaru Forester strike the perfect balance between a comfortable cruiser and an exciting expedition. Both SUVs come standard with a 2.5L engine, but that doesn’t mean they produce the same performance output.

MAZDA CX-5	vs	Subaru Forester
187 HP	Standard Horsepower	180 HP
186 lb-ft	Standard Torque	178 lb-ft

The more potent capabilities of the Mazda CX-5 mean quicker acceleration, faster throttle response, and an overall peppier ride.

But that's only part of what the Mazda CX-5 offers in terms of performance. It features an automatic transmission with manual mode and Hill Launch Assist. The former allows you to manually adjust transmission gears for a more engaged ride, while the latter prevents rollback from a stationary position on a hill. The Subaru Forester offers neither.

There's nothing quite like unplugging and embracing Mother Nature. Thanks to their standard all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, the Mazda CX-5 and Subaru Forester help you reach remote trailheads and secluded boat ramps. You'll experience enhanced traction on low-friction surfaces and feel more confident when traversing muddy paths or rocky roads.

Either SUV also comes with a selectable mode that helps enhance the AWD capabilities, further assisting you with your adventures.

While these SUVs share off-roading similarities, the Mazda CX-5 offers one strategic advantage: it can tow up to 2,000 pounds when properly equipped. This is the perfect capacity for fishing boats, jet skis, or a compact travel trailer. While the Forester can also tow, it maxes out at a 1,500-pound towing capacity.

No two vehicles are identical; the Mazda CX-5 and the Subaru Forester exemplify this. Each SUV takes a different approach to design, allowing you to choose the model that best matches your aesthetic.

The Forester's wide stance, angular profile, and various nature-inspired color options, including River Rock, Ice Silver, and Horizon Blue, make it rugged in design. The Mazda CX-5, on the other hand, offers the best of both worlds.

This luxury SUV appears gracefully rugged with its long wheelbase and sharp wheel design. Yet, its elongated, sweeping hood and sturdy stance give the Mazda CX-5 an elegant edge. This is enhanced with available dazzling exterior features like Gloss Black exterior accents and LED headlights with signature lighting.

The Mazda CX-5 and the Subaru Forester were uniquely designed to make your drive more comfortable. Inside the Mazda CX-5, you'll find a sophisticated cabin draped in either cloth or available leatherette or leather upholstery. For the most opulent interior, the 2.5 Turbo Signature trim features:

• Nappa leather upholstery
• Genuine layered wood trim
• Black cloth headliner
• 3-level adjustment heated/ventilated front seats

A 3-level adjustment heated rear seat feature is also included with this trim level.

The Subaru Forester, on the other hand, remains rugged with its cloth or water-repellant upholstery options. The Forester only introduces sophisticated features, such as leather upholstery and heated front and rear seats on its highest trim level. You won't find genuine wood accent trim or ventilated front seats with the Forester.

Your favorite songs, podcasts, and audiobooks are always within reach when you drive the Mazda CX-5 or the Subaru Forester since they come standard with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ integration. Once synced to your SUV, your smartphone will be mirrored onto the central touchscreen display, providing convenient and intuitive access to your entertainment features.

A 4-speaker audio system is also standard in these SUVs. Sadly, for Forester drivers, this is where the similarities end. The Mazda CX-5 offers additional features, including:

• 10.25-inch touchscreen display
• Genuine layered wood trim
• Optional wireless charging pad
• Available Bose® surround sound speaker system with Centerpoint® and AudioPilot® technology

The Mazda CX-5 includes a 3-year subscription to SiriusXM® Traffic and Travel Link on the 2.5 Turbo Signature trim level. This advanced system makes navigating unfamiliar areas a breeze thanks to parking location capabilities. It's great for daily commutes, too, providing real-time traffic and weather information to minimize your commute time.

The Mazda CX-5 and Subaru Forester come with a standard, advanced safety suite. The features of i-Activsense® and Subaru EyeSight® use sophisticated monitoring technology to provide alerts and, when conditions are met, make mild adjustments to speed and/or steering.

While these SUVs share a few features, Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert is only standard with the Mazda CX-5. Additionally, this SUV is the only one to include available Traffic Jam Assist, which reduces driving fatigue during stop-and-go travel.

Traffic Jam Assist works by keeping a safe distance between you and the vehicle ahead. It can bring your Mazda CX-5 to a complete stop and automatically re-engage the throttle when it's safe to continue your commute.