Mazda CX 5 vs Subaru Outback – Reliability, Specs & In Snow Test

Lets find out how do CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package AWD compare with Subaru Outback Premium CVT both comes in price range of $35,000.

Performance and Efficiency

• Engine Dynamics: The heartbeat of any vehicle lies in its engine, and both contenders boast robust power plants. The Subaru Outback Premium CVT harnesses a 2.5L H-4 engine, delivering a respectable 182 horsepower at 5800 RPM. Meanwhile, the Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package AWD steps up with a 2.5L I-4 engine, pushing out 187 horsepower at 6000 RPM. The slight power variation can manifest in the driving experience, influencing acceleration and responsiveness.
• Transmission Mastery: The transmission is the conduit through which engine power reaches the wheels. Subaru’s CVT with an 8-speed manual shift mode offers a seamless and adaptable driving experience. On the flip side, Mazda’s 6-speed automatic transmission ensures a smooth ride with precision gear changes. Your preference for a dynamic, adaptable drive or a refined, consistent performance should guide your choice.
• Fuel Efficiency Ballet: Balancing power with efficiency is a delicate dance, and here, the Mazda CX-5 takes a nimble lead. With a combined fuel economy of 25 MPG (23 city / 29 highway), it inches ahead of the Subaru Outback Premium CVT, which manages a competitive 28 MPG combined (26 city / 32 highway). Consider your daily driving patterns and prioritize fuel efficiency if lengthy journeys are in your routine.
• Towing Capabilities: For those with a penchant for adventure or utility, towing capacity becomes a pivotal consideration. The Subaru Outback Premium CVT flexes its muscles with an impressive 2700-pound towing capacity, making it a go-to choice for hauling needs. The Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package AWD, while slightly behind at 2000 pounds, still holds its own for moderate towing requirements.

Read – Mazda CX-30 vs Mazda CX-5 Specs Comparison

Interior & Exterior Comparison

Interior Features:

Subaru Outback Premium CVT:

• Heated Front Bucket Seats with 10-way power driver’s seat.
• STARLINK 11.6″ Multimedia Plus System with a comprehensive array of connectivity features.
• Dual-zone front automatic air conditioning.
• EyeSight Lane Keep Assist and Pre-Collision Braking for enhanced safety.
• Cargo Space Lights and Roll-Up Cargo Cover for convenience.

Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package AWD:

• Heated Front Bucket Seats with 8-way power driver’s seat and 6-way power passenger seat.
• Mazda Connect Infotainment System featuring in-vehicle Wi-Fi and advanced connectivity options.
• Dual-zone front automatic air conditioning.
• Lane Keep Assist System and Advanced Smart City Brake Support for enhanced safety.
• Power liftgate for added convenience.

Read – Mazda CX-5 vs Mazda CX-50 Specs

Exterior Features:

Subaru Outback Premium CVT:

• 17″ x 7J Black Aluminum-Alloy wheels with machine finish.
• Auto On/Off Projector Beam LED headlights.
• Roof rack for additional cargo options.
• Perimeter/Approach Lights and LED Brakelights.
• Eye-catching design with a mix of black accents.

Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package AWD:

• 19″ x 7J Aluminum Alloy wheels with a gray metallic finish.
• Auto On/Off Projector Beam LED headlights with adaptive auto high-beam functionality.
• Power liftgate for easy access to the cargo area.
• Perimeter/Approach Lights and LED Brakelights.
• Sleek and sophisticated design with attention to detail.

Our Conclusion:

While both the Subaru Outback Premium CVT and Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package AWD offer impressive interior features and stylish exteriors, the Mazda CX-5 stands out with its refined design, advanced safety features, and a slightly more powerful engine.

The attention to detail in the CX-5’s exterior design, coupled with its robust performance, positions it as a compelling choice for those seeking a harmonious blend of style, safety, and driving prowess.

Read – 2023 Mazda cx-50 Configurations (All Trims)

Cargo Space Comparison

Subaru Outback Premium CVT:

• Cargo Space/Area Length Behind First Row: 75 inches
• Cargo Space/Area Length Behind Second Row: 42 inches
• Cargo Space/Area Length Behind Third Row: Not Applicable
• Cargo Space/Area Width at Beltline: 45.2 inches
• Cargo Bed Width Between Wheelhousings: 43.3 inches
• Cargo Bed Height: 32.1 inches
• Cargo Space/Area Behind Front Row: 75.6 cubic feet
• Cargo Space/Area Behind Second Row: 32.6 cubic feet
• Cargo Space/Area Behind Third Row: 32.6 cubic feet

Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package AWD:

• Cargo Space/Area Length Behind First Row: Not Available
• Cargo Space/Area Length Behind Second Row: 37.4 inches
• Cargo Space/Area Length Behind Third Row: Not Applicable
• Cargo Space/Area Width at Beltline: 56.9 inches
• Cargo Bed Width Between Wheelhousings: 41.3 inches
• Cargo Bed Height: 32.4 inches
• Cargo Space/Area Behind Front Row: 59.3 cubic feet
• Cargo Space/Area Behind Second Row: 29.1 cubic feet
• Cargo Space/Area Behind Third Row: 29.1 cubic feet

Conclusion: In the cargo space battle, the Subaru Outback Premium CVT takes the lead with its larger cargo area, providing ample room for storage.

However, the Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package AWD holds its ground with a well-utilized space and smart design, making it a practical choice for those seeking a balance between cargo capacity and overall vehicle size.

Choose the Outback for maximum cargo room, or opt for the CX-5 for a more compact yet efficient cargo solution.

Read – 2023 Mazda cx-5 Configurations

Reliability Comparison

Subaru Outback Premium CVT:

• Engine: Equipped with a 2.5L H-4 engine, the Outback boasts 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, delivering a reliable and steady performance.
• Transmission: Paired with a CVT transmission, providing smooth and efficient power delivery, enhancing the vehicle’s overall reliability.
• Safety Features: Awarded a 5/5 overall crash test rating, the Outback demonstrates a commitment to safety, ensuring reliability on the road.

Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package AWD:

• Engine: Powered by a 2.5L I-4 engine, the CX-5 offers a slightly higher horsepower at 187 and torque at 186 lb-ft, delivering a robust and reliable performance.
• Transmission: Comes with an automatic transmission with overdrive, contributing to a reliable and responsive driving experience.
• Safety Features: Like the Outback, the CX-5 also scores an impressive 5/5 overall crash test rating, reflecting its commitment to safety and reliability.

Conclusion: Both the Subaru Outback Premium CVT and Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package AWD showcase reliable engines, transmissions, and top-notch safety features.

Choosing between them comes down to personal preferences, driving preferences, and the specific features that matter most to you.

Whether you opt for the Outback’s proven stability or the CX-5’s robust performance, rest assured that both vehicles prioritize reliability on every journey.

Read – Mazda CX-5 vs CX-50 2024 Dimensions, Price, Cargo Space & Reviews

Which one is more suitable for snow areas?

Both the Subaru Outback Premium CVT and Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package AWD are great choices for snowy areas.

The Subaru Outback has an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system that provides solid traction on snowy roads, and its X-MODE with Hill Descent Control (HDC) adds extra help on steep descents. Subaru vehicles typically have good ground clearance, which is useful in deep snow.

The Mazda CX-5 also has an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system that ensures good traction and stability on snowy surfaces.

Mazda’s i-ACTIV AWD system adjusts power to the wheels for optimal performance in different weather conditions.

Both cars are reliable in the snow, so the best choice depends on your personal preferences and the specific snowy conditions in your area.

Safety Features Comparison: Subaru Outback Premium CVT vs. Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package AWD

Both the Subaru Outback Premium CVT and Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package AWD prioritize safety with advanced features.

The Subaru includes EyeSight technology for lane centering and pre-collision braking, earning a 5/5 crash rating.

The Mazda offers i-ACTIVSENSE with features like blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning, also achieving a 5/5 crash rating. Both vehicles are committed to ensuring a safe driving experience for occupants.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Subaru Outback Premium CVT and Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium Package AWD present compelling options, each with its unique strengths.

The Subaru excels in cargo space, fuel efficiency, and a robust AWD system, making it an ideal choice for practicality and outdoor enthusiasts.

On the other hand, the Mazda CX-5 shines with its sleek design, sophisticated interior, and advanced safety features, emphasizing a more luxurious driving experience.

For those seeking a versatile and spacious vehicle tailored for outdoor adventures, the Subaru Outback is a top contender.

However, if you prioritize a refined interior, cutting-edge safety technologies, and a stylish design, the Mazda CX-5 stands out as an excellent choice.