2025 Mazda CX-5 vs. 2025 Subaru Forester Comparison

With over a dozen models to choose from, there’s no shortage of choices when it comes to compact SUVs. Standing out from the pack can be a challenge in this popular segment, yet the 2025 Mazda CX-5 and 2025 Subaru Forester are able to do just that. Both of these 2-row/5-passenger compact SUVs bring the kind of traits buyers are seeking — practicality, value, and excellent safety and technology — yet each also excels in its own way.

Here’s how the Mazda CX-5 and Subaru Forester compare to each other.

2025 Mazda CX-5

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 is practical, affordable, and efficient. In other words, it hits the key notes shoppers in this segment are seeking. Yet the Mazda CX-5 is also among the most fun-to-drive vehicles in its class. Even with the base 187-horsepower 4-cylinder engine, this Mazda is more invigorating than you might expect. If you opt for the turbocharged CX-5 with up to 256 hp, this SUV becomes just plain quick. We also like that the Mazda uses a traditional geared transmission versus the continuously variable transmission (CVT) in the Subaru.

All CX-5 models come with a long list of standard features, including all-wheel drive (AWD) and driver assist features like adaptive cruise control. This year sees the return of the base S trim, which means an even more approachable starting price.

Mazda CX-5 Highlights 

Standard all-wheel drive: Mazda is among the few automakers whose lineup of SUVs comes standard with all-wheel drive. Of course, the Subaru Forester also brings this to the table.

Premium design: The CX-5 is stylish inside and out. Its exterior is curvy and athletic, and Mazda continues to create some of the most eye-popping paint colors we’ve ever seen on a mainstream brand. Inside, the Mazda’s fine build quality and premium materials make this feel like a more expensive vehicle.

Turbo engine: If you’re buying a Mazda CX-5 for its athletic nature and really want to make the most of its excellent chassis, consider opting for this upgrade engine. The Forester offers no such performance upgrade.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the CX-5 models for sale near you. 

2025 Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester has long been the easy answer for adventurous individuals and families seeking a rugged compact SUV. It has the features Subaru fans have enjoyed for decades — standard all-wheel drive, ample ground clearance, and top safety marks — along with an outdoorsy appeal and lots of cargo room for all the gear.

The Forester is all new for 2025, so it brings all those goods along with the latest tech and safety features. For this all-new generation, Subaru is also introducing the first-ever Forester Hybrid for those seeking improved fuel economy.

Subaru Forester Highlights

Standard all-wheel drive: Yes, the Mazda now has this, too, but this has been in Subaru’s DNA for decades, and it works terrifically well in the Forester.

Cargo space galore: The Subaru Forester has among the roomiest cargo areas in its class, reaching up to 74.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. That easily outdoes the CX-5’s capacity of 59.3 cubic feet.

Adventurous attitude: A Subaru Forester is more than your ordinary, commuter-minded SUV. The Subaru brand and adventure are intertwined. These vehicles are built to get you beyond the reach of the hustle and bustle, and the Forester is known and loved for doing exactly that. Where the Mazda CX-5 is more sporty and athletic, the Forester loves to seek out trails.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Forester models for sale near you. 

Similarities

Both of these compact SUVs have similar horsepower and starting prices, and each comes standard with all-wheel drive — a nice perk among compact SUVs.

Pricing

The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2025 MAZDA CX-5 vehicles and New 2025 Subaru Forester vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.

Specifications

	2025 Mazda CX-5	2025 Subaru Forester
Popular Powertrains
Engine	2.5-liter 4-cylinder	2.5-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower	187 hp @ 6,000 rpm	180 hp @ 5,800 rpm
Torque	185 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm	178 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm
Transmission	6-speed automatic	CVT
Fuel economy	24 mpg city/30 mpg highway/26 mpg combined	26 mpg city/33 mpg highway/29 mpg combined
Also Available	Turbo 2.5-liter 4-cyl.	Hybrid
Specs
Basic Warranty	3 years/36,000 miles	3 years/36,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	5 years/60,000 miles	5 years/60,000 miles
NHTSA Overall Safety	5-Star	5-Star
Max Seating Capacity	5	5
Wheelbase	106.2 inches	105.1 inches
Overall Length	180.1 inches	183.3 inches
Width	72.6 inches	72.0 inches
Height	66.1 inches	68.1 inches
Turning Diameter	36.0 feet	35.4 feet
Headroom, Front	39.7 inches	41.2 inches
Headroom, 2nd Row	39.0 inches	39.6 inches
Legroom, Front	41.0 inches	43.3 inches
Legroom, 2nd Row	39.6 inches	39.4 inches
Shoulder Room, Front	57.1 inches	57.7 inches
Shoulder Room, 2nd Row	54.8 inches	56.7 inches
Cargo Volume seats up/down	30.0 / 59.3 cubic feet	28.9 / 74.2 cubic feet

Conclusion

Do you want an SUV that is more athletic and sporty, which also offers a higher-performance turbo engine? It’s hard to go wrong with the Mazda CX-5. Or do you see yourself as more adventurous and want an SUV that isn’t just afraid to get dirty, but enjoys it? In that case, the Subaru Forester is more likely to fit the bill. The good news is, these are both highly recommendable and well-regarded compact SUVs. Test drive both and see which fits feels right for your lifestyle.