2020 Mazda CX-5 vs 2020 Subaru Outback

The 2020 Subaru Outback maintained its reputation for utility, safety, and performance, with a focus on incremental improvements. Built on Subaru’s Global Platform, it boasted a 70% increase in structural rigidity. The base 2.5-liter engine, though seemingly unchanged, featured 90% new parts, while higher trims offered a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine. Externally, changes were subtle, with noticeable updates to the head- and taillights. Inside, the Outback introduced an 11.6-inch touchscreen for most trims, with dual 7-inch screens for the base model. The innovative DriverFocus system, typically seen in luxury brands, used facial recognition to adjust settings and alert distracted drivers. The Outback was available in seven trims, starting at $26,645, with a range of features and options, including safety systems like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 aimed to deliver a premium experience with captivating style and substance. It featured more standard equipment, improved cabin aesthetics, and reduced noise and vibration. The turbocharged engine offered increased torque, and AWD models gained off-road traction assistance. Prices ranged from $25,190 to $37,155 across five trims. The Signature trim, tested with extra-cost paint and a rear bumper guard, highlighted Mazda’s commitment to luxury with Nappa leather and real wood accents. Despite its upscale appeal, the Caturra Brown leather interior lacked contrast. The CX-5’s design, rooted in Mazda’s “Kodo” styling, remained distinctive and upscale, setting it apart from competitors.

The 2020 Subaru Outback featured an upgraded 2.5-liter engine with 182 horsepower, a 7-hp increase from 2019, and improved fuel efficiency at 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. The 2.4-liter turbocharged engine in XT trims delivered 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in about 7 seconds. Both engines were paired with a CVT, tuned to mimic a traditional automatic transmission. Subaru’s symmetrical AWD system provided consistent power delivery and stability, with 8.7 inches of ground clearance for off-road capability. The Outback’s design ensured less wear on components and better weight balance, though it wasn’t suited for extreme off-roading.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 offered a standard 2.5-liter engine with 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. FWD was standard, with AWD optional. The turbocharged engine in higher trims produced 250 hp and 320 lb-ft on premium fuel, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular. Despite a 3,825-pound curb weight, the turbocharged CX-5 accelerated confidently. The naturally aspirated engine achieved 28 mpg combined with FWD, while the turbo engine managed 24 mpg combined. G-Vectoring Control Plus enhanced driving dynamics, though excessive body motions detracted from the driving experience. The steering and brakes were responsive, making the CX-5 enjoyable in typical driving situations.

The 2020 Subaru Outback offered the functional benefits of a station wagon, with 32.5 cubic feet of trunk space, expanding to 75.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The interior was spacious, accommodating taller passengers comfortably. The design prioritized visibility, though the rear quarters had a notable blind spot. Subaru’s focus on proportion resulted in a vehicle that appeared smaller from the outside, yet offered ample interior space.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5, while stylish and upscale, had a more cramped interior compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The Touring trim added comfort features, while the Signature trim offered luxury touches like Nappa leather and genuine wood. The front seats were comfortable, but rear legroom was limited. Cargo space measured 30.9 cubic feet, expanding to 59.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. A power liftgate was standard on higher trims, enhancing convenience.

The 2020 Subaru Outback featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen, appealing to tech enthusiasts. While the screen was large and easy to navigate, it suffered from lag across various functions, including navigation and volume control. The camera resolution was also lacking, detracting from the overall experience. Despite these issues, the system had potential for improvement.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5’s Mazda Connect infotainment system, inspired by luxury brands, offered a premium feel but required acclimation. The Sport trim had a 7-inch touchscreen, while higher trims featured an 8-inch screen with additional features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose sound system. The system could be controlled via touchscreen, console controls, or voice recognition, though none were ideal. Future updates aimed to address these issues, but operational challenges persisted.

The 2020 Subaru Outback’s safety features were a mixed bag. While the standard safety suite impressed, the DriverFocus system was problematic, frequently issuing false alerts. Subaru’s EyeSight system, though standard, could be obstructed by environmental factors, leading to temporary deactivation. Despite these issues, the Outback maintained a strong commitment to safety.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with standard i-Activsense ADAS features like adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. It also had standard LED headlights and rain-sensing wipers. The CX-5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, demonstrating its strong safety performance.