2021 Subaru Outback vs 2021 Mazda CX-5

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 was a departure from the sharply creased designs of many automakers, opting instead for a smooth and sleek appearance that exuded a sense of motion even when stationary. While it didn't boast a flashy design, it took Mazda's signature style in a more refined direction. The exterior differences among the CX-5's trim levels were subtle, with the base Sport model featuring automatic LED headlights, 17-inch wheels, and rain-sensing wipers. As buyers moved up the trim ladder, they found additional features like leatherette seats, dual-zone climate control, and advanced lighting systems that enhanced both style and functionality.

In contrast, the 2021 Subaru Outback maintained a familiar and comfortable design, reminiscent of its predecessors. While the exterior styling remained understated, the interior saw improvements, especially in higher trims. The base model's dual 7-inch touchscreens were replaced by a more modern 11.6-inch display in Premium and above trims, offering a more polished look. The Outback's interior quality was a significant step up from earlier models, with higher trims featuring two-tone leather upholstery and contrast stitching. The Onyx Edition XT added a touch of adventure with its durable StarTex upholstery and lime green accents, while the exterior's gray cladding and chrome flourishes provided a balanced and stable appearance.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options, both paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produced 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, providing adequate performance for daily driving. For those seeking more power, the turbocharged 2.5-liter engine delivered 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, offering a more spirited driving experience. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available. The CX-5's fuel efficiency varied depending on the drivetrain and engine choice, with the most efficient model achieving 25 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. The turbocharged engine, while powerful, was slightly less fuel-efficient.

The 2021 Subaru Outback's base engine was a 2.5-liter flat-four producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This combination struggled with the Outback's weight, resulting in sluggish acceleration. However, the XT models offered a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, significantly improving performance. The Outback's fuel economy was competitive, with the base engine achieving 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, while the turbocharged engine managed 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. The Outback's handling was more focused on comfort, with its high ground clearance and advanced all-wheel-drive system providing excellent off-road capability.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 provided a comfortable and stylish interior, though rear legroom was somewhat limited. The SUV featured two full LATCH connections for child seats and straightforward climate controls. However, the larger shifter and infotainment controls took up valuable space, and the cargo area was smaller than many competitors, offering 30.9 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 59.6 cubic feet with them folded.

The 2021 Subaru Outback excelled in interior space, offering 76 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 33 cubic feet with them raised. The cabin was spacious, with ample headroom and legroom for all passengers. The Outback's visibility was excellent, and it featured clever storage solutions, including integrated roof rails with crossbars. However, some features like push-button start and rear climate vents were only available on higher trims, and the infotainment system's large touchscreen complicated some controls.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 came standard with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, but its operating system was not as user-friendly as some competitors. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, the lack of physical knobs for tuning and volume control was a drawback. The screen's positioning made it difficult for shorter drivers to reach, and the overall design felt outdated.

The 2021 Subaru Outback's infotainment system also felt dated, with graphics reminiscent of older gaming consoles. However, it offered modern features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the optional navigation system was more visually appealing. Subaru EyeSight, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist, was standard across all trims, though its reliance on cameras rather than radar limited its effectiveness in certain conditions.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. Optional features included a head-up display and a surround-view camera system, though the traffic sign recognition system was not always reliable.

The 2021 Subaru Outback featured a strong and stiff chassis, with standard driver aids like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. It was a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS and received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Additional safety features were available on higher trims, including blind-spot monitoring and rear emergency braking.