2022 Mazda CX-30 vs 2021 Subaru Forester

CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Subaru Forester as 7 out of 10 and the 2022 Mazda CX-30 as 10 out of 10 for look and feel.

The Forester's styling, largely carried over from the previous generation, features a boxy, upright shape that appeals to many SUV shoppers. The Sport trim level adds orange striping, a rear spoiler, and black 18-inch alloy wheels, enhancing its appearance. The interior, available with cloth or leather upholstery, is designed for durability and practicality.

The CX-30 boasts the look and styling of a downsized CX-5, with an elegant and refined design. It offers various trim levels with different features, including alloy wheels, climate control, and premium upholstery. The interior design is considered one of the best among affordable cars, with a blend of conventional and digital displays.

CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Subaru Forester 6 out of 10 and the 2022 Mazda CX-30 8 out of 10 for performance.

The Forester is equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). It offers standard all-wheel drive (AWD) and a respectable 8.7 inches of ground clearance, suitable for light off-road adventures.

The CX-30 features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. Additionally, a turbocharged engine option is available, delivering 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It offers a sporty and refined ride with well-weighted steering and precise handling.

CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Subaru Forester 8 out of 10 and the 2022 Mazda CX-30 7 out of 10 for form and function.

The Forester offers above-average headroom and legroom in both rows, a generous cargo space of 35.4 cubic feet with the rear seats up, and 76.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The interior is designed for practicality, with large knobs for audio and climate control.

The CX-30 provides up to 45.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 20.2 cubic feet with the rear seats in use. The front seats feature a sliding center console cover, and the rear seats offer solid headroom, making it a comfortable and practical choice.

CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Subaru Forester 7 out of 10 and the 2022 Mazda CX-30 6 out of 10 for technology.

The Forester's standard Subaru Starlink infotainment system includes a 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. It also features a secondary screen in the instrument cluster and a driver-monitoring system called DriverFocus.

The CX-30's infotainment system is controlled by a rotary dial/joystick in the center console, with toggle buttons. It offers features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a head-up display. However, the system has been criticized for its usability and lack of touch functionality.

CarGurus experts rate both the 2021 Subaru Forester and the 2022 Mazda CX-30 9 out of 10 for safety.

The Forester received the highest “Top Safety Pick+” award from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It comes standard with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist features, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning.

The CX-30 earned five out of five stars in NHTSA testing and the highest Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS. It offers standard driver-assistance features such as forward collision avoidance, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control.