2023 Subaru Outback vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 underwent a series of subtle but effective changes that tweaked its exterior appeal. The SUV featured new LED headlights and taillights, which brought in a more distinctive illumination compared to previous models. The revamped front and rear bumpers, along with a redesigned grille and rear liftgate, further modernized its look, though the new alloy wheel designs left some wishing for a bit more flair. The high-end Signature trim aimed to feel more premium with its body-color lower exterior trim.

Inside, the CX-5 retained its classy interior design. Luxurious touches like Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents continued to elevate its appeal, especially in the Signature trim. Additionally, Mazda introduced new seats designed for improved passenger comfort, which made a noticeable difference compared to older models.

However, Mazda complicated the trim levels by introducing a CX-5 2.5 S and a CX-5 2.5 Turbo. The main difference was under the hood: a naturally aspirated engine for the 2.5 S and a turbocharged engine for the 2.5 Turbo. Customers also faced a wide range of configurations—from the base model starting at $25,900 to the top-end 2.5 Turbo Signature priced at around $38,650.

On the flip side, the 2023 Subaru Outback received a notable facelift that made it appear more rugged. The new front end included redesigned LED headlights and a restyled grille. Dark gray vertical cladding on the bumper gave the impression of large air intakes at each corner, while a simulated skid plate added to its adventurous appeal. The wheel arch trim recalled the Wilderness model, adding an aggressive touch.

Consumers could hide these bold design elements with a dark paint color or embrace them with the Onyx Edition, which had black wheels and trim to complement the cladding. The Onyx Edition was available with both the base and turbocharged powertrains, making it budget-friendly at a starting price of $33,495 for the non-turbo version.

Depending on the trim, buyers had a range of options from the Base model at $28,395 up to fully loaded versions like the Limited or Touring, which cost upwards of $39,845. The Outback’s interior, especially in the Touring trim, impressed with Java Brown premium Nappa leather, complimented by contrasting dashboard and door panel stitching. Despite some hard plastic materials, the Outback maintained an upscale feel. One downside, however, was the easily smudged large infotainment screen and center console.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered two distinct engine choices. The 2.5 S model housed a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generating 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive (AWD), it provided a respectable driving experience with an EPA rating of 26 mpg in combined driving. For those seeking more grunt, the 2.5 Turbo variant was the way to go. When fueled with premium gas, this turbocharged engine produced 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque (or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft with regular fuel). Though the EPA-rated fuel economy for the 2.5 Turbo stood at 24 mpg combined, real-world tests often saw figures closer to 21.1 mpg.

Both turbo models benefited from Mazda’s Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) with Normal, Sport, and Off-Road modes. Enhanced structural rigidity and updated suspension tuning resulted in a quieter, smoother ride while maintaining Mazda’s sporty driving characteristics. The 2022 CX-5 delivered agility, significantly reduced body roll, and better overall driving dynamics, making it a strong competitor even against entry-level luxury SUVs.

Subaru took a different approach with the 2023 Outback, offering horizontally opposed engines known as boxer types. The base engine, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder flat engine, delivered 182 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 176 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. Despite the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) making the most of this power at lower speeds, passing and climbing remained challenging. The EPA estimated 28 mpg in combined driving, but actual performance hovered around 25.6 mpg.

To counter the base engine's shortcomings, Subaru provided the turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four engine cranking out 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque in the XT models. While more powerful, these variants had slightly reduced fuel efficiency, generally returning 25 mpg combined (23 mpg for the higher-riding Wilderness trim).

Both engines paired with a CVT, which Subaru programmed to mimic an eight-speed traditional automatic transmission, complete with paddle shifters. Active Torque Split AWD came standard, as did the X-Mode traction system and hill descent control, providing 8.7 inches of ground clearance or 9.5 inches in the Wilderness variant.

The Outback shone off-road, handling challenging terrain with ease and offering impressive visibility and maneuverability in urban settings. The base engine’s performance felt lackluster, especially on freeways or at elevation, but the suspension provided excellent ride quality and handling.

Mazda made substantial improvements to the 2022 CX-5’s interior. Previous complaints about flinty ride and uncomfortable seats were addressed with new furnishings, offering enhanced comfort and support. The driving position felt sportier and more natural, and all but the base trim featured a height-adjustable front passenger seat—a rarity in this segment.

Our 2.5 Turbo test vehicle had dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. However, the rear seat area remained snug, with heated outboard cushions and air conditioning vents available to enhance passenger comfort.

Storage solutions within the CX-5 were somewhat limited. The center armrest bin was small, though a wireless smartphone charging tray was a helpful addition. Cargo space measured 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the seats folded down—decent for an entry-level luxury SUV but less impressive against mainstream compact crossovers.

In contrast, the 2023 Subaru Outback prioritized utility without sacrificing comfort. Our Touring model featured a 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with manual thigh support, an eight-way power-adjustable front passenger seat, heating and ventilation for both front seats, and premium Nappa leather upholstery. The rear outboard seats were heated as well.

The Outback provided ample room for passengers during long trips, and the high ground clearance made entry and exit convenient. Its cargo space was more generous than the CX-5’s, with 32.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 75.6 cubic feet with the seats folded.

Subaru's flat, textured plastic door sills acted as practical steps supporting access to the roof rack. However, additional practical storage space within the vehicle, such as extra trays or cubbies, could have been beneficial.

Regarding technology, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 stuck with a 10.25-inch Mazda Connect infotainment system, operated via controls on the center console and steering wheel rather than a touchscreen. While this setup reduced tactile distraction, it did require a learning curve for new users. The absence of natural voice recognition meant consumers would rely heavily on Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for hands-free operations. Mazda also provided a generous three-year trial subscription to its connected services, apart from WiFi access.

Starting with the 2.5 S Premium trim, every CX-5 came with a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system, praised for its adequate performance. Despite the tech shortfalls, the inclusion of standard features like text-messaging support and E911 emergency notification helped bridge the gap.

Meanwhile, the 2023 Subaru Outback offered a standard Starlink 11.6-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen infotainment system from the Premium trim upwards. Physical controls for volume, tuning, and climate systems remained, while the rest was embedded into the touchscreen, including seat heating and ventilation buttons.

The base Outback’s 7-inch screen included wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the larger system offered wireless connectivity from the Premium trim onwards. Subaru’s Starlink connected services, navigation, and Harman Kardon premium audio system were available depending on the trim level. The wireless charging pad was an additional dealer-installed accessory.

Despite improvements in usability, the Starlink system’s graphics and colorful icons were still off-putting. The voice-recognition system was subpar, failing most crucial commands during tests. Additional technologies such as a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree front-view camera rounded out the package, though frustrations with some features persisted.

Mazda equipped the 2022 CX-5 with an extensive i-Activsense safety suite. Features included adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert as standard. The 2.5 S Premium trim added adaptive headlights, while the 2.5 Turbo Signature boasted a surround-view camera system, front and rear parking sensors, automatic rear braking, and driver monitoring.

i-Activsense performed optimally, though sudden braking in moderate traffic was noticeable. A head-up display showed blind-spot warnings, limiting the need to divert attention from the road. The CX-5 earned a “Top Safety Pick+” rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), cementing its reputation as one of the safest in its class.

Not to be outdone, the 2023 Subaru Outback also featured a robust set of safety technologies. EyeSight cameras and an electronic brake booster supported new pedestrian, cyclist, and automatic steering functions. EyeSight standards included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centering assist in the Base model. Optional packages and higher trims offered blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and a new Automatic Emergency Steering system.

Higher trims like the Limited and Touring added a third Wide-Angle Mono Camera for better pedestrian and cyclist detection. Certain adaptive cruise and lane-centering features could be distracting due to their artificial steering feel. The rear automatic braking system had its quirks when interacting with certain driveways but proved useful in other scenarios. Like the CX-5, the Outback earned top safety ratings from the IIHS, including high marks in the new side-impact crash test.