2023 Subaru Forester vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Subaru Forester maintained its familiar, utilitarian design, reminiscent of its predecessors over the past two decades. Despite its unassuming appearance, especially in the Cascade Green Silica paint, the Forester offered a practical and functional aesthetic. The Touring trim, priced at $37,720, featured 18-inch alloy wheels and satin chrome exterior trim, enhancing its visual appeal. Inside, the Forester Touring boasted Saddle Brown leather, metallic accents, and a traditional Subaru design with analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen. While the interior was busy with a mix of materials, the layout was user-friendly, emphasizing buttons and knobs for easy operation.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its sleek and modern design, which had aged gracefully since its 2017 debut. The new Carbon Turbo trim, priced at $39,355, featured Zircon Sand paint and Terracotta leather seats, adding a touch of exclusivity. Mazda's attention to detail was evident in the gloss-black exterior detailing and premium interior materials. The CX-5's cabin exuded an upscale feel, with a focus on comfort and quality. Despite its compact size, the CX-5 offered a sophisticated driving experience, blending style with practicality.

The 2023 Subaru Forester was equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT featured eight programmed ratios and a Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-Drive) system with a Sport mode for enhanced responsiveness. Most trims included an X-Mode off-road traction management system, offering various driving modes for different terrains. The Forester Touring demonstrated impressive driving dynamics, with light and accurate steering, effective brakes, and excellent suspension tuning. However, the engine's performance was merely adequate, and the Forester returned 25.9 mpg, falling short of its EPA rating.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo, on the other hand, offered a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 256 hp on premium gas and 227 hp on regular gas. With 320 lb-ft of torque, the CX-5 provided a smooth and powerful driving experience. Despite its impressive power, the CX-5's fuel economy was less than stellar, achieving 22.9 mpg during testing. The CX-5's driving dynamics were refined, with a smooth ride, responsive handling, and excellent outward visibility. The G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced cornering, making the CX-5 a joy to drive on twisty roads.

The 2023 Subaru Forester prioritized function over form, offering a practical and spacious interior. The Premium trim included features like a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable driver's seat, and heated front seats. Higher trims offered leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control. The Forester's high seating position and large windows provided excellent visibility, while the cargo area offered 26.9 cubic feet of space, expandable to 69.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5, while smaller in interior space, provided a comfortable and luxurious cabin. Heated front seats were standard, with leather upholstery available on higher trims. The rear seat offered good support and amenities like rear air vents and a fold-down armrest. The CX-5's cargo area provided 30 cubic feet of space, expandable to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The cabin's design and quality elevated the CX-5 above many of its competitors.

The 2023 Subaru Forester featured a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims offered an 8-inch display with navigation and a Harman Kardon audio system. While the interface was user-friendly, the voice-recognition system was lacking, making smartphone integration essential.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 eschewed touchscreens in favor of traditional controls, with a 10.25-inch display for infotainment. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available with wireless connectivity on several trims. The system was intuitive, with a large knob and buttons for navigation. Mazda Connected Services offered remote features and a Wi-Fi hotspot, while a Bose sound system enhanced the audio experience.

The 2023 Subaru Forester introduced an updated EyeSight system with improved cameras and software. It included features like adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring and rear automatic braking. The Forester earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came standard with a comprehensive suite of ADAS, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered additional features like adaptive headlights and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, though it did not earn a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS in 2024.