2023 Subaru Outback vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Subaru Outback underwent a facelift, featuring a new front end with redesigned LED headlights, a restyled grille, and a revised bumper with dark gray vertical cladding. This design gave the Outback a more aggressive appearance, especially with the addition of a jutting simulated skid plate, fog lights in oversized housings, and asymmetrical wheel arch trim reminiscent of the Wilderness model. The Onyx Edition, with its black wheels and trim, complemented the bold cladding, making it a more appealing choice for those who preferred a darker paint color to tone down the design's excesses. The Outback's interior, particularly in the Touring trim, was praised for its upscale feel, with Java Brown leather contrasting beautifully against the black interior, and light gray stitching adding a touch of elegance.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its design from the second-generation model introduced in 2017, which had aged well and continued to look modern and appealing. The new Carbon Turbo trim featured Zircon Sand paint and exclusive Terracotta leather seats, adding a touch of sophistication. Mazda's attention to detail was evident in the gloss-black exterior detailing and the premium interior materials. The CX-5's cabin was described as upscale, with a design and quality that elevated it above most mass-market rivals. Despite being a compact crossover, the CX-5 offered a comfortable and snug interior for four adults, with thoughtful touches like padded sides on the center console and soft front seatback material.

The 2023 Subaru Outback was equipped with horizontally opposed engines, known for their flat design, which helped reduce the vehicle's center of gravity. The standard engine produced 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, but the Outback felt underpowered, especially when passing or climbing. The turbocharged XT models offered a more satisfying 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, though at the cost of fuel efficiency. The Outback's CVT was programmed to mimic an eight-speed automatic, and the Active Torque Split AWD system provided excellent off-road capabilities. However, the standard engine's lack of power and disappointing fuel economy were notable drawbacks.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo, on the other hand, delivered 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas. The powertrain was more rewarding when driven with a steady foot, allowing the torque to build. However, the CX-5's fuel efficiency was unimpressive, with an observed 22.9 mpg. The CX-5's suspension was re-tuned for a smoother ride, and the G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced cornering. The CX-5 offered a quiet ride on the highway and lively handling in the city, with a decent 7.9 inches of ground clearance for off-road trails.

The 2023 Subaru Outback prioritized utility with features like a robust roof rack and flat door sill trim. The Touring trim offered a comfortable interior with 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and premium Nappa leather upholstery. The Outback provided ample cargo space, with 32.6 cubic feet behind the back seat and 75.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. However, wind noise on the highway and limited practical storage space were minor drawbacks.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offered standard heated front seats, with leather upholstery on all trims except the base. The interior was comfortable for four adults, though snug, with thoughtful features like rear air conditioning vents and a center armrest with cupholders. The CX-5's cabin design and quality were likened to a luxury-branded vehicle. Cargo space was slightly limited, with 30 cubic feet behind the back seat and 59.3 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2023 Subaru Outback featured a Starlink 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on higher trims. The system was improved for 2023, though the graphics and voice recognition were criticized. Additional tech included a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree front-view camera, though a surround-view camera was absent.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 eschewed touchscreens in favor of traditional controls, though it allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 10.25-inch display was navigated using a console-mounted knob, with quick access buttons for main functions. Mazda Connected Services offered remote engine starting and a Wi-Fi hotspot. A 10-speaker Bose premium sound system was standard on the Carbon Turbo trim.

The 2023 Subaru Outback was equipped with EyeSight cameras and an electronic brake booster, earning top safety marks from the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered additional features like a Wide-Angle Mono Camera for better pedestrian detection.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came with a comprehensive suite of ADAS, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, though it did not earn a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS for 2024.