2023 Subaru Outback vs 2024 Mazda CX-50

The 2023 Subaru Outback underwent a significant 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 an aggressive appearance, further enhanced by 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, especially in the Touring trim, was praised for its upscale feel, with Java Brown leather and contrasting stitching creating a cohesive and luxurious environment. Despite some hard plastic elements, the interior did not feel cheap, although the large infotainment screen and gloss black trim were prone to collecting dust and smudges.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-50 presented a more rugged design compared to its sibling, the CX-5. It was lower, wider, and longer, with a stretched wheelbase, square wheel arches, and fake air vents below the headlights and taillights. The CX-50 was available in eight trim levels, with the Meridian Edition emphasizing an active-lifestyle image through all-terrain tires, a black hood graphic, and pronounced rocker-panel trim. The interior featured an earthy color palette and Terracotta leather upholstery, with a pleasing design and impressive material quality for a non-luxury brand. However, the CX-50's interior did not fully meet Mazda's upscale aspirations, with standard half-leatherette seats and manually-adjustable front seats on base models reminding consumers of Mazda's traditional market position.

The 2023 Subaru Outback was equipped with horizontally opposed engines, known for their flat design and characteristic grumble. The standard engine produced 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, but the 3,781-pound vehicle often 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 and a higher price. All Outback models featured a CVT that mimicked an eight-speed automatic and came with standard AWD, enhancing their off-road capabilities with an X-Mode traction system and hill descent control. The Outback excelled in off-road conditions and city driving, but the standard engine's lack of power and fuel economy were notable drawbacks.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 shared its powertrains with the CX-5, offering a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with turbocharging on higher trims. The base engine delivered 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, while the turbo version offered up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. A six-speed automatic transmission and AWD were standard, with various driving modes available. The CX-50 was a competent daily driver but lacked the sporty driving dynamics of the CX-5. The Meridian Edition's all-terrain tires added noise and reduced grip, and the roof platform contributed to wind noise at highway speeds. Overall, the CX-50 was well-mannered but did not inspire spirited driving.

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 power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated front seats wrapped in premium Nappa leather. The Outback provided ample legroom and cargo space, with 32.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 75.6 cubic feet with them folded. The vehicle's height made entry and exit easy, and the cargo area was practical for various needs. However, more practical storage space in the cabin would have been beneficial.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 offered similar passenger space to the CX-5, with slightly less headroom but more legroom. It provided 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 56.3 cubic feet with them folded, trailing most competitors in cargo capacity. The available power liftgate improved cargo access, but the area was not ideal for dirty or bulky items. The interior layout was sensible, with adequate storage space despite a substantial shifter and rotary infotainment controller on the center console. The CX-50's interior materials were not as durable as expected for the Meridian Edition's rugged image.

The 2023 Subaru Outback featured a Starlink 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system on all but the Base trim, with physical controls for essential functions. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, and optional navigation and premium audio. While improved, the Starlink system's graphics and voice recognition were lacking. Additional tech included a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree front-view camera, though a surround-view camera was unavailable.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 came with a 10.25-inch infotainment screen controlled by a rotary controller and buttons, offering wireless Apple CarPlay but requiring a cable for Android Auto. Higher trims added wireless charging, satellite radio, and a Bose audio system. The interface required adjustment but was easy to use without taking eyes off the road. The system felt dated, with basic functions and plain graphics, appealing to those who preferred simplicity over excessive tech.

The 2023 Subaru Outback was highly rated for safety, with new EyeSight cameras and an electronic brake booster enhancing pedestrian, cyclist, and automatic steering functions. It earned top marks from the IIHS, including in the new side-impact crash test. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist, with additional features available on higher trims. The Outback's safety tech was effective but could feel intrusive.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was named a 2023 Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. However, it received lower scores for nighttime pedestrian detection and standard headlights. NHTSA ratings were incomplete, but the CX-50 had strong frontal and rollover crash-test ratings. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, with optional rear automatic braking and a 360-degree camera system.