2024 Mazda CX-5 vs 2025 Subaru Forester

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its familiar design from the second-generation model introduced in 2017, maintaining a modern and appealing look. The new Carbon Turbo trim featured Zircon Sand paint and exclusive Terracotta leather seats, enhancing its stylish appearance. Mazda improved fuel economy for the base engine, added wireless charging, and integrated wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in several trims. The CX-5 lineup included 2.5 S and 2.5 Turbo models, with prices ranging from $29,300 to $40,600, plus destination charges. The interior upgrades over the years resulted in an upscale feel at a mainstream price.

The 2025 Subaru Forester focused on practicality and capability, with significant visual updates. It featured standard roof rails, 17” alloy wheels, and steering-responsive LED headlights. The Forester Sport trim showcased bronze accents and 19-inch wheels, while the Touring trim included a low-profile roof rack and chrome badging. The interior offered a more intentional design, with StarTex material in the Sport trim and genuine leather in Limited and Touring trims. The cabin improvements provided a more refined look, enhancing the overall appeal of the Forester.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo delivered 256 hp with premium gas and 227 hp with regular gas, offering a rewarding driving experience with its turbocharged 2.5-liter engine. Despite its power, the CX-5 was not fuel-efficient, with an EPA rating of 24 mpg combined. The vehicle's tall and narrow feel, excellent visibility, and sophisticated handling made it easy to maneuver. Mazda's suspension and AWD improvements contributed to a smooth ride and lively handling, with a towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds.

The 2025 Subaru Forester featured a 2.5-liter Boxer engine producing 180 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT and standard AWD. The Forester's X-Mode system and Hill Descent Control enhanced stability on challenging terrain. While acceleration was modest, the Forester excelled in off-road conditions, offering a stable and confident ride. The EPA rated the Forester at 29 mpg combined, with slightly lower figures for Sport and Touring trims. The Forester's performance was reliable, with improvements in noise reduction and handling.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offered comfortable heated front seats with power adjustments and premium materials, including Nappa leather in the Turbo Signature trim. The interior, though snug, provided good support and amenities for passengers. The cargo area offered 30 cubic feet with seats up and 59.3 cubic feet with seats down, slightly less than competitors but sufficient for family trips.

The 2025 Subaru Forester introduced a hands-free power liftgate and increased cargo space to 29.6 cubic feet with seats up and 74.4 cubic feet with seats down. The roomy second row and practical design made it competitive in its class. The interior featured a dark headliner and power-adjustable seats, with ventilation and heating options in higher trims, enhancing comfort and functionality.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 featured a non-touchscreen infotainment system with traditional controls, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in select trims. The 10.25-inch display was navigated via a console knob, with Mazda Connected Services providing remote features and a premium Bose sound system in higher trims.

The 2025 Subaru Forester introduced an 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus system with wireless smartphone integration, standard on all but the base trim. The Touring trim included navigation and an 11-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. Subaru's Starlink services offered additional capabilities, enhancing the Forester's tech offerings.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came equipped with essential ADAS features, including adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims offered additional safety technologies like adaptive headlights and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from NHTSA, though it missed the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation for 2024.

The 2025 Subaru Forester featured Subaru's EyeSight suite with enhancements for 2025, including a wider field of view and electric brake booster. Emergency Stop Assist was available on the Touring trim. While crash-test ratings were pending, the 2024 model's high safety scores suggested strong performance for the new Forester.