2024 Mazda CX-5 vs 2025 Subaru Outback

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, exclusive Terracotta leather seats, and gloss-black exterior detailing, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. Mazda also introduced improvements such as better fuel economy for the base engine, wireless charging, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in several trims. The CX-5 lineup included 2.5 S and 2.5 Turbo models, with the S offering a 187-horsepower engine and the Turbo providing up to 256 horsepower. Prices ranged from $29,300 to $40,600, plus a destination charge, with the Carbon Turbo test vehicle priced at $39,355.

The 2025 Subaru Outback stood out as one of the few remaining wagons in the U.S., adopting crossover trends with its rugged design elements. The test car's Crimson Red Pearl paint complemented its black leather interior, though earthy shades were preferred. Subaru focused on off-road capabilities, appealing to a niche market, which proved successful for the brand. The Outback's design included features like chunky wheel-arch flares and a robust roof rack, emphasizing its adventurous intent. The Limited trim gained additional features, and the Touring XT trim offered Nappa leather and ventilated front seats. The Outback's interior was well-executed, with a balance of chrome and glossy black plastic, and easy-to-read gauges.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo delivered 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas, or 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft on regular gas. The powertrain was more rewarding with a gradual acceleration approach, though it wasn't fuel-efficient, achieving 24 mpg combined. The CX-5's tall and narrow feel provided excellent visibility, and its re-tuned suspension and standard all-wheel drive offered a smooth ride and responsive handling. The G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced cornering, and the CX-5 was quiet on highways and lively in city driving. It had a ground clearance of 7.9 inches and a towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds.

The 2025 Subaru Outback featured a standard 2.5-liter engine with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, while the XT models had a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. The Lineartronic CVT and standard all-wheel drive provided smooth acceleration, though the turbocharged engine was recommended for better performance. The Outback offered 8.7 inches of ground clearance, with the Wilderness model increasing it to 9.5 inches. The X-Mode system optimized traction on slippery surfaces, and the Outback's soft suspension and powerful brakes ensured a comfortable ride. The CVT was generally unobtrusive, though the stop/start technology was less refined.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offered standard heated front seats, with redesigned seats providing comfort and support. The interior featured leather upholstery on most trims, with Nappa leather on the top-tier Turbo Signature. The CX-5 was snug for four adults, with good rear seat support and amenities like rear air conditioning vents and a center armrest. The cabin's design and quality rivaled luxury brands, though storage space was limited. The cargo area provided 30 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 59.3 cubic feet with them folded.

The 2025 Subaru Outback's wagon shape offered practicality, with easy entry and exit and a low center of gravity for quick direction changes. It provided 32.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seat up and 75.6 cubic feet with it folded. The Outback's total passenger volume of 109 cubic feet surpassed its crossover competition, offering more front headroom and legroom. Buyers were advised to test different trims, as the Wilderness model's features affected driving dynamics. The Outback's towing capacity increased to 3,500 pounds with the turbocharged engine.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 featured traditional switchgear for controls, with a 10.25-inch display offering limited touchscreen functionality. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available on several trims, and the Mazda Connect system was navigated using a console knob. The CX-5 offered Mazda Connected Services, including remote engine starting and a Wi-Fi hotspot. A 10-speaker Bose sound system was standard on the Carbon Turbo trim, enhancing the premium interior experience.

The 2025 Subaru Outback's technology package included an 11.6-inch touchscreen with large icons, though the Starlink infotainment system was slow to respond. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, with wireless connectivity on most trims. The Harman Kardon 12-speaker audio system performed well, though Starlink disturbances affected audio output. The dashboard featured a mix of buttons and knobs, and the Touring trim included a CD player. USB-A and USB-C ports were available for device connectivity.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came equipped with advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered additional safety features like adaptive headlights and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating, though it didn't earn the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation for 2024.

The 2025 Subaru Outback featured EyeSight driver-assist technology, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The DriverFocus system monitored for driver distraction, though it occasionally issued false notifications. The 2025 Outback was expected to perform well in IIHS testing and received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.