2025 Subaru Forester vs 2024 Mazda CX-50

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was a more rugged alternative to the CX-5, with a design that emphasized its broad-shouldered proportions. It was 1.4 inches lower, 3 inches wider, and 5.7 inches longer than the CX-5, with a 4.6-inch wheelbase stretch. The CX-50 featured square wheel arches and fake air vents, giving it a fresh look compared to the older CX-5. Available in eight trim levels, the CX-50 offered a range of styling options, though differences between trims were subtle. The 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition, which we tested, enhanced the active-lifestyle image with all-terrain tires, a black hood graphic, and more pronounced rocker-panel trim. The interior boasted a pleasing design with high-quality materials, though it fell short of Mazda's upscale aspirations.

The 2025 Subaru Forester, traditionally known for its practicality over aesthetics, received a notable styling update. It featured standard roof rails and 17-inch alloy wheels, with a more generic look that smoothed out its previous design. The Forester Sport trim, which we tested, included bronze trim accents and 19-inch wheels, adding a mature touch. The interior maintained the large-greenhouse shape, with geometric wheel arches and a more decisive window shape. The cabin offered a more intentional design, with cloth upholstery on the base model and StarTex material on the Sport trim. Higher trims featured genuine leather seating, and the overall interior design was attractive and functional.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, with turbocharging available on higher trims. The base engine produced 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, while the turbocharged version delivered 256 hp and 320 lb-ft on 93-octane fuel. All models came with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The CX-50 offered Normal, Sport, and Off-road driving modes, with a Towing mode on turbo models, increasing towing capacity to 3,500 pounds. While the CX-50 shared powertrains with the CX-5, it offered a different driving experience, focusing more on comfort than sporty dynamics. The Meridian Edition's all-terrain tires added noise and limited grip, making it less ideal for everyday driving.

The 2025 Subaru Forester featured a 2.5-liter Boxer four-cylinder engine, producing 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. It came with a Lineartonic CVT and Subaru's Symmetrical AWD system. The Forester's X-Mode system, standard from the Premium trim, enhanced stability and traction on challenging terrain. The Forester Sport trim offered a dual-function X-Mode, providing confidence on various surfaces. While acceleration was modest, the Forester impressed with its smooth steering and stability. Fuel economy was rated at 26 mpg city, 33 highway, and 29 combined, with a slight decrease for Sport and Touring trims. A hybrid version was anticipated but not yet available.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 offered similar passenger space to the CX-5, with slightly less headroom and more legroom. It provided 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 56.3 cubic feet with them folded. While it trailed competitors in cargo space, it offered a power liftgate for easier access. The interior featured a sensible layout with adequate storage, though the Meridian Edition lacked more durable materials for its rugged image.

The 2025 Subaru Forester introduced a hands-free power liftgate, increasing cargo space to 29.6 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 74.4 cubic feet with them folded. The cargo area included eight heavy-duty hooks, and the interior featured a dark headliner to resist marks. The Premium trim offered a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, with additional features on higher trims. The Forester provided a roomy second row, though it fell slightly short in cargo space compared to some competitors.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 came with a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, operated via a rotary controller. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, but Android Auto required a cable. Higher trims offered wireless charging, SiriusXM, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The system's interface was dated, but it provided basic functions without overwhelming tech-savvy buyers.

The 2025 Subaru Forester introduced an 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus infotainment system, standard on all but the base trim. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with dual USB-A and USB-C ports, a wireless charging pad, and Wi-Fi hotspot capability. The Touring trim featured a navigation system and an 11-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. Subaru's Starlink connected services suite offered additional capabilities for 2025.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. It offered standard driver-assist features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included rear automatic braking and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2025 Subaru Forester introduced Emergency Stop Assist, available on the Touring trim. It featured Subaru's EyeSight suite of driver-assistance technology, with enhancements for 2025. The Forester was too new for crash-test ratings, but the 2024 model received high marks from the IIHS and NHTSA.