2025 Mazda CX-5 vs 2025 Subaru Forester

The 2025 Subaru Forester underwent a noticeable visual transformation, focusing on practicality and capability. It featured standard roof rails and 17-inch alloy wheels, with a more generic design that smoothed out its previous rugged look. The Sport trim introduced bronze accents, enhancing its mature appearance, while the Touring trim boasted 19-inch wheels and chrome badging. The interior offered a more intentional design, with StarTex material in the Sport trim and genuine leather in higher trims, creating a refined cabin atmosphere.

In contrast, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 maintained its reputation as one of the most attractive small SUVs, with graceful curves and a design that stood the test of time. Its interior impressed with high-quality materials and a blend of analog and digital elements. While it lacked a large touchscreen, the physical controls provided excellent usability. The CX-5's design was reminiscent of entry-level luxury SUVs, offering a special feel compared to its competitors.

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 standard Symmetrical AWD. The Forester's X-Mode system, standard from the Premium trim, enhanced stability and traction on challenging terrain. Despite its modest acceleration, the Forester excelled in off-road conditions, offering a smooth and confident driving experience. Its fuel economy was rated at 26 mpg city, 33 highway, and 29 combined.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a base 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged version with 256 hp and 320 lb-ft. Both engines paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The turbo model accelerated quickly, making it one of the faster choices in its class. The CX-5's sporty dynamics provided a confident and engaging drive, though its firmer ride quality was noticeable on rough surfaces. The cabin remained quiet, enhancing long-distance comfort.

The 2025 Subaru Forester introduced a hands-free power liftgate, increasing cargo space to 29.6 cubic feet with seats up and 74.4 cubic feet with them folded. It offered a roomy second row, though it lagged slightly behind competitors like the Toyota RAV4 in cargo capacity. The interior featured a dark headliner and power-adjustable seats, with heated and ventilated options in higher trims.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 provided 30.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 58.1 cubic feet with them folded. While its cargo area was wide and flat, it fell short compared to rivals like the CR-V and Sportage. The interior offered moderate storage for personal items, with a wireless charging pad available in midlevel trims. The power liftgate was standard on most trims, enhancing convenience.

The 2025 Subaru Forester introduced an 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus infotainment system, standard on all but the base trim, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims included navigation, a Harman Kardon sound system, and Subaru’s Starlink connected services with new capabilities like Valet Mode and Remote Vehicle Configuration.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 came with a 10.25-inch infotainment display controlled via a center console dial. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, with wireless capability in higher trims. The system's logical menus and control dial made it easy to operate. A head-up display was standard in upper trims, and a 10-speaker Bose system was available in the Signature model.

The 2025 Subaru Forester featured Subaru’s EyeSight suite with enhancements like a wider field of view and an electric brake booster. Emergency Stop Assist was available on the Touring trim, along with a digital rearview mirror and reverse automatic braking. While crash-test ratings were pending, the 2024 model received high marks from IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 earned five stars from NHTSA in most evaluations and a "Good" rating from IIHS for the 2024 model. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added advanced features like adaptive headlights and a driver attention monitor, with all systems performing reliably during testing.