2025 Subaru Forester vs 2025 Mazda CX-90

The 2025 Subaru Forester underwent a noticeable visual transformation, focusing on a more generic yet refined appearance. It featured standard roof rails and 17-inch alloy wheels, with higher trims offering larger wheels and distinctive accents. The Forester Sport, for instance, showcased bronze trim accents, while the Touring trim boasted chrome badging and a low-profile roof rack. Inside, the Forester's cabin was redesigned with a more intentional look, featuring structural dash elements and various upholstery options, including the easy-to-clean StarTex material in the Sport trim. The interior was designed to be practical and user-friendly, with a focus on comfort and functionality.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90, on the other hand, exuded a luxury SUV vibe with its lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels. Its sculptural sheet metal and athletic stance contributed to a premium look. Inside, the CX-90's interior was elegantly crafted with Nappa leather, polished metallic trim, and clearly marked switchgear. However, some ergonomic issues, such as a confusing electronic shifter and counterintuitive climate controls, detracted from the overall experience. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-90's interior maintained a sophisticated ambiance, offering a blend of style and comfort.

The 2025 Subaru Forester featured a 2.5-liter Boxer four-cylinder engine, producing 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain was paired with a Lineartonic continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, both standard across all trims. The Forester's performance was characterized by a smooth and fluid steering feel, providing confidence on various terrains. The X-Mode system, standard from the Premium trim, enhanced stability and traction on challenging surfaces. Fuel economy was rated at 26 mpg city, 33 highway, and 29 combined, with slight variations for Sport and Touring trims.

In contrast, the 2025 Mazda CX-90 offered a turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six engine, generating 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque in the 3.3 Turbo models. The 3.3 Turbo S variant delivered 319 hp and 369 lb-ft, with an option for 340 hp using premium gas. Power was channeled through an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard AWD system, with a rear-wheel bias for improved dynamics. The CX-90's performance was marred by drivetrain refinement issues, including unpredictable power delivery and transmission behavior. Fuel economy was rated at 25 mpg combined, with observed figures of 21.3 mpg during testing. Despite these challenges, the CX-90 excelled in ride and handling, offering a firm and communicative driving experience.

The 2025 Subaru Forester introduced a hands-free power liftgate, enhancing convenience for loading and unloading. Cargo space increased slightly, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 74.4 cubic feet with them folded down. The Forester's cargo area featured eight heavy-duty hooks, providing practicality for various needs. While the Forester's cargo volume was competitive, it prioritized a roomy second row, offering comfort for passengers. Interior features included a dark headliner, power-adjustable seats, and heated options, enhancing comfort and usability.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90, in 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus trim, offered Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain's chairs. However, the climate control system struggled to cool the cabin efficiently. The CX-90's interior featured a panoramic sunroof, providing ample natural light, and comfortable seating for second-row passengers. The third row was best suited for children, with limited space for adults on longer trips. Cargo space measured 14.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 40 cubic feet with it folded down, and a maximum of 74.2 cubic feet with the second row flattened.

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, along with dual USB-A and USB-C ports, a wireless charging pad, and Wi-Fi hotspot capability. The Touring trim featured a voice-activated navigation system and an 11-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. Subaru's Starlink connected services suite offered additional capabilities, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. While the infotainment screen was touch-sensitive for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the native Mazda Connect platform required using a knob and buttons. The CX-90's voice recognition system fell short of modern expectations, but a new Google Built-in infotainment system was anticipated for future models. The test vehicle included a 12-speaker Bose audio system and a head-up display, providing a rewarding listening experience and helpful driving information.

The 2025 Subaru Forester offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Subaru's EyeSight technology with enhancements for 2025. Emergency Stop Assist was available on the Touring trim, providing additional safety measures. While crash-test ratings for the 2025 model were not yet available, the 2024 Forester received high marks from both the IIHS and NHTSA, indicating strong safety performance.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings in NHTSA crash tests for the PHEV model. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and more. Higher trims added advanced features like steering assist, emergency lane-keeping assist, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-90's driver aids generally met expectations, though some features, like speed reduction, could be improved.