2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid vs 2026 Mazda CX-5

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid continued the evolutionary design improvements that Subaru had been implementing since the model's inception. The third-generation Crosstrek maintained its attractive appearance, with subtle updates that included a frameless grille and aerodynamic enhancements around the wheel arches. Inside, the Crosstrek Hybrid offered a balance of rugged utility and refined comfort, featuring durable materials and thoughtful design elements like orange contrast stitching on the seats and chrome-trimmed power window switches. The cabin's straightforward design prioritized function, with soft-touch surfaces in key areas and a heated steering wheel in the Limited Hybrid trim.

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 was praised for its striking design, which was enhanced by the evolved Kodo design language. The vehicle featured a sculpted and purposeful appearance, with a Signature Wing grille and new LED headlights. The interior of the CX-5 was noted for its high-quality materials and clean dashboard design, with a prominent central touchscreen and a driver-focused cockpit. The dimensional improvements provided more interior space, making it comfortable for taller passengers. However, the presence of hard plastics in certain areas slightly detracted from the otherwise upscale feel.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid came equipped with a 2.5-liter engine paired with a 118-hp traction motor, resulting in a total system output of 194 horsepower. This made it the fastest Crosstrek to date, with improved acceleration and smoother performance compared to the gas-only version. The hybrid system utilized two motor-generators for engine start/stop functions and regenerative braking. Despite recording 31 miles per gallon during testing, which was below the EPA estimate, the Crosstrek Hybrid offered better off-road capability with its mechanical AWD system and X-Mode traction management.

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 was powered by a SkyActiv-G 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. However, the engine felt underpowered for the vehicle's weight, resulting in a 0-60 time of 9.6 seconds, which was slower than its competitors. The six-speed automatic transmission was smooth but lacked responsiveness. Despite the lack of power, the CX-5 excelled in handling, with direct steering and well-managed body roll. The ride quality was comfortable, and the improved insulation reduced road noise. The EPA rated the CX-5 at 24 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 26 combined mpg.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid offered improved cargo space compared to previous iterations, with 18.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 50.6 cubic feet with the rear row folded. The gas tank remained at 16.6 gallons, allowing for an impressive range. Rear-seat space was generous, with 36.7 inches of legroom, surpassing competitors like the Corolla Cross Hybrid. However, front storage was limited, with a small tray and cupholders.

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 benefited from dimensional growth, resulting in a more spacious interior. The wheelbase stretch improved rear knee clearance, and rear headroom was class-leading at 40.2 inches. Cargo space increased to 38 cubic feet behind the second row and 70 cubic feet with the seats folded. The CX-5 featured practical touches like a hands-free power liftgate and a flat load floor. However, towing capacity decreased to 1,500 pounds, trailing behind competitors like the Tucson and Sportage.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid came with an 11.6-inch touchscreen, but the infotainment system was criticized for its slow software and reliance on touchscreen controls. While wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, the system's shortcomings were evident. The Limited Hybrid trim included a Harman Kardon stereo and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, but the navigation map couldn't display Google Maps.

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 featured a significant infotainment upgrade, with a 12.9-inch touchscreen on most trims and a 15.6-inch unit on the Premium Plus. The system included Google built-in, offering native Google Maps, a voice assistant, and app downloads. However, the digital instrument cluster lacked key information, and the absence of a physical volume knob was a drawback. Higher trims added features like a Bose audio system and a 360-degree View Monitor.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid included Subaru's EyeSight ADAS, with features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. However, it lacked a semi-autonomous driving system. The 2025 model received mixed safety ratings, with a five-star overall rating from NHTSA but no Top Safety Pick designation from IIHS.

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 offered a comprehensive standard safety suite, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitors. The Premium Plus trim added advanced features like a semi-autonomous highway driving system and a 360-degree View Monitor. While crash test results were pending, the outgoing model had a strong safety track record.