Choosing the perfect SUV can be a tough decision, especially when comparing two top contenders like the 2025 CX-5 and the 2025 Subaru Forester. Both are popular choices for those in the market for a reliable, feature-packed SUV. However, depending on your preferences, one of these vehicles may better suit your lifestyle. Read on for a comprehensive breakdown of how the 2025 CX-5 and 2025 Subaru Forester compare in key categories such as performance, comfort, technology, and design.
For drivers seeking a blend of performance and precision, the CX-5 delivers. It offers two engine options: a standard 2.5-liter engine with 187 horsepower and an available turbocharged 2.5-liter engine boasting up to 256 horsepower. This provides a dynamic driving experience with smooth acceleration and responsive handling. Paired with Mazda’s signature “Jinba Ittai” philosophy—focused on connecting the driver and car—the CX-5’s handling makes every drive enjoyable. Whether navigating through city streets or on winding roads, this SUV stands out for its agility and sporty performance.
The Subaru Forester, equipped with a 2.5-liter engine delivering 182 horsepower, leans more toward practicality than excitement. It comes with a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) focused on efficiency rather than spirited driving. While stable and reliable on the road, the Forester doesn’t offer the same thrilling, fun-to-drive experience as the CX-5. However, if you’re frequently off the beaten path, Subaru’s standard all-wheel drive and X-MODE, which optimizes traction in rough conditions, make the Forester a great choice for adventurous drivers.
For drivers looking for a smooth, responsive drive with a touch of thrill, the CX-5 is the clear winner. The Forester excels in off-road conditions, but for daily driving, the CX-5’s power and precision offer a more enjoyable experience.
Step inside the CX-5, and you’ll immediately notice the upscale materials and craftsmanship. The interior features leather-trimmed seats, available real wood accents, and a refined design, providing a near-luxury feel. Comfort is a top priority, with options like heated and ventilated seats and dual-zone climate control ensuring that every passenger enjoys the ride. The cabin is also impressively quiet, thanks to advanced sound insulation, making it ideal for long trips or commutes.
The Forester’s interior is designed with practicality in mind. It offers a spacious and durable cabin, perfect for drivers who need ample cargo space and rugged materials. While the Forester focuses on functionality, it lacks the premium touches found in the CX-5. The Forester’s interior is more about durability than luxury, making it great for families or outdoor enthusiasts but less appealing for those seeking a high-end feel.
If you prioritize comfort, luxury, and an upscale driving experience, the CX-5 offers a far more premium interior. The Forester’s interior is spacious and practical but not as refined.
The CX-5 leads with a modern 10.25-inch infotainment screen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring easy connectivity on the go. The system is intuitive and user-friendly, making it easy to navigate through apps, make calls, or play music. Mazda’s available head-up display projects important information like speed and navigation directions directly onto the windshield for added convenience. Additionally, the CX-5 comes with a full suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist.
The Forester also offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but its tech focuses more on practicality than luxury. Subaru’s infotainment system is easy to use but lacks some of the high-end features available in the CX-5. The Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist system is comprehensive, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and pre-collision braking, but the overall tech experience feels less refined compared to the CX-5’s premium touchpoints.
The CX-5 offers a more polished tech experience with a larger infotainment screen and advanced features, making it the better choice for tech-savvy drivers who value luxury. The Forester’s technology suite is functional and focused more on safety.
Mazda is known for its striking designs, and the CX-5 is no exception. With Mazda’s Kodo design language, the CX-5 is sleek and elegant, featuring bold lines, a sporty stance, and a modern grille. Its exterior design strikes a perfect balance between style and function, making it an eye-catching choice for drivers who appreciate aesthetics. Features like available LED headlights and 19-inch wheels further enhance its premium look.
In contrast, the Subaru Forester’s design is more rugged and utilitarian. It’s built for function over form, with a boxier shape and higher ground clearance that make it perfect for outdoor adventures. While it’s not as stylish as the CX-5, the Forester’s design appeals to those who prioritize practicality and off-road capability.
If you’re looking for a sleek, sophisticated SUV that looks great in any setting, the CX-5 is the obvious choice. The Forester’s design is more practical for adventure seekers but doesn’t offer the same visual appeal.
The CX-5 is equipped with Mazda’s i-Activsense safety suite, which includes features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. These systems work together to ensure that you and your passengers are safe on the road, providing both confidence and convenience in a variety of driving conditions.
The Subaru Forester is also well-equipped when it comes to safety. It comes standard with Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and pre-collision braking. In addition to its impressive safety features, the Forester’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and X-MODE enhance its capability on slippery or rough surfaces, making it a reliable option for all-weather driving.
Both SUVs offer excellent safety features, with each providing comprehensive driver-assist systems. The CX-5 offers a slightly more refined experience, while the Forester stands out for its off-road safety enhancements.
The CX-5 offers competitive fuel efficiency for a compact SUV, especially with its standard engine. It achieves an EPA-estimated 24 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway, providing a good balance between power and efficiency. The available turbocharged engine offers slightly lower fuel efficiency but makes up for it with enhanced performance.
The Forester delivers slightly better fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 26 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway. Its focus on efficiency, combined with standard all-wheel drive, makes it a practical choice for drivers looking to save on fuel without sacrificing capability.
For drivers prioritizing fuel efficiency, the Forester offers a slight edge. However, if performance is more important, the CX-5’s fuel economy is still competitive while delivering a more powerful engine option.
The CX-5 is priced competitively for a compact SUV, offering tremendous value considering its upscale interior, advanced features, and dynamic driving performance. It feels like a more expensive vehicle than it is, making it an excellent choice for those who want luxury without breaking the bank.
The Subaru Forester is similarly priced but focuses more on practicality and off-road capability. It offers great value for drivers who need a rugged, all-weather vehicle but doesn’t provide the same premium experience as the CX-5.
Both vehicles offer strong value, but the CX-5 provides more premium features and a luxury experience for a comparable price, making it the better overall value.