Mazda Cx-50 vs Outback: Which Suv Reigns Supreme?
Choosing your next vehicle can feel overwhelming, especially with so many excellent options on the market. If you’re looking for a versatile SUV that can handle both daily commutes and weekend adventures, the Mazda CX-50 and Subaru Outback are likely on your radar. Both offer a compelling blend of practicality, capability, and style, but which one is the better fit for you?
The Mazda CX-50, a relatively new entrant, brings a sporty design and a focus on driver engagement. It aims to deliver a more dynamic driving experience compared to its rivals. On the other hand, the Subaru Outback has a long-standing reputation for ruggedness and reliability, making it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.
This comprehensive comparison of the Mazda CX-50 vs Outback will delve into their key differences, examining their performance, features, interior comfort, and overall value. We’ll explore which SUV excels in each area, helping you make an informed decision and ultimately choose the vehicle that best suits your needs and lifestyle. Get ready to discover which of these two impressive SUVs comes out on top!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | CX-50 | Outback |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L I4 / Turbo 2.5L I4 | 2.5L I4 / Turbo 2.4L I4 |
| Horsepower | 187-256 hp | 182-260 hp |
| Torque | 186-320 lb-ft | 176-277 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic | CVT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 24-25 / 30-31 mpg | 26-29 / 32-33 mpg |
| Cargo Space (Behind Rear Seats) | 31.4-31.9 cu. ft. | 32.6-32.5 cu. ft. |
| Infotainment Screen | 10.25-inch | 7-11.6-inch |
| Ground Clearance | 8.3-8.6 inches | 8.7-9.5 inches |
| Standard Safety Features | Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control | EyeSight Driver Assist Technology |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Warranty (Basic) | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Performance & Handling
- Mazda Cx 50: Offers a choice of naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines, delivering spirited performance and engaging handling. The ride can be firm, and the turbo engine requires premium fuel.
- Outback: Features a standard naturally aspirated engine and an optional turbocharged engine, providing a comfortable ride and all-weather capability thanks to standard all-wheel drive. The base engine can feel underpowered.
- Winner: CX-50
Fuel Economy
- Mazda Cx 50: Generally offers competitive fuel economy, especially with the base engine. Fuel economy can be lower with the turbocharged engine.
- Outback: Provides decent fuel economy for its class, with the base engine being more efficient. The turbocharged engine has lower fuel economy.
- Winner: Outback
Interior Space & Comfort
- Mazda Cx 50: Offers a stylish and well-appointed interior, but rear passenger space and cargo capacity are somewhat limited compared to the Outback. Seats are comfortable.
- Outback: Provides a spacious interior with ample rear legroom and generous cargo capacity. The seats are comfortable, and the ride is generally smooth.
- Winner: Outback
Infotainment & Technology
- Mazda Cx 50: Features a user-friendly infotainment system with a central display. Tech features are modern, but some controls can be distracting.
- Outback: Boasts a large touchscreen infotainment system and a suite of advanced driver-assistance features. The screen can be slow to respond at times.
- Winner: Outback
Safety Features
- Mazda Cx 50: Comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including advanced driver-assistance systems. Safety ratings are generally very good.
- Outback: Also includes a strong array of standard safety features, including Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist technology. Excellent safety ratings.
- Winner: Outback
Off-Road Capability
- Mazda Cx 50: Designed with a focus on sporty on-road driving, though it has decent ground clearance and some off-road ability. Not as capable as the Outback.
- Outback: Offers standard all-wheel drive and a rugged design, making it well-suited for light off-roading and all-weather driving.
- Winner: Outback
Price & Value
- Mazda Cx 50: Generally positioned in a competitive price range, offering good value for its features and performance. Premium trim levels can become expensive.
- Outback: Offers a strong value proposition, with a spacious interior and a wide range of standard features for the price.
- Winner: Outback
Styling & Design
- Mazda Cx 50: Features a sleek and modern design with a premium feel. The exterior has a more sporty and rugged look.
- Outback: Presents a more utilitarian and rugged design, with a focus on practicality and functionality.
- Winner: CX-50
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Driving Experience | Mazda CX-50 |
| Cargo Space | Outback |
| Off-Road Capability | Outback |
| Interior Design | Mazda CX-50 |
| Fuel Efficiency | Outback |
What They Have in Common
- All-Wheel Drive: Both the Mazda CX-50 and the Subaru Outback come standard with all-wheel drive, providing enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions. This feature is a key selling point for both vehicles, particularly for those who frequently drive in areas with inclement weather or off-road conditions.
- Seating Capacity: Both SUVs offer comfortable seating for up to five passengers, making them suitable for families or individuals who frequently transport passengers. The interior space is well-utilized in both vehicles, providing ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear occupants.
- Safety Features: Both vehicles are equipped with a suite of advanced safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control, to help drivers stay safe on the road. These features contribute to a safer driving experience.
- Fuel Efficiency: Both SUVs offer competitive fuel efficiency within their respective classes, making them relatively economical to operate. While specific numbers vary depending on the engine and driving conditions, both vehicles are designed to provide a balance between performance and fuel economy.
- Warranty: Both the Mazda CX-50 and Subaru Outback come with a similar basic warranty, providing owners with peace of mind. This warranty covers various aspects of the vehicle, ensuring that owners can address any potential issues without incurring significant costs.
Mazda Cx 50 Vs Outback Buying Guide
Performance and Handling
The Mazda CX-50 and Subaru Outback offer distinct driving experiences. The CX-50 prioritizes a sporty feel with responsive steering and a more engaging driving position, making it enjoyable on winding roads. Its available turbocharged engine provides brisk acceleration. The Outback, on the other hand, focuses on comfort and off-road capability. Its standard all-wheel drive and higher ground clearance excel in challenging terrains and adverse weather. The Outback’s softer suspension absorbs bumps effectively, making it ideal for long journeys. Consider your driving preferences: sporty dynamics or off-road prowess.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the CX-50 boasts a more driver-focused cockpit with premium materials and a sleek design, creating a refined atmosphere. Its infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use. The Outback, while also offering a comfortable interior, prioritizes practicality with generous passenger and cargo space, especially in the back seat. Its upright design enhances visibility. Both vehicles offer a range of features, including advanced driver-assistance systems. The Outback’s focus on space makes it great for families.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel economy is an important factor for many buyers. The Mazda CX-50 typically offers slightly better fuel efficiency compared to the Subaru Outback, especially with its base engine. The Outback’s heavier weight and standard all-wheel drive can impact its fuel consumption. However, the difference is not substantial. Consider your daily driving needs and the price of fuel in your area. Both vehicles provide competitive fuel economy within the compact SUV segment.
Off-Road Capability
The Subaru Outback is renowned for its off-road capabilities, thanks to its standard all-wheel drive system, higher ground clearance, and available off-road-oriented trim levels. It handles rough terrain and challenging conditions with ease. The Mazda CX-50 offers some off-road ability, particularly with its available Meridian Edition, but it is not as capable as the Outback. If you frequently drive on unpaved roads or encounter challenging weather conditions, the Outback is the clear choice.
Safety Features
Both the Mazda CX-50 and the Subaru Outback are equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. They both offer advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. However, the Outback often receives higher safety ratings and offers some unique features, such as Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist technology. Research the specific safety features and ratings for each model to determine which best suits your needs.
Price and Value
The Mazda CX-50 generally has a lower starting price compared to the Subaru Outback. However, the price difference can vary depending on the trim levels and options. Consider the features and capabilities you need and compare the overall value offered by each vehicle. The Outback offers more standard features and off-road capability for its price. Factor in long-term ownership costs, including maintenance and potential resale value, when making your decision. Consider your budget and priorities.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Mazda CX-50 If…
- You prioritize a more engaging driving experience with responsive handling.
- You appreciate a more premium interior design and materials.
- You desire a vehicle with a slightly more rugged and adventurous aesthetic.
- You prefer a vehicle with a traditional automatic transmission.
Buy Outback If…
- You need a vehicle with more cargo space and practicality.
- You value superior off-road capability and ground clearance.
- You prioritize a comfortable and spacious interior for passengers.
- You prefer a vehicle with a reputation for long-term reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences in performance?
The Mazda CX-50 offers a sportier driving experience with responsive handling and a turbocharged engine option. The Subaru Outback prioritizes off-road capability with standard all-wheel drive and higher ground clearance, excelling in challenging terrains. The CX-50 is more agile on paved roads, while the Outback is designed for adventure and rough conditions.
Which car offers a more comfortable interior?
Both vehicles offer comfortable interiors, but with different focuses. The CX-50 prioritizes a driver-focused cockpit with premium materials and a sleek design. The Outback emphasizes practicality with more passenger and cargo space, making it better for families. The choice depends on your preference for a sporty or spacious cabin.
Is the Outback better for off-roading?
Yes, the Subaru Outback is significantly better for off-roading. Its standard all-wheel drive, higher ground clearance, and available off-road-oriented trims provide superior capability on unpaved roads and in challenging weather conditions. The CX-50 offers some off-road ability, but it is not as capable. The Outback is built for adventure.
What about fuel efficiency?
The Mazda CX-50 typically offers slightly better fuel efficiency, especially with its base engine. The Outback’s heavier weight and standard all-wheel drive can impact its fuel consumption. The difference is not substantial. Consider your driving habits and fuel costs when making a decision on fuel economy. Both are competitive.
Which car has more advanced safety features?
Both models offer advanced safety features. The Outback often receives higher safety ratings and features Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist technology. Both cars have systems like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Check specific safety ratings and features for the most up-to-date comparison. Both are very safe vehicles.
How do the prices compare?
The Mazda CX-50 generally has a lower starting price. However, the price difference can vary based on trim levels and options. Compare the features, capabilities, and overall value to determine which best fits your budget. Consider long-term costs. The Outback may offer more standard features for its price.
Which car is better for families?
The Subaru Outback is generally better for families due to its larger passenger and cargo space, and its more practical design. The Outback offers more rear legroom and cargo capacity, making it easier to transport passengers and gear. The CX-50, while still capable, prioritizes a sportier feel and may not be as spacious.
Final Verdict
Both the Mazda CX-50 and the Subaru Outback are excellent vehicles, each catering to different preferences. The CX-50 excels in sporty driving dynamics and a premium interior, while the Outback shines with its off-road capability, spaciousness, and practicality. For those prioritizing adventure and family-friendliness, the Outback is the better choice.
Winner: Subaru Outback