Choosing your next SUV can feel overwhelming. With so many options, how do you know which one is the perfect fit for your lifestyle? This comparison dives deep into two popular contenders: the Subaru Outback and the Mazda CX-5.
We’ll explore their strengths and weaknesses, helping you make an informed decision. The Outback offers rugged capability and spaciousness, while the CX-5 prioritizes driving dynamics and premium features. Both are excellent choices, but cater to different priorities.
This comprehensive guide breaks down everything from performance and fuel efficiency to interior comfort and tech features. You’ll discover which SUV aligns best with your needs and budget. Get ready to find out which vehicle comes out on top in our Outback vs CX-5 showdown!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Outback | CX-5 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L 4-cylinder / Turbo 2.4L 4-cylinder | 2.5L 4-cylinder / Turbo 2.5L 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower (base) | 182 hp | 187 hp |
| Transmission | CVT | 6-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD/AWD |
| Fuel Economy (City/Hwy) | 26/32 mpg | 26/31 mpg |
| Cargo Space (Behind Rear Seats) | 32.6 cu. ft. | 30.8 cu. ft. |
| Infotainment Screen | 11.6-inch touchscreen | 10.25-inch touchscreen |
| Standard Safety Features | EyeSight Driver Assist Technology | i-Activsense |
| Ground Clearance | 8.7 inches | 7.9 inches |
| Towing Capacity | 2,700 lbs (base) / 3,500 lbs (turbo) | 2,000 lbs |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Warranty (Basic) | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Price
- Outback: Generally, the Outback offers a slightly higher starting price compared to the CX-5, reflecting its larger size and standard all-wheel drive. However, higher trims can significantly increase the price. Consider the overall value proposition across trims.
- Cx 5: The CX-5 often presents a more affordable entry point, making it attractive to budget-conscious buyers. However, higher trims with more features can rival the Outback’s pricing. Evaluate the trim levels carefully.
- Winner: CX-5
Fuel Economy
- Outback: Outback offers competitive fuel economy, especially with its base engine. The turbo engine, however, can impact fuel efficiency. Consider your driving habits and engine choice.
- Cx 5: The CX-5 typically boasts slightly better fuel economy, particularly in city driving, thanks to its smaller engine options. This can translate to savings over time.
- Winner: CX-5
Cargo Space
- Outback: The Outback provides ample cargo space, thanks to its wagon-like design, making it suitable for families and carrying larger items. The rear seats fold down for even more capacity.
- Cx 5: The CX-5 offers a respectable amount of cargo space, though it’s somewhat less than the Outback. Consider whether you need maximum cargo capacity regularly.
- Winner: Outback
Safety Features
- Outback: The Outback is known for its excellent safety ratings and standard advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), including Subaru’s EyeSight suite. This can provide enhanced peace of mind.
- Cx 5: The CX-5 also prioritizes safety, offering a comprehensive suite of ADAS features. Both vehicles excel in this area, making them top choices for safety-conscious buyers.
- Winner: Tie
Performance and Handling
- Outback: The Outback’s available turbo engine provides brisk acceleration, but the base engine offers adequate power. Its ride is comfortable, and it handles well for its size.
- Cx 5: The CX-5 is often praised for its sporty handling and responsive steering, making it a joy to drive. Its engine provides a good balance of power and efficiency.
- Winner: CX-5
Infotainment System
- Outback: The Outback offers a user-friendly infotainment system, often with a large touchscreen. The system generally provides a modern and intuitive experience.
- Cx 5: The CX-5 features a well-designed infotainment system with a rotary dial controller, which some prefer over touchscreens. It’s generally easy to navigate.
- Winner: Tie
Interior Quality
- Outback: The Outback offers a well-built interior with good materials, though some higher-end CX-5 trims may have a slight edge in refinement. Consider your preference for interior aesthetics.
- Cx 5: The CX-5 is known for its upscale interior, especially in higher trims, with premium materials and a stylish design. This can enhance the overall driving experience.
- Winner: CX-5
Off-Road Capability
- Outback: The Outback, with its standard all-wheel drive and higher ground clearance, excels in off-road situations, making it suitable for light trails and handling inclement weather.
- Cx 5: The CX-5 offers all-wheel drive as an option, but its ground clearance is lower than the Outback’s, limiting its off-road capabilities. It is better suited for on-road use.
- Winner: Outback
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Cargo Space | Outback |
| Off-Road Capability | Outback |
| Driving Dynamics | CX-5 |
| Interior Quality | CX-5 |
| Fuel Economy (Base Engine) | CX-5 |
What They Have in Common
- Seating Capacity: Both the Outback and the CX-5 comfortably seat up to five passengers, making them suitable for families or individuals who frequently transport passengers.
- Standard Safety Features: Both vehicles come equipped with a suite of standard safety features designed to enhance driver awareness and help prevent accidents, including features like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning.
- Infotainment Systems: Both models offer modern infotainment systems with touchscreen displays, providing access to features like smartphone integration and navigation.
- Engine Options: Both the Outback and CX-5 offer multiple engine options including a base naturally aspirated engine and a more powerful turbocharged engine for enhanced performance.
- All-Wheel Drive Availability: Both vehicles offer all-wheel drive, providing improved traction and handling in various driving conditions, including inclement weather.
Outback Vs Cx 5 Buying Guide
Performance and Handling
The Subaru Outback typically offers a more robust performance profile, especially in its higher trims with turbocharged engines. It excels in off-road capabilities and provides a comfortable ride suitable for various terrains due to its standard all-wheel drive. The Mazda CX-5, on the other hand, prioritizes a sporty driving experience. Its responsive steering and precise handling make it a joy to drive on paved roads, offering a more engaging feel. The CX-5’s engine options provide sufficient power for daily driving. Consider your driving needs and preferred driving style when deciding between these two.
Interior Comfort and Features
Both vehicles provide comfortable interiors, but they differ in their approach. The Outback often boasts a more spacious cabin, especially in terms of rear passenger legroom and cargo capacity, making it a practical choice for families. It offers a user-friendly infotainment system and a variety of driver-assistance features. The CX-5 prioritizes a premium feel with a stylish and well-crafted interior, using higher-quality materials. It features a sleek design and intuitive controls. Choose based on your preference for space or luxurious design elements. (See Also: Yamaha P125 Vs P145 )
Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs
Fuel efficiency is an important factor. The Mazda CX-5 frequently edges out the Subaru Outback in terms of fuel economy, particularly in city driving. Its smaller engine options contribute to better gas mileage. However, the Outback’s fuel economy is still quite competitive, and its larger fuel tank can sometimes translate to fewer refueling stops on long trips. Consider your typical driving conditions and fuel prices when evaluating running costs. Maintenance costs are generally similar between the two, but specific needs vary.
Safety Features and Technology
Both the Outback and the CX-5 are packed with advanced safety features. Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist technology is standard on most Outback models, providing a comprehensive suite of safety features. The Mazda CX-5 also offers a range of safety systems, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking, all standard. Both vehicles consistently receive high safety ratings from organizations like the IIHS. Evaluate the specific safety features offered by each model year and trim level.
Cargo Space and Practicality
For those prioritizing cargo capacity, the Subaru Outback generally has the upper hand. Its wagon-like design provides a larger cargo area, especially with the rear seats folded down, making it ideal for carrying luggage, groceries, or outdoor gear. The CX-5 offers a respectable cargo space, but it’s smaller compared to the Outback. However, the CX-5’s more compact dimensions make it easier to maneuver in tight spaces. Assess your cargo needs and lifestyle to determine which vehicle best suits your needs.
Value for Money
The value proposition of each vehicle depends on the trim level and specific features. The Outback often provides a good value, given its standard all-wheel drive and spacious interior, especially in base trims. The CX-5’s higher trims offer a more premium feel, which is reflected in the price. Consider the features you prioritize and your budget. Research the prices and compare the standard features, options, and warranty coverage to determine the best value for your needs. Both vehicles offer strong value in their respective segments. (See Also: Stealth Cam Vs Moultrie )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Outback If…
- You prioritize maximum cargo space and practicality for carrying gear and luggage.
- You frequently drive on unpaved roads or in snowy conditions due to its higher ground clearance.
- You value a comfortable ride and spacious interior for long journeys.
- You desire a vehicle with a higher towing capacity.
Buy CX-5 If…
- You prioritize a more sporty and engaging driving experience.
- You value a premium interior and upscale design.
- You prefer a vehicle with a more compact and maneuverable size for city driving.
- You are looking for a vehicle with a slightly more fuel-efficient base engine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences in engine options?
The Outback offers a range of engine options, including a base engine and a more powerful turbocharged engine in its higher trims, providing more performance. The CX-5 typically focuses on efficient, naturally aspirated engines that deliver sufficient power for daily driving. Both offer all-wheel drive. The Outback’s turbocharged engine provides a significant performance boost.
Which vehicle is better for off-roading?
The Subaru Outback is generally considered better for off-roading. Its higher ground clearance, standard all-wheel drive system, and available features like X-Mode make it more capable on unpaved roads and challenging terrains. The CX-5 is primarily designed for on-road driving, although it handles mild off-road conditions relatively well.
How does the infotainment system compare?
Both vehicles feature modern infotainment systems. The Outback often has a larger touchscreen display and user-friendly software. The CX-5’s system is known for its intuitive controls and elegant interface, which is controlled by a central knob. Both systems offer smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The CX-5’s control knob gives a tactile experience.
Is the CX-5 more fuel-efficient than the Outback?
Yes, the Mazda CX-5 generally offers better fuel economy compared to the Subaru Outback, particularly in city driving. Its smaller engine options and lighter weight contribute to improved gas mileage. However, the Outback’s fuel economy is still competitive, and its larger fuel tank can sometimes translate to fewer refueling stops on long trips. (See Also: Otterbox Vs Apple Case )
Which car has more cargo space?
The Subaru Outback has more cargo space compared to the Mazda CX-5. Its wagon-like design provides a larger cargo area, especially with the rear seats folded down. This makes the Outback more suitable for carrying luggage, groceries, or outdoor gear. The CX-5 offers a respectable cargo space but is smaller comparatively.
What about safety features? Are they comparable?
Yes, both the Outback and the CX-5 are equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. Both vehicles have received high safety ratings from organizations like the IIHS. Both offer standard features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Outback has Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist technology.
Which car is better for families?
The Subaru Outback is often considered a better choice for families due to its spacious interior, especially in terms of rear passenger legroom and cargo capacity. It also offers a user-friendly infotainment system and a variety of driver-assistance features. The CX-5 is still suitable for families, but it offers less space.
Final Verdict
Choosing between the Subaru Outback and the Mazda CX-5 depends on your priorities. The Outback excels in practicality, off-road capability, and spaciousness, making it a great choice for families and adventurers. The CX-5 prioritizes a sporty driving experience, a premium interior, and fuel efficiency. Consider your lifestyle and driving needs when making your final decision.
Winner: [To Be Determined]