Technology showdown: subaru crosstrek vs mazda cx-5 – which suv offers the most advanced features?

When it comes to compact SUVs, the Subaru Crosstrek and Mazda CX-5 stand out as two of the most popular and well-regarded options on the market. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of performance, practicality, and style, making them ideal for a wide range of drivers. But which one is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive deep into the key differences between the Subaru Crosstrek and Mazda CX-5 to help you make an informed decision.

Performance

Engine and Power

The Subaru Crosstrek comes standard with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. The Mazda CX-5, on the other hand, offers two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 256 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.

In terms of raw power, the Mazda CX-5 with the turbocharged engine has a clear advantage. However, the Subaru Crosstrek‘s naturally aspirated engine is still plenty capable and offers a good balance of power and fuel economy.

Handling and Driving Dynamics

The Subaru Crosstrek is known for its agile handling and responsive steering, making it a joy to drive on both paved and unpaved roads. The standard all-wheel drive system provides excellent traction in all conditions, while the raised suspension gives it a commanding view of the road.

The Mazda CX-5 also handles well, but it has a more refined and composed feel than the Crosstrek. The suspension is tuned for a comfortable ride, and the steering is precise and responsive.

Interior

Space and Comfort

The Subaru Crosstrek offers a spacious and well-appointed interior with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The front seats are supportive and comfortable, and the rear seats provide ample legroom and headroom. The Crosstrek’s large windows and high seating position provide excellent visibility.

The Mazda CX-5 has a slightly smaller interior than the Crosstrek, but it still offers plenty of space for most people. The front seats are supportive and offer good lumbar support, and the rear seats provide adequate legroom and headroom. The CX-5’s interior is also well-insulated, making it a quiet and comfortable place to spend time.

Features and Technology

The Subaru Crosstrek comes standard with a variety of features, including a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Available features include a larger 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, a premium audio system, and a sunroof.

The Mazda CX-5 also comes standard with a variety of features, including a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Available features include a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, navigation, a Bose premium audio system, and a sunroof.

Safety

Both the Subaru Crosstrek and Mazda CX-5 have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard safety features on both vehicles include airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control.

The Subaru Crosstrek comes standard with EyeSight, a suite of advanced safety features that includes lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. The Mazda CX-5 offers a similar suite of safety features called i-Activsense, which includes blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane keep assist.

Fuel Economy

The Subaru Crosstrek with the 2.0-liter engine gets an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. The Mazda CX-5 with the 2.5-liter engine gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The CX-5 with the turbocharged engine gets an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

Pricing

The Subaru Crosstrek has a starting price of $23,595. The Mazda CX-5 has a starting price of $26,800. Both vehicles offer a variety of trim levels and options, so the price can vary depending on the specific configuration you choose.

Which One Should You Choose?

The Subaru Crosstrek and Mazda CX-5 are both excellent compact SUVs that offer a lot of value for the money. The Crosstrek is a great choice for drivers who want a versatile and capable SUV with a spacious interior and a good balance of power and fuel economy. The CX-5 is a great choice for drivers who want a more refined and luxurious SUV with a powerful engine and a well-equipped interior.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which vehicle is right for you is to test drive both of them and see which one you like better.

Popular Questions

Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Mazda CX-5 with the turbocharged engine has a more powerful engine than the Subaru Crosstrek.

Q: Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?
A: The Subaru Crosstrek has a more spacious interior than the Mazda CX-5.

Q: Which vehicle has better fuel economy?
A: The Subaru Crosstrek has better fuel economy than the Mazda CX-5.