Crossover rivalry: unveiling the pros and cons of the subaru crosstrek vs mazda cx-50

In the realm of compact crossovers, the Subaru Crosstrek and the Mazda CX-50 emerge as formidable contenders. Both vehicles boast impressive capabilities, stylish designs, and a knack for outdoor exploration. But which one reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of the Subaru Crosstrek vs. Mazda CX-50 to determine their strengths, weaknesses, and the ultimate winner for your adventurous lifestyle.

Performance and Capability

Engine Power and Fuel Economy

The Crosstrek and CX-50 offer similar engine options, with both vehicles featuring a base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The Crosstrek generates 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, while the CX-50 produces 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. However, the Crosstrek has a slight advantage in fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city and 36 mpg highway compared to the CX-50’s 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.

All-Wheel Drive and Off-Road Prowess

Both the Crosstrek and CX-50 come standard with all-wheel drive, making them capable of tackling various terrains. However, the Crosstrek has a slight edge in off-road capabilities, thanks to its higher ground clearance (8.7 inches vs. 8.6 inches) and standard X-Mode system, which optimizes traction and stability in challenging conditions.

Interior and Comfort

Cabin Space and Amenities

The Crosstrek offers a spacious interior with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. It features comfortable seats with supportive cushioning and a well-designed dashboard with intuitive controls. The CX-50, on the other hand, provides a more premium cabin with luxurious materials and advanced technology. Its seats are exceptionally comfortable, and the infotainment system is user-friendly and responsive.

Cargo Capacity and Versatility

The Crosstrek has a slightly larger cargo area than the CX-50, with 20.8 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 55.3 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The CX-50 offers 20.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 56.3 cubic feet with the seats folded down. Both vehicles feature versatile seating configurations and ample storage compartments for gear and equipment.

Safety and Technology

Safety Features

The Crosstrek and CX-50 come equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The CX-50 has a slight edge in safety ratings, earning a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) compared to the Crosstrek’s Top Safety Pick rating.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Crosstrek features a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The CX-50 comes standard with an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with a more intuitive interface and a wider range of connected services. Both vehicles offer premium audio systems for an immersive audio experience.

Design and Style

Exterior Aesthetics

The Crosstrek has a rugged and adventurous exterior design with pronounced wheel arches and protective cladding. The CX-50, on the other hand, boasts a more refined and sophisticated look with sleek lines and a bold front grille. Both vehicles offer a range of exterior colors and customization options to suit personal preferences.

Interior Ambiance

The Crosstrek’s interior is functional and durable, with a focus on practicality and ease of use. The CX-50’s interior exudes a sense of luxury and sophistication, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail.

Price and Value

Starting Price and Trim Levels

The Subaru Crosstrek has a lower starting price than the Mazda CX-50, with a base MSRP of $24,895 compared to the CX-50’s $28,025. Both vehicles offer a range of trim levels with varying features and amenities, allowing buyers to choose the configuration that best fits their needs and budget.

Resale Value and Ownership Costs

The Subaru Crosstrek typically retains its value better than the Mazda CX-50. According to Kelley Blue Book, the Crosstrek has a projected 5-year resale value of 56.5% compared to the CX-50’s 50.9%. Ownership costs, such as insurance and maintenance, are comparable between the two vehicles.

The Verdict: Which One Wins?

After weighing all the factors, the Subaru Crosstrek emerges as the overall winner in this comparison. It offers a slightly better balance of off-road capabilities, fuel economy, and value for money. The Crosstrek is an excellent choice for adventurous individuals seeking a versatile and capable companion for their outdoor pursuits.

Summary: The Adventure-Ready Crossover of Choice

Whether you’re navigating rugged trails or embarking on urban adventures, the Subaru Crosstrek is the ultimate choice for those who demand both practicality and adventure. Its impressive all-wheel drive system, spacious interior, and affordable price make it an exceptional value proposition. While the Mazda CX-50 offers a more premium cabin and advanced technology, it comes at a higher cost and sacrifices some off-road prowess.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?

The Mazda CX-50 produces slightly more horsepower (187 hp) and torque (186 lb-ft) than the Subaru Crosstrek (182 hp, 176 lb-ft).

Which vehicle has a higher ground clearance?

The Subaru Crosstrek has a slightly higher ground clearance of 8.7 inches compared to the Mazda CX-50’s 8.6 inches.

Which vehicle has a larger cargo capacity?

The Subaru Crosstrek has a slightly larger cargo area than the Mazda CX-50, with 20.8 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 55.3 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

Which vehicle has better safety ratings?

The Mazda CX-50 has slightly better safety ratings, earning a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS compared to the Crosstrek’s Top Safety Pick rating.

Which vehicle has a lower starting price?

The Subaru Crosstrek has a lower starting price of $24,895 compared to the Mazda CX-50’s $28,025.