Is the subaru forester worth the hype? comparing it to the cx-5
What To Know
- Its EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings are 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, while the CX-5 gets 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
- The CX-5, on the other hand, offers a Terrain Management System that allows drivers to select different modes for different road conditions, but it lacks the same level of off-road prowess as X-Mode.
- The Forester offers a more spacious interior than the CX-5, with more headroom, legroom, and shoulder room in both the front and rear seats.
In the realm of compact SUVs, two formidable contenders stand out: the Subaru Forester and the Mazda CX-5. Both vehicles boast exceptional capabilities, advanced technology, and rugged designs that make them ideal companions for adventure-seekers. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of these two SUVs, helping you make an informed decision based on your unique needs and preferences.
Performance and Handling: Thrill or Efficiency?
Engine Power and Acceleration:
The Forester comes standard with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. The CX-5, on the other hand, offers a more powerful 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. This slight edge in power gives the CX-5 a quicker acceleration time, reaching 60 mph in 8.7 seconds compared to the Forester’s 9.5 seconds.
Fuel Economy:
If fuel efficiency is a priority, the Forester has the upper hand. Its EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings are 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, while the CX-5 gets 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
Handling and Agility:
Both the Forester and CX-5 offer excellent handling and agility, thanks to their well-tuned suspensions and precise steering. However, the CX-5’s lower center of gravity and sportier suspension give it a more athletic feel, providing a more engaging driving experience on winding roads.
Off-Road Capabilities: Embracing Adventure
All-Wheel Drive and Ground Clearance:
Both vehicles come standard with all-wheel drive, ensuring optimal traction and stability in all road conditions. However, the Forester has a slight advantage in terms of ground clearance, with 8.7 inches compared to the CX-5’s 7.9 inches. This extra ground clearance gives the Forester a better ability to navigate rough terrain and obstacles.
X-Mode and Terrain Management:
The Forester’s exclusive X-Mode system provides enhanced off-road capabilities, optimizing the vehicle’s performance for various terrains such as snow, mud, and gravel. The CX-5, on the other hand, offers a Terrain Management System that allows drivers to select different modes for different road conditions, but it lacks the same level of off-road prowess as X-Mode.
Interior Comfort and Practicality: Space and Comfort
Passenger Space and Cargo Capacity:
The Forester offers a more spacious interior than the CX-5, with more headroom, legroom, and shoulder room in both the front and rear seats. It also has a larger cargo capacity, with 31.1 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats compared to the CX-5’s 25.6 cubic feet.
Interior Features and Technology:
Both vehicles feature well-equipped interiors with comfortable seats, high-quality materials, and user-friendly infotainment systems. The CX-5, however, offers a more premium and stylish cabin, with a sleek dashboard design and a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen display compared to the Forester’s 8-inch touchscreen.
Safety and Driver Assistance: Peace of Mind
Standard Safety Features:
Both the Forester and CX-5 come standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. The CX-5, however, adds blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as standard, while these features are optional on the Forester.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems:
The Forester offers the optional EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes features such as lane centering assist, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control with stop and go. The CX-5 has a similar suite of advanced driver assistance systems called i-Activsense, which includes features such as traffic sign recognition, driver attention alert, and Smart City Brake Support.
Reliability and Ownership Costs: Long-Term Value
Reliability Ratings:
Both the Subaru Forester and the Mazda CX-5 have excellent reliability ratings from organizations such as J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. The Forester has consistently ranked higher in recent years, earning the title of “Most Reliable Compact SUV” by J.D. Power in 2021.
Maintenance and Ownership Costs:
The estimated annual maintenance and ownership costs for the Forester are slightly lower than those of the CX-5, according to TrueCar. The Forester’s lower fuel consumption and longer service intervals contribute to its lower overall ownership costs.
Key Points: The Ultimate Choice for Adventure and Value
Whether you prioritize off-road prowess, interior space, or a combination of both, the Subaru Forester and Mazda CX-5 offer compelling options for adventure-seekers. The Forester excels in off-road capabilities and reliability, while the CX-5 provides a more premium interior and engaging driving experience. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which vehicle has a better warranty?
A: Both the Subaru Forester and Mazda CX-5 offer similar warranties: 3 years/36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper and 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain.
Q: Is the Subaru Forester available with a hybrid powertrain?
A: Yes, the Subaru Forester offers a hybrid powertrain option that combines a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor, providing improved fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance.
Q: Which vehicle has a larger touchscreen display?
A: The Mazda CX-5 has a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen display compared to the Subaru Forester‘s 8-inch touchscreen display.