How Does The 2026 Mazda CX-5 Compare to 2026 Subaru Forester?
2026 Mazda CX-5 vs. 2026 Subaru Forester
Is the 2026 Mazda CX-5 a better crossover than 2026 Subaru Forester?
When it comes to AWD SUVs, Subaru has long been known as a popular choice. However, many may not realize Mazda also features AWD as standard on their crossovers, for both safety and enhanced driving enjoyment. This includes the Mazda CX-5, long a best-seller for Mazda.
For 2026, the Mazda CX-5 has undergone a significant redesign that builds on what has made CX-5 a favorite for Charlotte Mazda drivers. With this redesign, does the new Mazda CX-5 have what it takes to make it the superior SUV over Subaru Forester?
How much does the 2026 Mazda CX-5 cost?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 and Subaru Forester start just under $30,000. While both vehicles start at a nearly identical base price, Mazda offers a significantly more affordable path to a “fully loaded” experience. Subaru is known for standard all-wheel-drive, but Mazda’s advanced i-ACTIV all-wheel-drive system is also standard on CX-5. Despite being priced similarly, the CX-5 isn’t at a disadvantage over Forester in features. Several features are found standard on the Mazda that require moving up to even more expensive Subaru trim levels to acquire as we’ll explore.
Verdict: The 2026 Mazda CX-5 offers better overall value, thanks to its lower starting price, standard AWD, and overall value against 2026 Forester.
| 2026 Mazda CX-5 | 2026 Subaru Forester | |
|---|---|---|
| Base MSRP | $29,990 | $29,995 |
| All-Wheel-Drive | Standard | Standard |
| Horsepower | 187 | 180 |
| Rear Headroom | 40.2″ | 39.6″ |
| Rear Legroom | 39.9″ | 39.4″ |
| Cargo Volume, Seats Up | 33.7 cu. ft. | 29.6 cu. ft. |
| Standard Infotainment Audio | 12.9″ Touchscreen w/ 8 speakers | 7″ touchscreen w/ 4 speakers |
| Google Built-In | Standard | Not Available |
| Panoramic Moonroof | Available | Available |
| Blind-Spot Monitor w/ Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Standard | Available |
| Rain-Sensing Wipers | Standard | Available |
| Heads-Up Display | Available | Not Available |
Is Mazda CX-5 nicer inside than Subaru Forester?
The 2026 CX-5 has leapfrogged the Forester in terms of cockpit technology. Mazda has introduced its largest screen ever, up to 15.6″, moving away from the “rotary-dial only” approach to a more user-friendly interface. In fact, the standard screen on the new CX-5 is larger than the largest available screen in the Subaru Forester. Mazda CX-5 also now features Google Built-In standard, giving you native access to Google Maps, the Play Store, and Gemini AI assistance directly in the dashboard. This isn’t available on any Forester.
Other niceties include more standard speakers in the Mazda (8 speakers vs. 4 on the base Forester) and standard rain-sensing wipers (optional on Forester). For 2026, Mazda introduces an available panoramic power moonroof to the CX-5 line, matching Forester for a light, airy cabin feel.
One of the biggest contributors to comfort is space, and Mazda has made big leaps here in the 2026 CX-5. CX-5 edges ahead of Forester in rear seat head and legroom, and also beats Forester in seats-up cargo volume by 4 cubic feet.
Verdict: With more features and more space, Mazda CX-5 offers a better cabin experience than Subaru Forester.
How does Mazda CX-5 compare to Subaru Forester in safety?
Safety is another area where the new CX-5 leads, with a full suite of safety technology as standard across all trims. This includes pre-collison system with pedestrian detection, lane-departure alert, and dynamic radar cruise control with stop-and-go. While Subaru features many of these same features, you may be surprised to learn some features like blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert are not standard on the Forester like they are on every CX-5.
In fact, Consumer Reports has named Mazda its first-ever safest new car brand thanks to the brand’s reputation in standard safety equipment and historical performance in Insurance Institute for Highway Safety testing. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 has not yet been tested by the IIHS but should continue Mazda’s tradition of safety.
Verdict: The 2026 Mazda CX-5 provides a fresher, safer, and technologically advanced interior, making it the superior choice for modern drivers in Gastonia.
Is Mazda CX-5 the best value in AWD SUVs?
The Subaru Forester has long been a popular choice in small crossovers, but the new 2026 Mazda CX-5 has taken Mazda’s penchant for a premium experience and blended it in a practical package, elevating it above Subaru Forester. The CX-5’s ability to deliver a more refined, technologically advanced, and value-oriented driving experience only becomes stronger with its 2026 redesign. And just as the Mazda CX-5 goes the extra mile for you, so does Mazda of Gastonia. Call, text or visit us today at 4811 Wilkinson Blvd in Gastonia to see the new CX-5 for yourself. We know you’ll be just as impressed!