2026 Mazda CX-5 vs Subaru Forester

If you’re shopping for SUVs in the Philadelphia area, you’ve probably narrowed it down to the 2026 Mazda CX-5 and the 2026 Subaru Forester. Both are excellent choices for families seeking reliability, versatility, and good value. So, which is better, Mazda or Subaru? Let’s break it down.

Pricing and Trim Level Breakdown

The 2026 Subaru Forester starts at $29,995. You can choose from six trim levels: Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, Wilderness, and Touring. The top Touring trim has a starting MSRP of $41,595.

Mazda hasn’t released official pricing for the redesigned 2026 CX-5 yet. The 2025 CX-5 starts at $29,050, so the 2026 version is expected to be similarly priced. That puts it right in line with the Forester. For drivers near Conshohocken, both vehicles give you solid value for your money.

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 may not be available yet, but when it is, be sure to check out our new vehicle specials. You are certain to find some amazing lease deals for the 2026 Mazda CX-5 there. 

Performance and Powertrain Comparison

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is equipped with a 187-horsepower four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission. All models come standard with all-wheel drive. Mazda has fine-tuned this engine to be more responsive, making the CX-5 fun to drive on both your daily commute and weekend trips.

The 2026 Subaru Forester engine makes 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. It’s a bit less powerful on paper, but not enough for the average driver to notice. 

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 doesn’t have official EPA mileage numbers yet, but the 2025 model gets 26 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. You should expect the 2026 model to have similar numbers. That’s pretty good for a vehicle this size, especially if you’re commuting from Conshohocken to Philadelphia.

The 2026 Subaru Forester’s fuel efficiency will depend on which trim level you choose. The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness, for example, gets 24 mpg city and 28 mpg on the highway.

That’s only a few miles per gallon difference between the two SUVs. You can see that they can compete with each other in almost every category. 

Interior Space, Comfort, and Cargo Capacity

The redesigned 2026 Mazda CX-5 is bigger than before. Mazda extended the wheelbase by 4.5 inches, resulting in increased legroom in the back seat. They also widened the doors, making it easier for kids to get in and out. The trunk is also larger, measuring two inches longer and one inch taller.

The 2026 Subaru Forester has long been recognized for its spacious interior. The boxy shape might not be as sleek, but it means ample space inside.

Both SUVs seat five people comfortably. The redesigned CX-5 emphasizes upscale craftsmanship in its interior. The Forester is more practical for tough surfaces and everyday family life. For families in Conshohocken, the CX-5’s bigger back seat gives it a small advantage.

Technology and Infotainment Features

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 receives a significant upgrade, featuring an available 15.6-inch touchscreen. It’s the biggest screen Mazda has ever put in a car. The system runs on Google Built-In software and works like your smartphone.

The 2026 Subaru Forester offers an available 11.6-inch upright screen. Base models get two 7-inch displays instead. It works fine and has wireless smartphone connectivity, too, but it feels a bit more old-school compared to the CX-5.

If you care about having the latest tech when comparing features, the CX-5’s bigger and faster touchscreen is hard to beat. Mazda has loaded the redesigned CX-5 with cutting-edge tech.

Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is designed to compete for an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. Mazda is adding new driver-assistance features to complement the standard i-Activsense package. That includes automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control.

The 2026 Subaru Forester comes standard with the latest EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. It now detects pedestrians and cyclists more accurately than before. You can add extras such as driver monitoring and emergency steering assistance. Subaru was named Consumer Reports’ 2025 Most Reliable Brand.

When comparing Mazda and Subaru safety, both companies take protection seriously. Either choice will keep your family safe on Conshohocken roads.

Reliability, Warranty, and Ownership Costs

Consumer Reports says the Mazda CX-5 is more reliable than average. Owners love how it drives and appreciate its well-built design. 

The Subaru Forester earns a reliability rating significantly above average from Consumer Reports. Both brands offer the same warranty: three years or 36,000 miles for basic coverage and five years or 60,000 miles for the powertrain.

For Subaru vs Mazda reliability, both have good track records. If you’re looking for a reliable car, both options would suit you well.

Which SUV Should You Choose?

Choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 if you want a fun-to-drive vehicle with a nicer interior and the latest technology. The redesigned CX-5 has more space, feels more upscale than you’d expect, and makes your daily drive more enjoyable.

Go with the 2026 Subaru Forester if you care most about proven reliability, better fuel economy, and all-weather confidence. The Forester’s practical design and great visibility work well in all conditions. The Wilderness trim is well-suited for off-road adventures.

For Pennsylvania drivers, both SUVs come with standard all-wheel drive for winter weather. The CX-5 is sportier and more fun, while the Forester is more practical. While the 2026 CX-5 is not yet available, keep an eye on our inventory of Mazda CX-5s for updates.

Experience the 2026 Mazda CX-5 at John Kennedy Mazda of Conshohocken

Ready to see which SUV is right for you? Visit John Kennedy Mazda of Conshohocken to check out the redesigned 2026 Mazda CX-5. Our team can answer your questions, arrange test drives, and assist you in selecting the right trim level.

We’re located at 1411 Ridge Pike in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania, and we serve the greater Philadelphia area. Call us today at 610-272-0700 to schedule your test drive.

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