2016.5 Mazda CX-5 vs. 2017 Subaru Forester
The 2017 Subaru Forest May Take You Places, But the 2016.5 Mazda CX-5 Can Help You Find New Adventures
Athletic, stylish, and great on gas – the 2016.5 Mazda CX-5 SUV takes everything we like about small-sized crossovers and dials it to “11.” When comparing the spacious cabin, gas mileage, and power to the 2017 Subaru Forester, we can see why Subaru’s latest model is still trying to catch up to Mazda in performance and options.
On the outside, the Mazda CX-5 incorporates an animalistic “Soul of Motion” design, which captures the essence of poise, aggression – making it a less jaunty presence than that Forester, which sports a narrower grill and elevated front bumper.
Inside, we see much of the same. Both the CX-5 and the Forester can safely handle 5 passengers. While there’s 2 inches more of leg room in the Forester, the Mazda beats the cabin space with more front hip room, and leg room overall throughout. With the Mazda, you also get more cargo length and width – with 57.1 inches versus 45.9 inches at the beltline. Soft materials and thoughtful accents add to the CX-5’s driver’s seat, where superior craftsmanship makes for a divine interior.
Go Bigger and Bolder with Mazda’s SKYACTIVE Engine and Easy to Navigate Infotainment Technology over Subaru’s Boxer
Performance-wise, the Mazda CX-5 boasts a powerful 2.5L SKYACTIV®-G 4-cylinder engine, which delivers 184 horsepower. Compared to the Subaru Forester’s 2.5L DOHC Boxer engine, offering only 170 horsepower, which translates into a loss for fuel economy. Both drivetrains feature symmetrical all-wheel drive, but the Mazda’s patented i-ACTIV® AWD allows for a tighter, smoother ride wherever you go.
The Subaru Forester offers competitive technology with their STARLINK™ Multimedia infotainment system. A 6.2-inch touchscreen with connectivity to your apps, news, weather, music, and destination hotspots is a nice touch. The CX-5, however, offers the Mazda CONNECT™ infotainment system with a bigger, bolder 7-inch touchscreen in full color. Packaged with Bluetooth® technology and a sleek Commander Control Knob, the Mazda is a no-brainer when it comes to comfort and ease-of-use technology at your fingertips.
There’s no better way to see just how impressive the 2016.5 Mazda CX- 5 than with a test drive at Headquarter Mazda in Clermont, Florida. We are dedicated to serving Winter Garden and Ocoee drivers with our experienced, friendly staff. At Headquarter Mazda, you’re family. Visit our new facility today, or call us at (407) 905-9999 to schedule an appointment today.
| 2016.5 Mazda CX-5 | 2017 Subaru Forester | |
| MSRP* | $21,795 – $28,570* | $22,595 – $34,295* |
| Trims | Sport │ Touring │ Grand Touring │ Signature | 2.5i | 2.5i Premium | 2.5i Limited | 2.0XT Premium | 2.5i Touring | 2.0 XT Touring |
Power and Efficiency
| City MGP** | 23 | 22 – 26 |
| Highway MPG** | 33 – 35 | 27 – 32 |
| Engine Type | SKYACTIV®24-G 2.0L DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder with VVT | 2.5L or Turbocharged 2.0L BOXER® 4-Cylinder |
| EPA Combined** | 26 | 24 – 28 |
Powertrain
| Transmission Options | 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic | 6-Speed Manual, CVT or High-Torque CVT |
| Drivetrain Options | FWD, AWD | AWD |
Warranty
| Warranty | Basic Limited: 3 years / 36,000 miles Powertrain: 5 years / 60,000 miles Roadside Assistance: 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Basic Limited: 3 years / 36,000 miles Powertrain: 5 years / 60,000 miles Roadside Assistance: 3-years / 36,000-miles |
Overall NHSTA Crash Test Rating
| NHTSA Rating | 4 Star | 5 Star |