Battle of the Crossovers: Why the 2025 Mazda CX-5 Outshines the Subaru Forester

Discover how the 2025 Mazda CX-5 and Subaru Forester compare against one another. Compare tech features, performance, as well as trims and pricing today!

When shopping for a reliable, versatile crossover SUV, two models frequently top the list: the 2025 Mazda CX-5 and the 2025 Subaru Forester. Both vehicles offer standard all-wheel drive, spacious interiors, and solid fuel economy, making them appealing choices for families and adventurous drivers alike. However, after taking a closer look at what each model brings to the table, one emerges as the clear winner for drivers seeking the perfect balance of style, performance, and value. At Independence Mazda, your Community-Driven Mazda Dealer in Charlotte, NC, we’ve done the research, and we’re excited to show how these two crossover SUVs stack up against one another.

Two Different Approaches to the Crossover SUV

2025 Mazda CX-5

At a glance, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 represents Mazda’s commitment to delivering premium experiences at accessible prices. This crossover SUV starts at $28,570 and immediately impresses with standard all-wheel drive, fuel economy ratings up to 28 combined MPG, and available 19-inch alloy wheels that hint at its sporty character. The CX-5 embodies Mazda’s philosophy of making every drive feel special, whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring winding country roads.

2025 Subaru Forester

On the other hand, Subaru positions the 2025 Forester as a compact SUV designed for practical adventures – with a starting MSRP of $29,995, the Forester offers impressive fuel economy ratings of up to 33 city and 26 highway MPG, standard AWD, and the availability of hybrid variants for those prioritizing maximum efficiency.

Size & Exterior: Style Meets Substance

When comparing the exterior sizes of the 2025 Mazda CX-5 and Subaru Forest, two distinct design philosophies are revealed. The 2025 CX-5 showcases Mazda’s signature Kodo design language, creating a striking exterior profile that turns heads wherever it goes. At 180.1 inches long, 72.6 inches wide, and 65.4 inches tall, the CX-5 maintains a sleek, athletic stance while providing 7.6 inches of ground clearance for light off-road adventures. Standard 17-inch alloy wheels and an available rear roof spoiler add to its sophisticated appearance. In contrast, the Subaru Forester takes a more utilitarian approach with dimensions of 183.3 inches in length, 72.0 inches in width, and 68.1 inches in height. While slightly longer and taller than the CX-5, this practical approach comes at the cost of the visual drama that makes the CX-5 so appealing in parking lots and driveways.

Performance: Power Meets Efficiency

Under the hood, both vehicles take different approaches to delivering reliable performance. When it comes to the 2025 CX-5, Mazda has outfitted their crossover with their proprietarys SKYACTIV-G 2.5 DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine, which produces an impressive 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque, with an impressive 320 lb-ft of torque and 227 horsepower with an upgraded engine available at specific trim levels. This power range gives CX-5 drivers access to genuinely spirited performance, especially in higher trims, while still achieving respectable fuel economy of 26/30 and 22/7 with the upgraded engine. On the other side, the 2025 Forester relies on Subaru’s 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER 4-cylinder engine across all trims, producing 180-182 horsepower in standard variants and 162 horsepower in hybrid models. While the Forester offers slightly better city fuel economy at 33 MPG, its torque figures of 176-178 lb-ft (154 lb-ft for hybrids) fall well short of what the CX-5 delivers. On top of that, the Forester only achieves a towing capacity of 1,500 lbs, which is dwarfed by the CX-5’s 2,000-lb towing capacity, Overall, the CX-5’s superior power delivery and more engaging driving experience prove more valuable in daily use.

Interior & Technology: Comfort and Connectivity

When it comes to the interior, both the 2025 CX-5 and Forester accommodate up to five passengers, but where these vehicles differ can be found in their approaches to interior design and technology integration.

Interior and Storage

The CX-5’s interior reflects Mazda’s attention to premium details, featuring a standard leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear selector, as well as cloth-trimmed seats with available upgrades to leatherette, leather, and luxurious Nappa leather options. The 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat provides flexible storage solutions, while the cabin offers up to 59.3 cubic feet of storage volume. The Forester, on the other hand, provides more raw storage space with 69.1-74.4 cubic feet of total volume and 60/40-split flat-folding rear seatbacks. However, many interior features that come standard on the CX-5—such as leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear selector—are only available as options on the Forester, indicating a higher quality at lower price points.

Technology Features

In terms of technology, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 takes the lead with a standard 10.25-inch full-color display across all trim levels that surpasses the Forester’s standard 7-inch infotainment screen. While the Forester offers larger available screens up to 11.6 inches and an available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster on select trims, the CX-5’s standard technology package provides more value right out of the gate. Audio systems in both vehicles start with 4-speaker setups – the CX-5 offers an available 10-speaker Bose system while the Forester tops out at an 11-speaker Harman Kardon system in its highest trims.

Pricing & Trim Comparison: Value Across the Lineups

When it comes to pricing, the 2025 CX-5 is at a significant advantage. Starting at $28,570 compared to the Forester’s $29,995 base price, the CX-5 offers more standard features at a lower entry point. On top of that, the CX-5’s price range extends to $40,600 across eight distinct trims, providing options for every budget and preference. Tthe Forester’s ten trim levels span from $29,995 to $43,295, with hybrid variants available across multiple trim levels. The higher starting price and top-end costs make the Forester less accessible for budget-conscious buyers and more expensive for those seeking luxury features.

Which Crossover SUV Wins?

After examining every aspect of these two popular crossovers, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 emerges as the superior choice for most drivers; it offers a more engaging driving experience with significantly more power and torque, a more stylish exterior design that reflects Mazda’s premium aspirations, and a better value proposition with more standard features at a lower starting price. While the 2025 Subaru Forester excels in certain areas such as ground clearance and maximum cargo space, these advantages come at the cost of driving enjoyment, visual appeal, and overall value. The CX-5’s combination of performance, style, technology, and affordability makes it the smarter choice for drivers who want it all.

Experience the CX-5 Difference at Independence Mazda

Ready to discover why the 2025 Mazda CX-5 stands out from the competition? Visit Independence Mazda today to explore our complete CX-5 lineup and experience firsthand what makes this crossover SUV the smart choice for discerning drivers. Our knowledgeable team is ready to help you find the perfect CX-5 trim and get you behind the wheel of Mazda’s award-winning engineering. Get in touch with our team today to schedule your test drive, explore available new Mazda offers, and discover the CX-5 advantage for yourself. Your perfect crossover SUV is waiting!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between the 2025 Mazda CX-5 and the 2025 Subaru Forester?

The CX-5 focuses on premium styling, spirited performance, and refined interior finishes, while the Forester emphasizes practicality, efficiency, and cargo space. Both offer standard all-wheel drive, but the CX-5 provides a more dynamic driving experience and more standard features for a lower starting price.

Which SUV has better performance and power?

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 offers stronger performance with up to 227 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque when equipped with its available turbocharged engine. In contrast, the Forester maxes out around 182 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, making the CX-5 a more responsive and engaging vehicle to drive.

How do the fuel economy ratings compare between the CX-5 and Forester?

The Subaru Forester offers slightly better city fuel economy, with up to 33 MPG, compared to the CX-5’s 30 MPG highway rating. However, the CX-5 balances its fuel efficiency with significantly higher torque and power.

Which vehicle has more cargo space?

The Forester offers more total cargo volume, with up to 74.4 cubic feet. The CX-5 provides up to 59.3 cubic feet, but compensates with higher-quality materials and a more upscale interior design.

What are the interior and technology differences?

The Mazda CX-5 comes standard with a 10.25-inch full-color infotainment display, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and upscale trim materials. The Forester starts with a 7-inch screen and includes many premium features only in higher trims.

Which SUV is more affordable?

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 has a lower starting MSRP at $28,570, compared to the Forester’s $29,995 base price. With more features included standard, the CX-5 offers stronger value at every trim level.

Is towing capacity different between the two models?

Yes. The Mazda CX-5 can tow up to 2,000 pounds, while the Forester is limited to 1,500 pounds. If towing capability is a priority, the CX-5 is the better choice.

Why should I consider the 2025 Mazda CX-5 over the Forester?

Drivers looking for an SUV that delivers a more premium design, stronger performance, better technology, and greater value will find the CX-5 a more compelling option. It blends practicality and luxury in a way that sets it apart from the competition.