2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited vs 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium
$6,020 less and 5 mpg better vs 45 more hp and 132 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $6,020 price gap, 182 vs 227 hp, 29 vs 24 MPG.
The Crosstrek Limited leads on $6,020 less, 5 MPG better. The CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium leads on 45 more hp, 132 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited | 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $32,260 | $38,280 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L flat 4 | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 182 hp | 227 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 | 22 |
| Highway MPG | 33 | 27 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 24 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.6 gal | 15.3 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,349 lbs | 3,871 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 106.2" |
| Length | 176.4" | 180.1" |
| Width | 70.9" | 72.6" |
| Height | 63.0" | 66.3" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited and 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium?
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited starts at $32,260, $6,020 less than the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium at $38,280. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $106/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited?
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited is the stronger pick when you want to keep $6,020 in your pocket and the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $302/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium is the stronger pick when the extra 45 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited or 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium?
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited rates 29 combined MPG, 5 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited or 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium produces 227 hp, 45 more than the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited at 182 hp. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium also leads in torque at 310 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited bigger than the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium is 3.7″ longer at 180.1″ vs 176.4″. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium has a 1.1″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Subaru trims, Subaru Crosstrek trims, Mazda trims, Mazda CX-5 trims
Crosstrek vs CX-5: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited and 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $6,020 gap adds up to $106/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium has 45 more hp (227 vs 182), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium adds 132 more lb-ft of torque (310 vs 178), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Crosstrek vs CX-5
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited saves roughly $302/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,510. The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium weighs 522 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited when you want to keep $6,020 in your pocket and the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium when the extra 45 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $106/month more, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 Turbo Premium needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Subaru or Mazda or any dealership.