2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited vs 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition
$2,150 less and 4 mpg better vs 45 more hp and 132 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $2,150 price gap, 182 vs 227 hp, 29 vs 25 MPG.
The Crosstrek Limited leads on $2,150 less, 4 MPG better. The CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition 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 | 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $32,260 | $34,410 |
| 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 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 25 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.6 gal | 12.7 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,349 lbs | 3,527 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 104.4" |
| Length | 176.4" | 173.0" |
| Width | 70.9" | 70.7" |
| Height | 63.0" | 61.4" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| 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 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition?
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited starts at $32,260, $2,150 less than the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition at $34,410. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $38/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 $2,150 in your pocket and the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $232/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition?
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition 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 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition?
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited rates 29 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited or 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition?
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition produces 227 hp, 45 more than the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited at 182 hp. The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition also leads in torque at 310 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited bigger than the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition?
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited is 3.4″ longer at 176.4″ vs 173.0″. The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited has a 0.7″ 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-30 trims
Crosstrek vs CX-30: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited and 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $2,150 gap is about $38/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition has 45 more hp (227 vs 182), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition 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-30
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited saves roughly $232/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,160. The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited when you want to keep $2,150 in your pocket and the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition when the extra 45 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $38/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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.