2025 Subaru Forester Premium vs 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport
10.3″ longer vs $6,535 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 180 vs 191 hp, 29 vs 29 MPG.
The Forester Premium leads on 10.3″ longer. The CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport leads on $6,535 less. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 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 Forester Premium | 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $33,385 | $26,850 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L flat 4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 33 | 33 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.6 gal | 12.7 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,569 lbs | 3,419 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 104.4" |
| Length | 183.3" | 173.0" |
| Width | 72.0" | 70.7" |
| Height | 68.1" | 61.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | 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 Forester Premium and 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport starts at $26,850, $6,535 less than the 2025 Subaru Forester Premium at $33,385. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $115/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Subaru Forester Premium?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Premium is the stronger pick when you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Who should choose the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport is the stronger pick when you want to keep $6,535 in your pocket and the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport covers your needs; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Subaru Forester Premium or 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport?
Both achieve 29 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Subaru Forester Premium or 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport produces 191 hp, 11 more than the 2025 Subaru Forester Premium at 180 hp. The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2025 Subaru Forester Premium runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2025 Subaru Forester Premium bigger than the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Premium is 10.3″ longer at 183.3″ vs 173.0″. The 2025 Subaru Forester Premium 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 Forester trims, Mazda trims, Mazda CX-30 trims
How the Forester and CX-30 Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2025 Subaru Forester Premium ($33,385) and 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport ($26,850) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-6,535 gap adds up to $115/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: Forester vs CX-30
The 2025 Subaru Forester Premium runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport uses a 2.5L I4. The 11 hp difference (191 vs 180) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2025 Subaru Forester Premium is 10.3″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Subaru Forester Premium when you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo. Choose the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport when you want to keep $6,535 in your pocket and the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport covers your needs.
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.