2025 Subaru Outback Premium vs 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport
This is not a spec comparison. It is a decision about whether you need a midsize sedan or a compact SUV. Key numbers: 182 vs 191 hp, 28 vs 29 MPG.
The Outback Premium leads on 18.1″ longer. The CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport leads on $6,210 less. 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 Outback Premium | 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $33,060 | $26,850 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L flat 4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 182 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | 176 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 | 32 | 33 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 18.5 gal | 12.7 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,550/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,661 lbs | 3,419 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 108.1" | 104.4" |
| Length | 191.1" | 173.0" |
| Width | 73.0" | 70.7" |
| Height | 66.1" | 61.7" |
| 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 Outback 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, $6,210 less than the 2025 Subaru Outback Premium at $33,060. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $109/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Subaru Outback Premium?
The 2025 Subaru Outback Premium is the stronger pick when your priority is a comfortable daily commute; 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 $6,210 in your pocket and the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $52/year less on fuel; your priority is passenger space and cargo flexibility.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Subaru Outback Premium or 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport rates 29 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Subaru Outback Premium or 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport produces 191 hp, 9 more than the 2025 Subaru Outback Premium at 182 hp. The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 176 lb-ft. The 2025 Subaru Outback 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 Outback Premium bigger than the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport?
The 2025 Subaru Outback Premium is 18.1″ longer at 191.1″ vs 173.0″. The 2025 Subaru Outback Premium has a 3.7″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom. Keep in mind these are different vehicle types (midsize sedan vs compact SUV), so interior layout and cargo access are fundamentally different.
Can I cross-shop a midsize sedan against a compact SUV?
Yes, and many buyers do. A midsize sedan and a compact SUV solve different problems, so the comparison is less about specs and more about lifestyle. Think about what you need most: cargo room and passenger space. The spec table above helps you compare the numbers, but a test drive is where you will feel the difference in daily use.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Subaru trims, Subaru Outback trims, Mazda trims, Mazda CX-30 trims
Outback vs CX-30: What This Matchup Is Really About
A midsize sedan against a compact SUV is not a typical matchup, but buyers with flexible needs compare them more often than you might think. The 2025 Subaru Outback Premium ($33,060) and 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport ($26,850) solve different problems at similar price points. The $-6,210 gap adds up to $109/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 Outback Premium runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport uses a 2.5L I4. The 9 hp difference (191 vs 182) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Outback vs CX-30
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport saves roughly $52/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $260.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2025 Subaru Outback Premium is optimized for a comfortable daily commute and a low center of gravity. The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport is designed around passenger space, cargo flexibility, and a higher seating position. These are fundamentally different vehicles, so the comparison comes down to what job you need done, not which one is objectively better. The 2025 Subaru Outback Premium is 18.1″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Subaru Outback Premium when your priority is a comfortable daily commute. Choose the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Select Sport when you want to keep $6,210 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.