2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium vs 2026 Subaru Forester Sport
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
CX-5 2.5 S Premium starts at $35,200, $3,695 less. Forester Sport leads with 30 MPG. CX-5 2.5 S Premium makes 187 hp (+7).
| Spec | 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium | 2026 Subaru Forester Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $35,200 Save $3,695 | $38,895 +$3,695 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L Flat-4 |
| Horsepower | 187 hp +7 hp | 180 hp 7 hp less |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-Spd AT | CVT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 4 less | 29 +4 |
| Hwy MPG | 30 3 less | 33 +3 |
| Combined MPG | 27 3 less | 30 +3 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 30.8 cu ft | 29.6 cu ft |
| Screen | 10.25" | 11.6" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Yes | Yes |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,770 lbs | 3,610 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.2" | 105.1" |
| Length | 179.1" | 182.3" |
| Wheels | 19" Alloy | 18" Black |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | i-Activsense | EyeSight |
CX-5 2.5 S Premium or Forester Sport?
Both are competitive. CX-5 2.5 S Premium has a lower entry price, Forester Sport leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium and 2026 Subaru Forester Sport?
Which gets better gas mileage, the CX-5 2.5 S Premium or Forester Sport?
Should I buy a 2026 Mazda CX-5 or Subaru Forester?
Which is more reliable, the Mazda CX-5 or Subaru Forester?
Is the Mazda CX-5 bigger than the Subaru Forester?
What is the cost of insurance for the CX-5 2.5 S Premium vs Forester Sport?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium?
Who Should Choose the CX-5 2.5 S Premium
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium appeals to buyers who want strong value without overspending. At $35,200, it undercuts the Forester Sport by $3,695.
Mazda ownership comes with a distinct ownership proposition. Compare more: CX-5 2.5 S vs CX-5 2.5 S Select, CX-5 2.5 S vs CX-5 2.5 S Premium, CX-5 2.5 S vs CX-5 2.5 Turbo.
Who Should Choose the Forester Sport
The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport is the better fit for buyers who value what the Subaru Forester brings to the table. Superior fuel economy at 30 combined MPG is a genuine running-cost advantage.
Subaru's approach to this suv emphasizes a balance of features and value. If that aligns with your priorities, the Forester Sport deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $3,695 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Forester Sport carries a premium, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the CX-5 2.5 S Premium makes 7 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, larger wheels also contribute. Both are competitive within the suv market, and neither represents a poor value at their respective price points.
What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference
Enthusiast drivers will feel the differences immediately if there's a powertrain gap. The horsepower difference here is modest enough that most commuters won't notice it. Interior differences become apparent on longer trips where seat comfort, noise levels, and tech features matter more.
For buyers who primarily drive in urban and suburban settings under 40 mph, both of these suvs will feel remarkably similar in daily use. The differences surface on road trips, in extreme weather (where heated seats and AWD matter), and during technology-heavy interactions like navigation and phone integration.
When Both Suvs Feel the Same
In a parking lot, at a stoplight, or cruising in light traffic, these two vehicles deliver very similar experiences. Both are modern, safe suvs with contemporary safety suites, decent infotainment, and comfortable cabins. Neither will leave you feeling shortchanged in everyday scenarios.
The choice between Mazda and Subaru often comes down to brand loyalty, dealer experience, and which vehicle simply feels right during a test drive. We recommend driving both back-to-back on the same day — the subtle differences in steering feel, seat position, and visibility are more informative than any spec sheet.