2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium vs 2026 Subaru Forester Sport
On paper, the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport wins on $795 less. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 187 vs 180 hp, 28 vs 28 MPG.
The Forester Sport leads on $795 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 | 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium | 2026 Subaru Forester Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,900 | $36,105 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 32 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.3 gal | 16.6 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,856 lbs | 3,611 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 110.8" | 105.1" |
| Length | 184.6" | 183.3" |
| Width | 73.2" | 72.0" |
| Height | 66.7" | 68.1" |
| 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 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium and 2026 Subaru Forester Sport?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport starts at $36,105, $795 less than the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium at $36,900. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $14/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium is the stronger pick when the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport is the stronger pick when you want to keep $795 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium or 2026 Subaru Forester Sport?
Both achieve 28 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium or 2026 Subaru Forester Sport?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium produces 187 hp, 7 more than the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport at 180 hp. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport uses a 2.5L flat 4.
Is the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium bigger than the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium is 1.3″ longer at 184.6″ vs 183.3″. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium has a 5.7″ 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: Mazda trims, Mazda CX-5 trims, Subaru trims, Subaru Forester trims
How the CX-5 and Forester Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium ($36,900) and 2026 Subaru Forester Sport ($36,105) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-795 gap is about $14/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: CX-5 vs Forester
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 7 hp difference (187 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 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium has a 5.7″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium when the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Premium is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute. Choose the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport when you want to keep $795 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Forester 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 Mazda or Subaru or any dealership.