2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select vs 2026 Subaru Forester Base
On paper, the 2026 Subaru Forester Base wins on 3 MPG better. The 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $95 price gap, 187 vs 180 hp, 26 vs 29 MPG.
The Forester Base leads on 3 MPG better. 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 | 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select | 2026 Subaru Forester Base |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,900 | $29,995 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 185 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 24 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 33 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.9 gal | 16.6 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,741 lbs | 3,510 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 110.8" | 105.1" |
| Length | 185.8" | 183.3" |
| Width | 75.6" | 72.0" |
| Height | 63.5" | 68.1" |
| 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 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select and 2026 Subaru Forester Base?
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select starts at $29,900, $95 less than the 2026 Subaru Forester Base at $29,995. That gap is small enough that monthly payments are nearly identical. Focus on which vehicle fits your life, not the sticker.
Who should choose the 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select?
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select is the stronger pick when you want to keep $95 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Forester Base?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Base is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $167/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select or 2026 Subaru Forester Base?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Base rates 29 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select or 2026 Subaru Forester Base?
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select produces 187 hp, 7 more than the 2026 Subaru Forester Base at 180 hp. The 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select also leads in torque at 185 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Subaru Forester Base uses a 2.5L flat 4.
Is the 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select bigger than the 2026 Subaru Forester Base?
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select is 2.5″ longer at 185.8″ vs 183.3″. The 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select 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-50 trims, Subaru trims, Subaru Forester trims
The CX-50–Forester Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the CX-50 and Forester compare. The $95 price gap works out to less than $10/month on a typical loan, so the cost difference is negligible. Pick on fit, not on price.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Subaru Forester Base uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 7 hp difference (187 vs 180) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Subaru Forester Base saves roughly $167/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $835. The 2026 Subaru Forester Base costs more upfront but recovers some of that gap through lower running costs. At $167/year in savings, it takes about 0.6 years to close the $95 sticker difference.
Living With the CX-50 vs the Forester
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select has a 5.7″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select when you want to keep $95 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Subaru Forester Base when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $167/year less on fuel.
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.