2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base vs 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S
On paper, the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base wins on $2,055 less, 4 MPG better. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $2,055 price gap, 180 vs 187 hp, 29 vs 25 MPG.
The Crosstrek Base leads on $2,055 less, 4 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 Subaru Crosstrek Base | 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $26,995 | $29,050 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L flat 4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 187 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 | 23 |
| Highway MPG | 33 | 29 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 25 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.6 gal | 15.3 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,296 lbs | 3,679 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 106.2" |
| Length | 176.4" | 180.1" |
| Width | 70.9" | 72.6" |
| Height | 62.8" | 66.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| 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 Subaru Crosstrek Base and 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base starts at $26,995, $2,055 less than the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S at $29,050. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $37/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base?
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,055 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $232/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S is the stronger pick when you prefer the Mazda approach to the compact SUV segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base or 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base rates 29 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base or 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S produces 187 hp, 7 more than the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base at 180 hp. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base bigger than the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S is 3.7″ longer at 180.1″ vs 176.4″. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S has a 1.1″ 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 Crosstrek trims, Mazda trims, Mazda CX-5 trims
- 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Crosstrek–CX-5 Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Crosstrek and CX-5 compare. The $2,055 gap is about $37/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4. The 7 hp difference (187 vs 180) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base saves roughly $232/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,160. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Living With the Crosstrek vs the CX-5
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S weighs 383 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base when you want to keep $2,055 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S when you prefer the Mazda approach to the compact SUV segment. At $37/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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.