2026 Subaru Forester Premium vs 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select
4 mpg better vs $1,395 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 180 vs 187 hp, 29 vs 25 MPG.
The Forester Premium leads on 4 MPG better. The CX-5 2.5 S Select leads on $1,395 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 | 2026 Subaru Forester Premium | 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $33,385 | $31,990 |
| 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 | 3,569 lbs | 3,856 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 110.8" |
| Length | 183.3" | 184.6" |
| Width | 72.0" | 73.2" |
| Height | 68.1" | 66.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| 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 Forester Premium and 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select starts at $31,990, $1,395 less than the 2026 Subaru Forester Premium at $33,385. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $25/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Forester Premium?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Premium is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $232/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,395 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Subaru Forester Premium or 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Premium rates 29 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Subaru Forester Premium or 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select produces 187 hp, 7 more than the 2026 Subaru Forester Premium at 180 hp. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Subaru Forester Premium runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2026 Subaru Forester Premium bigger than the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select?
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select is 1.3″ longer at 184.6″ vs 183.3″. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 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: Subaru trims, Subaru Forester trims, Mazda trims, Mazda CX-5 trims
The Forester–CX-5 Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Forester and CX-5 compare. The $-1,395 gap is about $25/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 Forester Premium runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select 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 Forester Premium saves roughly $232/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,160.
Living With the Forester vs the CX-5
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 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 Subaru Forester Premium when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $232/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select when you want to keep $1,395 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S Select 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.