Differences Between 2019 Mazda CX-5 & 2019 Subaru Forester

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The Forester has its loyal following, and these are motorists interested in all-wheel drive and standard safety systems. The Forester lacks engine punch, however, and it isn't as enjoyable to drive as the Mazda CX-5. Also, it lags a bit behind in the utility department. For the price paid, the 2019 Mazda CX-5 is a top pick because of its luxurious interior, available turbocharged powertrain, and towing capability.

Performance

The base engine under the hood of the 2019 Mazda CX-5 is a four-cylinder rated at 187 horsepower. Power is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. The Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trims get a turbocharged version of this engine, and this increases the output to 227 horsepower. The Mazda CX-5 is nimble, handles turns effortlessly, and boasts one of the best steering engineering designs of any small SUV. Pressure buildup as the wheel is turned makes for excellent driver control. The stance of the vehicle is perfect for handling tight turns without roll effect or tire squeal. The 2019 Subaru Forester has off-road capability thanks to its all-wheel drive system, but the weak engine, which produces on 182 horsepower and not a lot of torque, results in poor acceleration.

Interior Luxuries

The Mazda CX-5 isn't a luxury SUV by any stretch of the imagination, but the interior is comfortable and built with top-quality materials. Soft-touch surfaces are everywhere, and ergonomics are superb. The driver position is excellent, with perfect seat height and excellent outward visibility. Sound-dampening is better than average, and passengers enjoy a very quiet ride. The leather upholstery, standard on the uplevel trims, is on par with what one gets in a European luxury sedan. Standard features on the base trim includes a leather-wrapped steering wheel, 40/20/40-split reclining rear seats, Bluetooth, and two USB ports. The 2019 Subaru Forester has a comfortable, airy cabin with plenty of room for the rear-seat passengers, but it lacks the top-notch materials found inside the Mazda CX-5. The front seating area isn't as spacious, either. Some individuals feel that the seats are overpadded and too soft.

Utility

The Mazda CX-5 is touted as a driver-friendly, sporty crossover, but it can also handle its own when it comes towing or hauling a lot of cargo in the rear. With the turbocharged engine, the tow rating is in excess of 6,000 pounds, far outpacing most competitors in this segment including the Subaru Forester. Also, the Forester isn't the greatest choice for hauling around small children because the LATCH system of anchors and tethers is difficult to use, and larger rear-facing child safety seats can hardly be accommodated. The Mazda CX-5 has numerous storage pockets and cubbies that are perfectly located, and child seat accommodation in the rear seating area is more than acceptable.

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If you're considering a fuel-sipping, fun-to-drive small SUV, you'll want to check out the 2019 Mazda CX-5. See it today at Jeff Wyler Eastgate Mazda, and be sure to schedule a personal inspection and test drive to see how it compares to the Subaru Forester.