Mazda CX-30 vs Subaru Crosstrek (XV)

[Al]

I pasted this on the XV Board.

I have had 5 Subarus, including a '19 XV and still own an '18 Forester XT. I recently bought the Mazda and thought I would write a comparison between the two. The Mazda is bottom of the line. But ofjcourse has all the safety features. My '19 XV did not have the Eyesight but my '22 Forester did.

1. I like the CVT better in the XV it is quicker. Even though my Mazda has 192 HP, the FB20 was just as quick.
2. Mazda gets 32 mpg the XV got 27.
3. The Mazda is more comfortable on a trip.
4. Handling is the same.
5. Mazda has better tires.
6. XV has better visibility.
7. Interior room is the same.
8. It appears you sit up a bit higher with the Mazda.
9. Interiors appear to have equal finishing.
10. Temp controls are better on the XV. There is no auto setting on the Mazda.
11. The hood is massively more solid and heavy on the Mazda.
12. Oil filter is underneath on the Mazda. Gotta give credit to the Subie.
13. The Mazda seemed 300 cheaper for the same trim level.
14. The Mazda is better looking IMHO.

Over all I really do prefer the Mazda. I think before you buy another XV you should at least consider the Mazda. And that is not to say the Mazda is "better" It boils down to preference.

 

[Rand]

2025 mazda is better than 2019 subaru.

I wonder if a 2025 crosstrek is better than a 2019 mazda?

 

[Jeep_Riot]

I have a 2015 Crosstrek. I’ve test driven the CX5 and the CX30.

If I were to purchase another car today it’ll be another Crosstrek.

 

[Quattro Pete]

I have a 2015 Crosstrek. I’ve test driven the CX5 and the CX30.

If I were to purchase another car today it’ll be another Crosstrek.

I've not driven the CX-30, but have driven 2023 CX-5 and 2023 Crosstrek (mine) back to back. They drive very differently - the CX-5 drives more like a truck. The Crosstrek drives more like a car. Not better or worse - personal preference really. Crosstrek has better visibility. CX-5 has more cargo space.
CX-5 has more standard equipment - things like homelink garage opener, memory seats, rear seat vents, and dual-zone climate control, and automatic lift gate were standard on a comparatively priced CX-5.

 

[PF52]

Is XV a trim level, or does it designate other changes? I like those early XV Crosstreks but I don't think they use the XV badge any longer.

 

[ARCOgraphite]

Thanks for the impressions, Al.

AFIK the Crosstrek has an aluminum hood. Nothing wrong with that. Now those fiddly prop rods are another issue ...

What are better about the tires on the Mazda? I always like the Yoko Geos on the Crosstrek Premium.

Seeing that the OP stated the "handing is the same" note that a couple psi change can make the ride go from harsh to creamy -
say 32psig rear vs 35

As far as quicker feeling on the Subaru, the tip in and cvt mini converter are tuned for a quick launch and around town responsiveness - almost to a fault on our old '17. I haven't looked at the test numbers, but the Mazda should walk the Subaru on a 0 to 85 scramble.

Plus. didn't the O.P. put too thick an oil for the first change in the Mazda? I always warn guys here you are going to get a lazy drivetrain around town if you go too thick - especially on a green engine.

Mazda looks to be solid car, but I would require a stick and AWD. But then I can stand the claustrophobic "sitting deep in a bunker" feeling with high door sills and short windows.

But I guess the big greenhouse of BMW2002 and Audi 100LS days are gone.

Al. Enjoy the Mazda!

Subarus can be irritating on the long haul. It's O.k. for my Wife but not for me to tell the truth


Tall greenhouse design

 

[Al]

Thanks for the impressions, Al.

AFIK the Crosstrek has an aluminum hood. Nothing wrong with that. Now those fiddly prop rods are another issue ...

What are better about the tires on the Mazda? I always like the Yoko Geos on the Crosstrek Premium.
Bridgestone 440. I just like them a bit better (subjective)
Seeing that the OP stated the "handing is the same" note that a couple psi change can make the ride go from harsh to creamy -
say 32psig rear vs 35

I keep my tires at 38-40 psi on both.

As far as quicker feeling on the Subaru, the tip in and cvt mini converter are tuned for a quick launch and around town responsiveness - almost to a fault on our old '17. I haven't looked at the test numbers, but the Mazda should walk the Subaru on a 0 to 85 scramble.

OK. Maybe it will beat the 2.0 not the 2.5 (probably)

Plus. didn't the O.P. put too thick an oil for the first change in the Mazda? I always warn guys here you are going to get a lazy drivetrain around town if you go too thick - especially on a green engine.
I ghanged to 30 wt at 100 miles.
Mazda looks to be solid car, but I would require a stick and AWD. But then I can stand the claustrophobic "sitting deep in a bunker" feeling with high door sills and short windows.

Had enough stick. It has a good AWD system.

Al. Enjoy the Mazda!
Will do!!
Subarus can be irritating on the long haul. It's O.k. for my Wife but not for me to tell the truth

The Forester is great. The X V sucks

 

[buster]

I like the AWD system in the Subaru better.

 

[Al]

I like the AWD system in the Subaru better.

In design it is unique and unparalled. In actual performance others can duplicate it.

 

[buster]

In design it is unique and unparalled. In actual performance others can duplicate it.

What I noticed between the Impreza and Mazda was the Subaru wouldn't slip at all. I could get the Mazda to slip a bit. The Subaru torque split among CVT models per Engineering Explained and other sources has been 60/40. The Mazda runs 99% FWD and based on wheel torque adjusts accordingly.

The Subaru just feels more planted. I also think the lower center of gravity due to boxer engine and symmetrical aspects of the AWD system account for these differences.

 

[Wheel]

Subaru's torque split is variable, it works with a variety of inputs. https://www.scoobymods.com/showthread.php/some-interesting-awd-vtd-and-3047.html
Also, http://youwheel.com/home/2016/08/07/subaru-awd-system-fully-explained/

I know these are older articles, but the newer models have built on this.

There's a fair price difference between these vehicles as well.

 

[Al]

Subaru's torque split is variable, it works with a variety of inputs. https://www.scoobymods.com/showthread.php/some-interesting-awd-vtd-and-3047.html
Also, http://youwheel.com/home/2016/08/07/subaru-awd-system-fully-explained/

I know these are older articles, but the newer models have built on this.

There's a fair price difference between these vehicles as well.

The first article is 20+ years old the second does not load

 

[Al]

What I noticed between the Impreza and Mazda was the Subaru wouldn't slip at all. I could get the Mazda to slip a bit. The Subaru torque split among CVT models per Engineering Explained and other sources has been 60/40. The Mazda runs 99% FWD and based on wheel torque adjusts accordingly.

The Subaru just feels more planted. I also think the lower center of gravity due to boxer engine and symmetrical aspects of the AWD system account for these differences.

Not arguing subaru is not the best. In normal driving (I see no difference well wee what happens in the snow. Subaru slips in the snow. I can tell you for a fact after 3 new subauus in the last 9 years. Its all about tires. The Michelin CrossClimate2s on a Mazda would outperform a subaru will normal all season tires. I have no doubt.

 

[Quattro Pete]

The Michelin CrossClimate2s on a Mazda would outperform a subaru will normal all season tires. I have no doubt.

Yup. The OEM Falkens on the Crosstrek were quiet and helped achieve good fuel economy, but were very poor in rain and snow. They got replaced with CC2 right away.

 

[buster]

 

[SubieRubyRoo]

View attachment 269984

Subaru’s systems are pretty varied in implementation, but they have differences due to the expected performance level and usage. I have had other AWDs & 4x4s and short of an old-school manual system with locking hubs & true off-road tires, the Subaru system is by far the best.

My F-150 4x4 has the e-locker, and without it engaged, on Michelin LTXs, my truck has literally gotten stuck in my yard when I’ve parked it when wet, the truck sinks in just 1/2-3/4”, just enough to make a divot, and then the grass freezes from low temps- the passenger rear tire will just sit there and spin in the divot without moving the truck. I’ve had to use the e-locker and/or 4wd in my frickin yard on the grass! The Subarus have made it through unplowed, 9” deep snow on all-seasons without missing a beat.

In normal operation for city folks, in stock configurations, IMO & IME, Subaru > everything.

 

[tbm5690]

In normal operation for city folks, in stock configurations, IMO & IME, Subaru > everything.

I agree, except for Quattro, X-drive, and SH-AWD

But seriously...isn't the WRX the only Subaru that has actual torque vectoring and doesn't just use brakes for minimizing slippage? The systems listed above are legitimate mechanical torque-vectoring systems.

 

[Al]

I agree, except for Quattro, X-drive, and SH-AWD

But seriously...isn't the WRX the only Subaru that has actual torque vectoring and doesn't just use brakes for minimizing slippage? The systems listed above are legitimate mechanical torque-vectoring systems.

It uses brakes just like every other AWD. Thats why there are other cars that can match it and Quattro is actually better. I am a Subaru fanboy but reality is reality. Now the CRV is horrible.

 

[SubieRubyRoo]

I agree, except for Quattro, X-drive, and SH-AWD

But seriously...isn't the WRX the only Subaru that has actual torque vectoring and doesn't just use brakes for minimizing slippage? The systems listed above are legitimate mechanical torque-vectoring systems.

They’ve partially nanny-pambied the systems over time due to not wanting to appear behind the times with VDC and an overly reactive system. But if you remember, I did specify normal operation for city folks. Torque vectoring rarely affects everyday driving. The Subaru systems do technically do torque vectoring on all auto trans models, but it’s just a front-rear. It’s all automatic with the variable center “diff” in the trans. The manual models other than WRXs are always 50/50.

I’m not saying the Quattro & other systems aren’t good, I’m just saying that in everyday operation, the Subaru system is just about perfect and very robust. It’s also by far the cheapest of any of those available systems.

 

[ARCOgraphite]

Never been a fan of a transverse transaxle mounts except in the littlest econo-buzz bombs - so the longitudinal DT layout of the Subaru is the bonus. It does put the engine mass in front of the front axle - ala old Audi stuff
But I was pretty impressed with the general drive and capability of our old smaller 2005 Rav 4 AWD with a 5-speed manual. Japanese built.

The Rav ended up a "fall apart car" though - lots of problems by 60K miles. "Legendary Toyota Reliability" that means All pre 2K built - not on the newer stuff, Lol.

Subaru would be nice with an old Ford./Porsche 2.5 v6 from the Contour up in the nose. Get rid of that awful boxer clang.

2005 Toyota Rav 4