Mazda CX-5 or Subaru Crosstrek, which is better ?

[Dave Hess]

Which SUV do you like better ?

Mazda CX-5 or Subaru Crosstrek... both base models with manual transmission.
Nothing fancy as it will be a company lease and plan to purchase after lease is up.

Was thinking about Camry or Accord but need more cargo space.

 

[skyactiv]

The Mazda is a better driver I imagine.

 

[gathermewool]

The Crosstrek is literally a lifted Impreza, with some stiffening and different body cladding. If it's cargo space you want, then you should be comparing a base Forester with a base CX-5. Do you need AWD in FL? If not, then I'd got with a base, FWD CX-5.

 

[Dave Hess]

AWD not needed, manual transmission needed.

 

[horse123]

Originally Posted By: gathermewool
The Crosstrek is literally a lifted Impreza, with some stiffening and different body cladding. If it's cargo space you want, then you should be comparing a base Forester with a base CX-5. Do you need AWD in FL? If not, then I'd got with a base, FWD CX-5.


It's not a lifted impreza. There are LOTS of other changes. An important one is a bigger radiator for towing.

All I can say is my dad liked the CX5... then he drove the Crosstrek and there was no going back.

 

[ryan2022]

We drove both prior to buying a Mazda. They were honestly both good, but different. I would say that a test drive is in order.

The Subie we drove had the CVT which was ok but not mind blowing. A mazda with a stick would be a great driving car for sure.

If the AWD isn't necessary, the base CX5 can be bought without AWD. That combined with the Skyactive engine will give you noticeably better fuel economy than the Subie. Not knocking the Crosstrek, but it's a thought to consider. What I DO like about the crosstrek, is even the base model has alloys/ fog lights, and I believe heated seats. Those are nice touches.

Ryan

 

[Rand]

base forester is only about 1000$ more than crosstrek and you get alot more CUV.

30hp, 6speed, space.

I would buy a forester over a crosstrek even though the crosstrek looks better....
(oh wait I did

The forester drives like a small vehicle..very good turning radius and visibility.

 

[tomcat27]

I would select the Mazda - based on styling and long-term reliability. I know, all subjective.

 

[crazyoildude]

Subaru used to be a great vehicle but in the last 10 or so years there has been problems..

 

[HTSS_TR]

I am not into CUV/SUV but of the two I like Mazda more than Subaru.

But, you should test drive both, preferably for more than 1 hour each on various road conditions, then you will see the pros and cons of each brand and get the one you like more.

 

[AZjeff]

Quite a bit more interior volume in the CX-5 if that matters. The Subie felt small to us when we looked at it.

 

[horse123]

Originally Posted By: crazyoildude
Subaru used to be a great vehicle but in the last 10 or so years there has been problems..


Actually, the opposite is true.

They used to have head gasket issues until recently, the 2008+ and especially 2012+ models have virtually no major failure points. Oil consumption is overblown and the rate is actually lower than a lot of other vehicles no one complains about. Head gaskets are no longer an issue.

 

[badtlc]

The subaru gets a nod for its AWD.

The mazda gets a nod for its better MPGs, driving dynamics and nicer interior.

Both are great. Pick which one you like and buy it.

 

[FutureDoc]

Originally Posted By: Mr Nice
AWD not needed, manual transmission needed.


Mazda.

If AWD is not needed, I always have a harder time to justify the Subaru. Personally, I would save the money and just get the cheaper, more efficient Impreza/Mazda3 wagon. Getting a "cute ute" based off of a compact hatchback//wagon for a $2000 premium is a bit odd.

 

[SwampSurvivor]

The Mazda is more fun to drive for sure, and isn't going to be an oil burner. If AWD is not required with the manual, the CX-5 is the way to go!

 

[horse123]

People act like AWD is completely pointless in warm climates. For one thing, I can spin the tires of any fwd vehicle I've ever driven which means it's not even true for the reasons you're thinking. Another thing, ask any subaru driver and they'll tell you it was no fun to drive a fwd rental car or their wife's altima because it corners completely differently with no power to the rear wheels. Inarguably worse.

 

[SwampSurvivor]

I live in a snowy climate and I don't see a purpose for it.

If you drive something that is properly set up, it's going to be just as much fun as something AWD ... just less expensive to maintain. I invite you to drive one of these CX5s - or a Focus with the factory rear sway bar.

 

[horse123]

This is what you get when you ask this question on a forum full of ford/Mazda lovers

 

[Nate1979]

Originally Posted By: horse123
This is what you get when you ask this question on a forum full of ford/Mazda lovers and hate Subaru's.


Fixed it for you....

 

[Nick1994]

AWD in Florida?