Mazda CX-5 vs Subaru Forester Canada: Which SUV Wins?

Choosing between the Mazda CX-5 and Subaru Forester in Canada is a bit like deciding between a tailored winter coat and a rugged technical parka. Both will keep us comfortable when the weather turns nasty, but they approach the job from completely different angles.

The Mazda CX-5 is the sharper, more polished choice. It feels upscale, responds eagerly and brings a touch of personality to an SUV category that can sometimes feel as exciting as a waiting room. The Subaru Forester, meanwhile, is spacious, practical and unapologetically built for Canadian conditions. It gives us excellent visibility, generous cargo capacity and an all-wheel-drive system with a strong reputation among drivers who regularly face snow, gravel and cottage roads.

For the 2026 model year, the comparison becomes especially interesting. Mazda has introduced a redesigned third-generation CX-5 with more interior space, updated technology and standard all-wheel drive. Subaru offers the regular Forester alongside an available Forester Hybrid, broadening its appeal for drivers who prioritize fuel economy.

So, which compact SUV deserves a place in our Canadian driveway? Let us compare pricing, performance, winter capability, comfort, cargo room, technology and ownership priorities.

Mazda CX-5 vs Subaru Forester Canada at a Glance

Before getting buried in numbers, here is the basic personality of each SUV:

Category	Mazda CX-5	Subaru Forester
Overall character	Refined and driver-focused	Practical and adventure-ready
Drivetrain	Standard AWD	Standard AWD
Transmission	Conventional automatic	Lineartronic CVT
Cabin style	Clean and upscale	Functional and spacious
Passenger visibility	Good	Excellent
Cargo practicality	Competitive	Generally stronger
Driving feel	Sportier and more composed	Softer and more relaxed
Winter appeal	Confident road manners	Strong traction and clearance
Hybrid option	Not currently offered	Available
Best suited to	Urban and highway drivers	Families and outdoor lifestyles

The CX-5 feels like the SUV we choose because we enjoy driving. The Forester feels like the SUV we choose because life throws bicycles, snowstorms, muddy boots and bulky hardware-store purchases at us.

Neither philosophy is wrong. The right one depends on how we actually use our vehicle.

What Is New for the 2026 Mazda CX-5?

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is not merely a light refresh. It represents the third generation of the model and arrives with a larger body, a more spacious cabin and updated technology.

Mazda says the new CX-5 continues with five seats and standard all-wheel drive. Canadian trims include GX, GS, GT and GT Premium configurations. The official starting MSRP is $36,300 for the GX, followed by $39,200 for the GS and $42,200 for the GT. Optional packages push higher trims further up the price ladder before freight, taxes and dealer charges.

That price increase reflects the CX-5’s move toward a more substantial and modern package. It is no longer trying to be the smallest, lightest dancer in the room. Mazda has given it more shoulder room without completely abandoning the responsive road manners that made previous versions popular.

A More Spacious Mazda

Older CX-5 models sometimes felt tight in the rear seats and cargo area compared with class leaders. The redesigned version addresses that weakness by expanding the vehicle and opening up the passenger compartment.

That matters in Canada, where our vehicles often carry far more than passengers. Winter jackets consume shoulder space. Child seats occupy a surprising amount of room. Hockey bags appear to have been designed by people who hate compact vehicles.

The larger CX-5 should therefore suit families better than its predecessor while preserving a more intimate, cockpit-like driving position than the Forester.

What Does the 2026 Subaru Forester Offer?

The Subaru Forester continues to lean into its traditional strengths: standard symmetrical all-wheel drive, excellent outward visibility, a roomy cabin and a practical upright shape.

The conventional Forester uses Subaru’s familiar horizontally opposed engine and Lineartronic continuously variable transmission. Drivers can also consider the 2026 Forester Hybrid Premier, which combines a 2.5-litre e-BOXER hybrid powertrain with a lithium-ion battery and produces a net system output of 194 horsepower.

Rather than chasing sports-car responses, the Forester focuses on making daily life easier. Its doors open generously. Its roofline stays high. Its windows are broad. Its cargo opening is useful rather than dramatically styled.

That may not set our pulse racing in a showroom, but practicality has a way of becoming beautiful when we are loading groceries in freezing rain.

Canadian Pricing and Overall Value

The CX-5’s official 2026 Canadian pricing starts at $36,300 before destination fees, taxes and other charges. Mazda lists the GS at $39,200, the GT at $42,200, a GT with the Panoramic Roof Package at $44,200 and the GT Premium Package at $46,700.

Subaru pricing can vary by trim, destination charge, region and configuration, so buyers should compare current all-in figures through Subaru Canada or a local retailer rather than relying solely on an advertised base price. The same caution applies to Mazda: MSRP is only the opening chapter, not the final bill.

Which SUV Gives Us More for the Money?

Value depends on what we consider valuable.

The CX-5 may justify its price through:

• A more premium-looking cabin
• A conventional automatic transmission
• More engaging handling
• Clean exterior styling
• A quieter, more polished road personality

The Forester may deliver greater value through:

• Excellent passenger space
• Better outward visibility
• Practical cargo access
• Strong all-weather credentials
• An available hybrid powertrain
• An outdoors-oriented design

A driver who spends most of the week commuting around Toronto, Montréal, Vancouver or Calgary may appreciate Mazda’s refinement every single day. A family travelling through rural Ontario, northern Alberta or snowy parts of Quebec may find the Forester’s space and all-terrain confidence more valuable.

Engine Performance and Acceleration

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 uses a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with a conventional automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. Mazda has focused less on dramatic output figures and more on predictable throttle response and smooth everyday operation.

The regular Forester also relies on a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, but Subaru pairs it with a Lineartronic CVT. The hybrid version increases total system output to 194 horsepower and uses a dedicated hybrid transaxle.

Mazda’s Conventional Automatic Advantage

Many drivers prefer the CX-5’s conventional automatic because it changes gears in recognizable steps. Acceleration tends to feel more natural, particularly when merging, passing or climbing a hill.

A CVT can hold the engine at a constant speed while the vehicle accelerates. That behaviour is efficient, but it can create a droning sensation under heavy throttle. Subaru uses simulated ratios on some Forester configurations to make the experience feel more familiar, yet the Mazda generally remains the more satisfying vehicle for drivers who notice these details.

Does the Forester Feel Slow?

The regular Forester is adequate rather than energetic. It moves through city traffic without trouble and cruises comfortably on the highway, but it is not the SUV we buy for dramatic acceleration.

That calmer character may be perfectly acceptable for family use. The accelerator is progressive, the power delivery is predictable and the vehicle does not encourage us to drive as though every highway ramp is a qualifying lap.

The hybrid’s extra system output should provide a more responsive feel in everyday situations, particularly from lower speeds, although it is primarily designed to improve efficiency rather than transform the Forester into a performance SUV.

Driving Experience: Sporty or Relaxed?

Here we reach the clearest difference.

The Mazda CX-5 is the driver’s SUV. Its steering tends to feel more precise, its body stays better controlled through corners and its chassis communicates what is happening beneath the tires. Even during an ordinary commute, it feels alert.

The Forester is softer and more relaxed. It prioritizes visibility, comfort and ease of use. Its tall body can feel less planted through quick direction changes, but that upright design gives passengers more air and makes the cabin easier to navigate.

Why the Mazda Feels More Premium

Premium quality is not only about leather or screen size. It is also about how a vehicle responds.

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In the CX-5, the controls tend to move with deliberate weight. Steering inputs feel connected. The suspension settles quickly after a bump. The cabin creates the impression that Mazda’s engineers cared about the half-second between turning the wheel and feeling the vehicle respond.

It is like comparing a firm handshake with a friendly wave. Both communicate, but one feels more intentional.

Why the Subaru Feels Easier to Live With

The Forester’s magic is less obvious during a ten-minute test drive. Its advantages appear over weeks and months.

We notice how easily we can see traffic at an intersection. We appreciate the tall side windows when backing out of a crowded parking space. Passengers enjoy the open cabin. Loading a dog, stroller or flat-pack bookshelf becomes less of a geometric puzzle.

The Forester may not charm us immediately, but it often wins affection through usefulness.

All-Wheel Drive and Canadian Winter Performance

Both vehicles come with standard all-wheel drive in Canada, which makes this comparison especially relevant for winter drivers.

Mazda’s i-Activ AWD system is designed to monitor road conditions and distribute power as needed. It works particularly well for changing pavement conditions, wet highways and packed snow.

Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive layout is central to the Forester’s identity. Its balanced drivetrain and available X-Mode functions are designed to support traction on snow, mud and loose surfaces.

Which One Is Better in Deep Snow?

The Forester usually has the conceptual advantage when conditions become rougher. Its useful ground clearance, upright body and off-road-oriented controls make it better suited to deeper snow, unplowed cottage roads and uneven trails.

The CX-5 remains a capable winter vehicle, especially when equipped with proper winter tires. On plowed roads and icy highways, its controlled chassis can feel reassuring and stable.

The critical phrase is proper winter tires. All-wheel drive helps us accelerate, but it does not shorten braking distance nearly as much as suitable tires do. A front-wheel-drive vehicle on high-quality winter tires can stop and turn more effectively than an AWD vehicle wearing unsuitable all-season rubber.

Best Choice for Canadian Winter Conditions

Choose the Forester when:

• Roads are frequently unplowed
• We visit cottages or trailheads
• Ground clearance matters
• Winter visibility is a priority
• We regularly encounter mud, gravel or deep snow

Choose the CX-5 when:

• Most winter driving occurs on maintained roads
• Highway stability matters most
• We want AWD without sacrificing handling
• Our routine is primarily urban or suburban

Fuel Economy and the Forester Hybrid Factor

Fuel consumption varies by trim, wheel size, drivetrain calibration, temperature and driving style. Official Canadian figures should therefore be checked for the exact model being considered.

Mazda advertises highway consumption as low as approximately 7.7 to 7.9 L/100 km for certain CX-5 configurations, while actual combined consumption will be higher.

The regular Forester competes within the same general compact-SUV efficiency range. The major difference is Subaru’s available hybrid model, which gives high-mileage drivers another option.

Will a Hybrid Save Us Money?

Possibly, but we should do the arithmetic rather than assuming the answer.

A hybrid makes the most sense when we:

• Drive many kilometres each year
• Spend significant time in stop-and-go traffic
• Keep vehicles for a long period
• Can recover the higher purchase price through fuel savings
• Value reduced fuel use beyond the financial calculation

Highway drivers may see a smaller advantage because hybrid systems generally gain their largest efficiency benefits in urban conditions, where regenerative braking can recover energy.

Canadian winters also influence real-world economy. Cold starts, cabin heating, winter tires, thick fluids and snow-covered roads all raise consumption. No official rating can perfectly recreate a February morning in Winnipeg.

Interior Design and Material Quality

The Mazda CX-5 has traditionally held an advantage in perceived cabin quality, and the redesigned model continues to target a refined atmosphere.

Mazda uses a horizontal layout, thoughtful trim and a driver-centred seating position. The result feels cohesive rather than assembled from unrelated components. Higher trims move closer to entry-level luxury territory without adopting an entry-level luxury price.

The Forester’s interior is more functional. Controls are placed for easy access, visibility is excellent and the upright body creates a sense of space. It may not feel as elegant, but it is less likely to make us wonder where to place a muddy pair of gloves.

Front-Seat Comfort

Both SUVs provide supportive seating, but their driving positions differ.

The CX-5 places us more deeply inside the cabin. The dashboard and centre console wrap around the driver, creating a car-like environment.

The Forester seats us more upright, with a commanding view of the road. Drivers who struggle with low roofs, narrow windows or difficult entry may find the Subaru more comfortable.

Body shape matters. A vehicle can earn excellent reviews and still feel wrong for a particular driver. A long test drive is more useful than ten paragraphs of seat commentary.

Rear-Seat Space

The redesigned CX-5 offers more cabin room than before, reducing one of the previous generation’s main disadvantages. Mazda specifically positions the new model as a larger and more versatile compact SUV.

Even so, the Forester’s square proportions remain naturally suited to rear passengers. The roof does not drop aggressively, the windows are large and the seating area feels open.

Families using rear-facing child seats should bring the actual seat to the dealership. Published measurements rarely explain how a particular child seat affects front-passenger legroom.

Cargo Space and Everyday Practicality

The Forester’s boxy shape is its secret weapon. Cargo space is not merely about a litre figure; the shape of that space determines what we can carry.

A tall, square cargo bay is easier to use than a stylish compartment with sloping sides. The Subaru’s hatch opening, roofline and upright rear structure make it friendly to dogs, camping equipment and bulky items.

The CX-5’s expanded body improves practicality considerably, but Mazda still gives design and proportion more attention. It should satisfy most households, yet the Forester remains the intuitive choice when cargo flexibility sits near the top of the shopping list.

Which SUV Is Better for Dogs?

The Forester generally makes more sense for dog owners because of its tall cargo area, generous glass and accessible opening. Large dogs have more room to stand, while the airy cabin can feel less enclosed.

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The Mazda works well for smaller dogs or owners who use the rear seats. Its quieter, more composed ride may also help nervous animals during longer journeys.

Use a secured crate, harness or barrier rather than allowing a pet to move freely through the cabin.

Which SUV Is Better for Camping?

The Forester wins for traditional camping, especially when campsites involve rough access roads, mud or bulky equipment.

The CX-5 is still perfectly capable of carrying tents, coolers and sleeping bags, but it feels more at home gliding along the highway toward a hotel, vineyard or well-maintained campground.

That is not criticism. Sometimes we want the hiking boot; sometimes we want the comfortable travel shoe.

Infotainment and Technology

The 2026 CX-5 introduces updated cabin technology and a more modern interface. Available equipment varies by trim and package, so buyers should verify which screen, audio system, smartphone integration features and driver displays come with the exact configuration.

The Forester likewise offers modern connectivity, available digital instrumentation and a suite of convenience features. The Forester Hybrid Premier includes a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster as part of its technology package.

Touchscreens Versus Physical Controls

Modern vehicles increasingly place climate, audio and vehicle settings inside a central display. That can create a clean dashboard, but simplicity on a showroom floor is not always simplicity at 100 km/h.

We should test common tasks:

1. Adjust the cabin temperature.
2. Turn on the heated steering wheel.
3. Change the fan speed.
4. Enter a navigation destination.
5. Switch driver-assistance settings.
6. Connect a phone.
7. Mute audio quickly.

The better system is the one we can operate without staring away from the road.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Both Mazda and Subaru equip their compact SUVs with extensive active-safety technology. Depending on trim, these systems may include automatic emergency braking, lane-departure assistance, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alerts.

Subaru’s EyeSight system is one of the brand’s defining features, using forward-facing cameras and supporting hardware to monitor traffic and lane position.

Mazda groups many of its safety functions under the i-Activsense name. The 2026 CX-5 also offers systems such as Mazda Radar Cruise Control, High Beam Control and Cruising and Traffic Support on applicable configurations.

Visibility Is a Safety Feature Too

The Forester deserves particular praise for passive visibility. Large windows, relatively thin pillars and an upright seating position help the driver understand what surrounds the vehicle.

Electronic cameras and sensors are useful, but clear glass never needs a software update.

The CX-5’s styling creates a more enclosed and substantial feeling. It still provides good visibility by modern SUV standards, although the Forester remains the benchmark for drivers who want an open view.

Ride Comfort and Highway Refinement

The CX-5’s suspension generally controls body movement more tightly. That creates a confident highway feel, especially during lane changes and long bends.

The price of that control can be a firmer reaction over broken pavement, particularly with larger wheels. Canadian roads do not always reward low-profile tires. Spring potholes can turn a handsome wheel-and-tire package into an expensive lesson.

The Forester usually feels softer. Its suspension allows more body movement but absorbs rough surfaces with a relaxed attitude. On badly maintained streets or gravel roads, that softness can become an advantage.

Noise Levels on Long Trips

Mazda’s premium ambitions are apparent in its approach to cabin isolation. The CX-5 is likely to appeal to drivers who value a subdued atmosphere and a solid highway feel.

The Forester’s large windows and upright shape contribute to its spaciousness but can allow more wind and road noise, depending on trim, wheel size and road surface.

A test drive should include highway speeds. Many vehicles feel quiet around a dealership and reveal an entirely different personality once the tires meet coarse Canadian asphalt.

Reliability and Long-Term Ownership

Mazda and Subaru both have loyal Canadian followings, but no modern vehicle is immune to wear, software issues or expensive components.

Long-term cost depends on:

• Maintenance history
• Driving conditions
• Annual mileage
• Rust prevention
• Tire replacement
• Insurance rates
• Dealer labour charges
• Powertrain complexity
• How long we keep the vehicle

The naturally aspirated CX-5 powertrain and conventional automatic may appeal to drivers who prefer familiar mechanical solutions. The Forester’s CVT and boxer engine have their own maintenance requirements, while the hybrid adds electrical components but may reduce fuel use and some forms of engine load.

Rust Protection in Canada

Rust prevention deserves more attention than it usually receives in comparison articles.

Road salt, moisture and freeze-thaw cycles attack underbody components. Regardless of which SUV we choose, sensible ownership includes:

• Washing the underbody during winter
• Repairing paint chips promptly
• Inspecting wheel arches and door seams
• Following manufacturer maintenance guidance
• Considering appropriate corrosion protection
• Keeping drainage channels clear

A reliable vehicle can become an unreliable vehicle when corrosion is allowed to work quietly for ten winters.

Mazda CX-5 vs Subaru Forester Insurance Costs

Insurance prices cannot be compared accurately without personal quotes. Premiums vary by province, postal code, driving history, trim, annual mileage, coverage level and insurer.

A more expensive trim may cost more to repair because of larger wheels, cameras, sensors, lighting systems and premium interior components. Hybrid-specific components can also influence repair estimates, although that does not automatically make a hybrid more expensive to insure.

We should obtain quotes for the exact vehicle identification or trim before signing a purchase agreement. A difference of even $30 per month becomes $1,800 over five years.

Towing and Recreational Use

Neither vehicle is intended to replace a pickup truck or large body-on-frame SUV. They are compact crossovers designed for moderate loads.

Towing capacity can vary by model year, powertrain, market and installed equipment. Buyers should consult the Canadian owner’s manual and official specifications for the exact trim, then account for passengers, cargo, hitch equipment and tongue weight.

For bicycles, skis, kayaks and small utility needs, roof racks or hitch-mounted carriers may be more practical than a trailer.

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The Forester’s adventure-oriented shape makes it a natural base for outdoor accessories. The CX-5 handles recreational duties too, but its sleeker profile gives it a more road-focused identity.

Which One Is Better for City Driving?

The Mazda CX-5 is our preferred city choice.

Its controlled handling, natural transmission behaviour and refined cabin make routine journeys feel more enjoyable. The redesigned body is larger than before, but the CX-5 still maintains a tidy, driver-oriented character.

The Forester counters with superior visibility. Navigating crowded intersections, tight parking lots and bicycle-heavy streets can feel easier when we can see more of the environment.

Therefore, the decision depends on what frustrates us most. Choose Mazda when dull driving bothers us. Choose Subaru when limited visibility bothers us.

Which One Is Better for Families?

The Forester is the stronger all-round family tool.

Its roomy rear seats, tall cabin, wide-opening doors and useful cargo shape simplify school runs and weekend travel. Children can see through the large windows, while adults benefit from easier entry.

The CX-5 is the better choice for a smaller family that places more value on cabin quality and driving enjoyment. Its increased 2026 dimensions make it more family-friendly than the previous model, narrowing the practicality gap.

Which One Is Better for Retired Drivers?

The Forester may suit retired drivers particularly well because of its upright seating position, excellent visibility and straightforward access.

Drivers with knee, hip or back concerns may appreciate not having to drop down into the seat. The tall glass also reduces the need to twist around as much when checking surroundings, although cameras and blind-spot systems remain valuable.

The CX-5 offers a quieter, more elegant experience and may appeal to drivers who take frequent highway trips. The right choice depends less on age and more on mobility, preferred seating position and driving environment.

Mazda CX-5 Advantages

The CX-5 makes the strongest case through emotion and refinement.

Its key advantages include:

• More engaging steering and handling
• Conventional automatic transmission
• Premium cabin presentation
• Composed highway behaviour
• Standard all-wheel drive
• Attractive exterior design
• Improved space for the redesigned generation

It is the compact SUV for people who need practicality but are not ready to surrender the pleasure of driving.

Mazda CX-5 Disadvantages

No vehicle wins every category.

Potential CX-5 drawbacks include:

• Less boxy cargo space than the Forester
• More enclosed outward visibility
• Firmer ride with larger wheels
• No current hybrid alternative
• Higher trims can become expensive
• Greater emphasis on style than maximum utility

Drivers who regularly fill every centimetre of the cargo area may find the Mazda’s elegance less useful than the Subaru’s square shape.

Subaru Forester Advantages

The Forester’s strongest qualities are rooted in everyday usefulness.

Its advantages include:

• Excellent outward visibility
• Spacious rear seating
• Practical cargo area
• Standard all-wheel drive
• Strong winter and light-trail credentials
• Comfortable upright driving position
• Available hybrid powertrain
• Family-friendly access

It is an SUV that seems to ask, “What are we carrying today?” and then quietly makes room.

Subaru Forester Disadvantages

The Forester also requires compromises:

• Less engaging handling
• CVT behaviour may not suit every driver
• Cabin design is more functional than luxurious
• Acceleration is adequate rather than exciting
• Boxy styling may not appeal to everyone
• Softer suspension allows more body movement

The Subaru is wonderfully sensible, but sensible vehicles do not always make us turn around for one last look after parking.

Which Trim Should We Choose?

For the Mazda, the mid-level GS is likely to offer the most balanced package for many Canadian buyers. It sits above the entry GX without immediately entering the more expensive GT package range. Buyers seeking leather-like materials, premium audio or additional convenience features may prefer the GT.

For the Forester, the ideal trim depends heavily on whether we want the conventional gasoline powertrain or the hybrid. A mid-range gasoline trim may provide the best blend of equipment and price, while the Hybrid Premier targets buyers willing to pay more for electrification and premium technology.

Do not automatically buy the largest wheels or every available package. Smaller wheels often provide:

• Lower replacement tire costs
• Better pothole resistance
• More sidewall cushioning
• Improved winter comfort
• A wider choice of winter tires

A spectacular wheel design loses some charm when one damaged tire costs enough to ruin the weekend.

Mazda CX-5 vs Subaru Forester Canada: Our Verdict

The Mazda CX-5 wins for driving enjoyment, cabin ambience and highway refinement. It feels more deliberate, more polished and more emotionally satisfying. The redesigned 2026 model also addresses previous concerns about interior space, making it a stronger all-round competitor.

The Subaru Forester wins for visibility, cargo practicality, family use and rough-weather versatility. It is the easier vehicle to recommend to drivers who regularly carry people, pets or outdoor equipment. Its available hybrid also gives efficiency-conscious Canadian shoppers an option Mazda currently lacks.

Choose the Mazda CX-5 When:

• We enjoy a responsive driving experience
• Interior quality matters
• Most driving occurs on paved roads
• We prefer a conventional automatic
• Highway refinement is a priority
• We want practicality without a boxy design

Choose the Subaru Forester When:

• Passenger and cargo space matter most
• We regularly drive in deep snow
• Visibility is a major concern
• We camp, hike or visit rural areas
• We carry dogs or bulky equipment
• We want an available hybrid

The Final Decision

There is no universal champion because these SUVs solve different versions of the same problem.

The CX-5 asks us to enjoy the journey. The Forester asks us to bring everything we might need when we arrive.

For urban couples, smaller families and drivers who care about steering feel, the Mazda CX-5 is our preferred choice. For active families, pet owners and Canadians facing rougher roads or heavier winters, the Subaru Forester is the more versatile companion.

Test-drive both on the same day. Sit in the rear seats. Load the stroller. Connect the phone. Try the controls. Drive over rough pavement. The better SUV will often reveal itself before we return to the dealership.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the Mazda CX-5 better than the Subaru Forester in Canada?

The CX-5 is better for drivers who prioritize handling, refinement and premium cabin quality. The Forester is better for cargo space, outward visibility, family practicality and rough-weather use.

2. Which is better in Canadian snow, the CX-5 or Forester?

Both have standard all-wheel drive, but the Forester generally has an advantage in deeper snow and on rough roads because of its ground clearance, visibility and adventure-oriented traction features. Winter tires remain essential for either SUV.

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3. Which SUV has more cargo space?

The Subaru Forester is generally the more practical cargo carrier because of its tall, square body and wide cargo opening. The redesigned 2026 CX-5 offers improved space but retains a sleeker shape.

4. Is the Subaru Forester more fuel-efficient than the Mazda CX-5?

The gasoline versions compete within a similar general range, although exact results depend on trim and driving conditions. The available Forester Hybrid should offer a stronger efficiency advantage, particularly in urban driving.

5. Which SUV is likely to feel more comfortable on long trips?

The CX-5 may feel quieter and more composed on smooth highways, while the Forester offers a more spacious cabin, upright seating and excellent visibility. Drivers should test both because seat comfort is highly personal.