SUV Comparison: Subaru Outback vs. Mazda CX-5

In a lot of ways, the 2025 Subaru Outback and 2025 Mazda CX-5 are very different SUVs. The former is practically a wagon, while the latter lives firmly in compact crossover territory. But, they have enough in common that they often both come up when discussing which is the best sporty SUV. 

If you’re located near Destin, FL and you’re shopping for a new spacious SUV with great features, let’s investigate the question of whether you should buy an Outback or a CX-5. 

Adventure Utility 

Both SUVs have a reputation for having some minor off-road chops. They both come standard with all-wheel drive, so while neither one will get you deep into the backcountry, either would feel at home in a campsite. 

The 2025 Outback has two engine options. Standard trims get a 2.5-liter BOXER® four-cylinder, which puts out 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, while the XT trims get a 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER®, which cranks out 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. 

The 2025 CX-5 has two available engines too. S trims get the SKYACTIV®-G 2.5-liter four-cylinder, which makes 187 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque, while the Turbo version gets a SKYACTIV®-G Turbo engine that creates 227 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. 

In terms of driving character, both vary quite a bit. The CX-5 has a bit more pep and agility, but the Outback’s superior suspension gives it a much smoother ride. 

The 2025 Outback also tows a lot more—standard models can pull 2,700 pounds, while the XT and Wilderness editions can pull 3,500 pounds. Unfortunately, all CX-5 models can only tow 2,000 pounds regardless of which engine you pick, which makes the Outback a much better overall choice if you hear the Great Outdoors calling your name. 

Interior Space 

One of the biggest differences between this pair of SUVs is their dimensions inside. Here’s a side-by-side comparison: 

The Outback’s passenger area is bigger in just about every way, but the real difference is in the amount of cargo it can carry. It has over 3 cubic feet behind the second row, and over 16 more cubic feet when the rear seats ae folded down, making it far more versatile for shopping, road trips, and more. 

Technology

One of the main draws of a Mazda SUV is that it boasts luxury-like amenities without the luxury price tag. All models come with a 10.25-inch center display screen, which has Bluetooth compatibility, voice command capability, access to Mazda Connected Services, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, but it’s only wireless on upper-level trims. Infotainment is also complemented with either a 4.6-inch or a 7-inch driver info display. About half of the trims also come with a premium Bose® sound system. 

The Outback Base comes with a SUBARU STARLINK® 7-inch multimedia screen, and all other trims get an 11.6-inch LCD screen. Regardless of which setup it’s packing, all models come standard with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, SiriusXM capability, and Bluetooth, and all trims above the Base get a built-in 4G Wi-Fi hotspot. Nearly all trims also come standard with a premium Harmon Kardon® sound system.

Price 

Both SUVs are available in a wide variety of trims. First, let’s check out the 2025 Outback: 

• Base: $28,895 

• Premium: $31,195 

• Onyx Edition: $36,105

• Onyx Edition XT: $39,360 

• Limited: $37,855 

• Limited XT: $40,195 

• Wilderness: $39,960 

• Touring: $40,345 

• Touring XT: $42,795 

Now, here’s the 2025 CX-5: 

• 2.5 S: $28,570 

• 2.5 S Select: $29,900 

• 2.5 S Preferred: $31,250 

• 2.5 S Carbon Edition: $32,600 

• 2.5 S Premium Plus: $35,200 

• 2.5 Carbon Turbo: $37,000 

• 2.5 Turbo Premium: $37,800 

• 2.5 Turbo Signature: $40,600 

Pricewise, they’re both pretty much neck-and-neck, with the Outback going for just slightly higher. This may seem like a raw deal for Subaru buyers, considering both SUVs come with a solid selection of comfort amenities. But, considering that the Outback is far more spacious and capable, we’d say it offers much better value. 

Find the 2025 Subaru Outback for Sale Near Shalimar, FL 

The CX-5 is a fine family vehicle with great features and fun driving dynamics, but it just doesn’t quite match the Outback’s legendary status. 

If you’re looking for a new Outback to call your own, Subaru Fort Walton Beach has monthly new vehicle specials to make sure you drive away with plenty of cash to spare for your next adventure, and our guaranteed trade-in program ensures you’ll get the most out of your old ride. 

Contact us online or give us a call at (850) 280-6264 to start shopping today.