Subaru Outback vs. Mazda CX-5: Which is the Best AWD SUV?

Some drivers need more than a vehicle that simply handles the daily commute. They want an SUV that feels comfortable in the school pickup line, offers plenty of space for a family road trip, and provides the all-weather capability needed to explore beyond paved roads.

The 2026 Subaru Outback and 2026 Mazda CX-5 both fit that description. Each comes standard with all-wheel drive, modern driver-assistance technology, and a versatile two-row interior. However, they approach the SUV experience differently.

The redesigned Mazda CX-5 emphasizes responsive handling and sophisticated styling. The redesigned Subaru Outback combines everyday comfort with greater cargo capacity, higher ground clearance, stronger available performance, and more substantial towing capability.

Which one is the better choice for SUV shoppers near Niceville, FL? Here is how the 2026 Subaru Outback compares with the 2026 Mazda CX-5.

Outback vs. CX-5 Engines and Performance

Both SUVs come standard with all-wheel drive, but the Outback gives shoppers more powertrain choices and greater capability.

2026 Subaru Outback Performance

The 2026 Outback offers two SUBARU BOXER® engine options:

2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder

• 180 horsepower
• 178 pound-feet of torque
• Up to an EPA-estimated 25 MPG city and 31 MPG highway
• Up to 2,700 pounds of towing capacity

2.4-liter turbocharged SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder

• 260 horsepower
• 277 pound-feet of torque
• Up to an EPA-estimated 21 MPG city and 29 MPG highway
• Up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity

Every Outback also includes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and X-MODE®, which work together to improve traction and control on slippery, uneven, or loose surfaces. The standard Outback offers at least 8.7 inches of ground clearance, while the adventure-focused Outback Wilderness increases that figure to 9.5 inches.

2026 Mazda CX-5 Performance

At launch, the 2026 Mazda CX-5 is equipped with one engine:

SKYACTIV®-G 2.5-liter four-cylinder

• 187 horsepower
• 186 pound-feet of torque
• Six-speed automatic transmission
• Standard i-ACTIV AWD®
• Up to 2,000 pounds of towing capacity

The CX-5 delivers responsive handling and a composed on-road driving experience. However, unlike the previous model, the redesigned 2026 CX-5 does not initially offer the former turbocharged engine option. Mazda has announced that an electrified SKYACTIV-Z powertrain is expected to join the lineup at a later date.

Which SUV Offers Better Performance?

The CX-5 has slightly more horsepower than the Outback’s standard engine, but the Outback provides considerably more flexibility.

Drivers can choose the fuel-efficient 2.5-liter engine for everyday travel or upgrade to the 260-horsepower turbocharged engine for stronger acceleration and towing performance. With as much as 3,500 pounds of towing capacity, the Outback can tow up to 1,500 pounds more than the CX-5.

The Outback also offers greater ground clearance and a more robust selection of traction-management features. That makes it the more capable option for drivers who frequently travel on dirt roads, visit campsites, tow recreational equipment, or encounter challenging weather.

Outback vs. CX-5 Interior and Cargo Space

Both vehicles were redesigned for 2026 with more spacious interiors, but the Outback remains the stronger choice for drivers who regularly carry passengers and gear.

The new Outback offers up to 112.3 cubic feet of passenger volume, creating a comfortable cabin for five occupants. Its raised roofline also provides a more open interior and additional room for taller or bulkier cargo.

2026 Subaru Outback Cargo Space

The Outback provides:

• 34.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats
• Up to 80.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded
• A wider 43.3-inch cargo floor
• A cargo area that is two inches taller than the previous generation

The redesigned CX-5 is 4.5 inches longer than its predecessor and offers improved rear-seat comfort, larger door openings, and a more useful cargo area. These changes make it easier to install child seats, accommodate rear passengers, and load everyday items.

However, the Outback’s longer and more versatile cargo area gives it the advantage when carrying camping supplies, sports equipment, luggage, pet crates, strollers, or home improvement materials.

The Outback also features raised ladder-style roof rails. Depending on the trim, these rails provide additional flexibility for transporting bicycles, kayaks, cargo carriers, and other oversized equipment.

Outback vs. CX-5 Technology

The redesigned 2026 Outback introduces a more modern and user-friendly cabin.

Every model features:

• 12.1-inch Subaru Multimedia touchscreen
• 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
• Wireless Apple CarPlay®
• Wireless Android Auto™
• Physical controls for frequently used climate functions
• Available wireless device charging
• Available Harman Kardon® premium audio
• Available navigation
• Available SUBARU STARLINK® connected services

The new horizontal touchscreen replaces the previous Outback’s portrait-style display. Subaru also returned several climate and vehicle controls to physical buttons, allowing drivers to make common adjustments without navigating through multiple on-screen menus.

The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is also significantly more advanced than the model it replaces. Depending on the trim, it offers:

• 12.9-inch touchscreen
• Available 15.6-inch touchscreen
• Google built-in
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• 10.25-inch digital driver display
• Available wireless charging
• Available Bose® premium audio
• Available head-up display
• Available panoramic sunroof

The CX-5’s available 15.6-inch display is larger, while its Google built-in system provides convenient access to Google Maps, Google Assistant functions, and compatible apps.

Both SUVs offer excellent connectivity, but the Outback provides its 12.1-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster across the lineup. That gives Outback shoppers a consistent and well-equipped technology experience without requiring the highest trim level.

Outback vs. CX-5 Safety Features

Safety is a priority in both SUVs. The Mazda CX-5 includes a comprehensive collection of standard and available i-ACTIVSENSE® driver-assistance technologies, while the Outback comes standard with an upgraded version of Subaru EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology.

2026 Subaru Outback Safety Technology

Available Outback safety and driver-assistance features include:

• Pre-Collision Braking
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Lane Centering
• Lane Departure and Sway Warning
• Lane Keep Assist
• Blind-Spot Detection
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• Reverse Automatic Braking
• Automatic Emergency Steering
• DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation System
• Available Highway Hands-Free Assist
• Available Emergency Stop Assist with Safe Lane Selection

Reverse Automatic Braking, Blind-Spot Warning and Rear Cross-Traffic Warning are now standard throughout the 2026 Outback lineup. The available Emergency Stop Assist system can also recognize when a driver becomes unresponsive, help bring the vehicle to a controlled stop, activate the hazard lights, and contact emergency assistance when appropriate.

2026 Mazda CX-5 Safety Technology

Standard or available CX-5 features include:

• Mazda Radar Cruise Control
• Smart Brake Support
• Blind Spot Monitoring
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• Lane Departure Warning
• Lane Keep Assist
• Driver Attention Alert
• Available Front Cross Traffic Alert and Braking
• Available 360° View Monitor
• Available Cruising and Traffic Support
• Available driver-monitoring technology

The CX-5 offers an impressive range of driver-assistance systems, particularly on its upper trims. However, the Outback stands out with an extensive list of standard safety features and available systems specifically designed to respond when the driver is distracted or experiences a medical emergency.

Why Choose the 2026 Subaru Outback?

The redesigned Mazda CX-5 is stylish, comfortable and enjoyable to drive, but the Subaru Outback offers more of the versatility that active families and adventurous drivers need.

The 2026 Outback provides:

• Two available engine options
• Up to 260 horsepower
• Up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity
• Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
• Standard X-MODE
• At least 8.7 inches of ground clearance
• Up to 80.5 cubic feet of cargo space
• Standard 12.1-inch touchscreen
• Standard 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
• An upgraded suite of EyeSight safety technologies

From weekday errands and daily commutes to vacations, camping trips and weekends on the water, the Outback is designed to handle a wider range of activities. It delivers the comfort expected from a family SUV while preserving the capability and cargo versatility that have made the Outback a favorite among outdoor-minded drivers.

Find a 2026 Subaru Outback Near Niceville, FL

Experience the comfort, technology and all-weather capability of the redesigned 2026 Subaru Outback at Step One Subaru Fort Walton Beach.

Explore our available Outback models online, review current new-vehicle specials and lease offers, or visit us for a test drive at 916 Beal Parkway, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547.

Contact our team online or call (850) 716-1400 to learn more about finding a new Subaru Outback near Niceville, Destin or Shalimar, FL.