 Subaru Forester |
VS |  Mazda CX-5 |
Welcome to the new 2013 Subaru Forester vs Honda CR-V comparison review. At the time of posting in February 2013 both were newly released models for the year and refinements over their prior versions.
We didn’t like the prior Subaru Forester even though many did. The main reason was that it looked and felt cheap, lacked equipment standard in other cars in the same price bracket. Due to the many specials they sold well. Thankfully the all new model rectifies all the main deficiencies and adds a few things most will appreciate. They haven’t addressed the issue of high maintenance costs over the long term…
Subaru Forester Vs Mazda CX-5 exterior: Each to there own here and while the CX-5 in our eyes does not represent any progress in design. The Forester is a step forward for Subaru but we think will age quickly. Both are not timeless or universally pleasing to the eye for example the flat fronted CX-5 and the tiny lights on the Foresters rear. Since BMW started the ugly trend years ago to stand out in a ‘bad way’ now we have these designs. We think both are OK.
Subaru Forester Vs Mazda CX-5 interior: The interior of the Forester is car like and essentially a replica of the Subaru XV which in turn looks very much like the 120 series Prado and even the Suzuki Grand Vitara. Overall it is a nice place to be now and up to date but it will look tired very quickly.
Subaru Forester Vs Mazda CX-5 engine and technology: The Forester is only comes in AWD where as you can get the Honda in 2WD or AWD models. You can argue that AWD is safer but then a properly developed car like say a BMW is only 2WD and is just as safe. The engine technology is good on both but the Subaru has the optional high performance turbo in the XT models which puts it an a entirely different category. The CVT automatic in the Subaru is also the latest trend but lets face it the reason why the CX-5 sells is because it has a regular automatic yet delivers better fuel consumption. The main problem with the CX-5 is the sluggish 2.0 engine which while economical as problems which will haunt it years to come. The added bonus is that the CX-5 high tech engine can use 91 Octane which makes it even cheaper to run.
Subaru Forester Vs Honda CRV road drive: Many say the Mazda CX-5 handles really well – we say only because it lacks power. Many say that Subaru handles well but really its AWD saves Forester from its very average suspension tune.
If you want a the option of performance but at a high price then the Forester is the small SUV to buy. If you want a city bias ‘small’ SUV than the CX-5 is the best choice. However until the larger 2.5 litre petrol engine is released it has a performance cloud hanging over its head
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| Subaru Forester | Mazda CX-5 |
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| Engines | |
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FB20 series engine FB25 series engine EE20 series engine FB20 series engine |
SKYACTIV-G SKYACTIV-D |
| Weight | |
| Kerb weight FROM 1566Kg Towing capacity up to 1800kg |
Kerb weight 1475 -1685 Kg |
| Fuel capacity & consumption | |
| Up to 60 litres FB20 2.0 Petrol 7.2 Lts per 100km AVG (CVT) FB25 2.4 Petrol 8.1 Lts per 100km AVG EE20 2.2 Turbo Diesel 5.9 Lts per 100km AVG FB20T 2.0 Turbo Petrol 8.1 Lts per 100km AVG |
56 litres – Diesel or Unleaded 91 Octane |
| Other specifications | |
| 6 speed manual or CVT Auto Overall height/width 1735/1795 Overall length/wheelbase 4595/2640 4WD system: AWD ANCAP Safety: 5/5 Tyre size: xxx |
6 Speed Auto or 6 speed manual transmission |
| Capability | |
| Angle of: (degrees) Approach xx Departure xx Breakover xx Ground clearance (unloaded) 215mm Water Fording depth xxmm Max |
Angle of: (degrees) |
| Performance | |
| FB20 Petrol 0-100kph 10.5kph secs EE20 Turbo Diesel 0-100kph 10.5 secs FB20 2.0 litre turbo petrol 0-100kph 7.5secs |
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| Pricing | |
| 2013 $30,990 – 50,490 AUD *Always check with the dealer for up to date pricing, specifications, on-road costs, accessories and specials etc.. everything as usual is subject to change! |
2012 $27,990 – 46,220 AUD |
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