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Welcome to the new Subaru Outback vs Mazda CX-5 comparison for 2019. Next in the series of Subaru Outback Vs the rest, based on overlapping price rather than the common and antiquated size comparison. We compare the Outback and the Mazda CX-5. Comparing by size is a very pre-2010 focus since many traditional name plates that went buy size no longer applies. Eg. The Honda Civic is no longer physically a small car. We found it strange that many people believe the marketing from Subaru that the Outback is an off road weapon but in reality there’ not much ground clearance, no low range, minimal over ramp angle, minimal water forging, CVT gearbox that’s tuned for fuel economy…
Subaru Outback vs Mazda CX-5 exterior design : The Mazda CX-5 is better looking in every way on the outside. We feel it does sell on it’s exterior looks but there is more than that to this model. We noticed that in some parts of the world many think the CX-5 design is too outrageous. In comparison the Outback exterior is on the conservative side and deliberately uglyfied to attract a certain type of buyer.
Subaru Outback vs Mazda CX-5 interior: The interior of the base CX-5 is good for the price but the top range CX-5 with the lighter colour leather trim looks and feels a level above the price range for 2019. It may look sleek on the outside but it’s not too compromised on the inside with more SUV style seating in the front but average space in the rear. The Subaru Outback’s interior is good enough for the price range and the materials may be of slightly less quality to the CX-5, but it is the aged interior design that sets it back the most. It’s car style seating makes it awkward to get in at times but there is plenty of space once in side. It’s feels good but not as nice as the CX-5.
Subaru Outback vs Mazda CX-5 engines and technology: The CX-5 has three very good engine options, in particular the turbo petrol version and is the pick for performance. Admittedly the base model’s 2.0 litre 4 should be dropped. It also has the nicer sounding stereo system and infotainment system. The Outback has an under average sounding stereo system as standard requiring you get the Harmon Kardon option if even possible. The Outback’s engine choices are all but average except for the 6 cylinder petrol. System systems are dependent on model grade but we think the Outback has more with pedestrian safety. The CVT in the Outback is very good for a CVT but a normal geared automatic as in the CX-5 will always be better.
Subaru Outback vs Mazda CX-5 engines Street Cred: The Subaru brand used to be niche, having an air of exclusivity. Subaru was considered by many people as the Saab of the Japanese manufacturers. However that’s changed and any Subaru is now too common to have any brand kudos it previously enjoyed. It’s just a car with an AWD system. Specific to the Outback is the image of an older owner. The CX-5 is still regarded as a nice drive and good value, it’s desirability enhanced by it’s sleek exterior design clearly aimed at younger buyers.
The conclusion to the new Subaru Outback vs Mazda CX-5 comparison is so conditional that it’s a draw. Why? Each model has it’s pros and cons. We guess it would be the the purpose you are buying something like this. Both have AWD dependent on model grade (standard on the Subaru) so slippery roads are not a problem but the Subaru has AWD all the time hence if you are not a confident or experienced driver than the Outback is definitely for you. The traditional size factor is another consideration but then there are much bigger cars and SUVs for the same price – hence this series of comparisons. Regardless the CX-5 has a plenty of space too. We still have an issue with the way the Outback drives it’s understeer monster, not fun at all. Every CX-5 we’ve driven has been in is a step above the Outback. It is the standard stereo system in the Outback which is sub-standard and counts quite badly against it. You had better listen to it before buying is it’s very hard to replace and you are stuck with generally unsatisfactory sound. You need to option it with the Harmon Kardon system if possible else you will regret it. The CX-5 has the better stereo system regardless of model grade although it is best to get the BOSE equipped model if possible.
| Subaru Outback | Mazda CX-5 |
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| Engines | |
| IL4 Cylinder Petrol DOHC 16 Valve VVT 2.5 Litre (2459cc) Claimed 129Kw @ 5800 RPM Claimed 235Nm @ 4000 RPM |
IL 4 Cylinder Petrol DOHC EFI VVT 2.0 Litre (1996cc) Claimed 114Kw @ 6000RPM Claimed 200Nm @ 4000RPM |
| IL4 Cylinder Diesel Turbo DI CR 2.0 Litre (1990cc) Claimed 110Kw @ 3600 RPM Claimed 350Nm @ 1600 RPM |
IL4 Cylinder Petrol 2.5 Litre (2488cc) DOHC Engine EFI Claimed 138Kw @ 5700RPM Claimed 250Nm @ 4000RPM |
| F6 Cylinder Petrol DOHC 16 Valve 3.6 Litre (3590cc) Claimed 191Kw @ 6000 RPM Claimed 350Nm @ 4400 RPM |
IL 4 Cylinder Twin Turbo Diesel DI CR EFI 2.2 Litre (2191cc) Claimed 129Kw @ 4500RPM Claimed 420Nm @ 2000RPM |
| IL4 Cylinder Turbo Petrol 2.5 Litre (2488cc) DOHC VVT EFI IC Claimed 170Kw @ 5000RPM Claimed 420Nm @ 2000RPM |
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| Weight | |
| Kerb weight FROM 1639Kg Towing capacity up to 1700Kg |
FROM 1511 Kg Towing capacity up to 1800kg |
| Fuel capacity & consumption | |
| Up to 60 litres IL4 Diesel 5.7 litres per 100km (Auto) F4 Petrol 7.3 litres per 100km (Auto) F6 Petrol 9.9 litres per 100km (Auto) |
Up to 58 litres IL4 2.0 Petrol 6.9 Lts per 100km AVG IL4 2.5 Petrol 7.5 Lts per 100km AVG IL4 2.2 Diesel 6 Lts per 100km AVG IL4 2.5 Turbo Petrol 8.2 Lts per 100km AVG |
| Other specifications | |
| CVT Auto Overall height/width 1675/1840 Overall length/wheelbase 4820/2745 NCAP safety rating 5/5 |
6 speed auto or manual Overall height/width 1675/1840 Overall length/wheelbase 4550/2700 4WD system: FWD or On demand AWD ANCAP Safety: 5/5 |
| Capability | |
| Angle of: (degrees) Approach xx Departure xx Breakover xx Min ground clearance xxx mm Water Fording depth xxxmm Max 4WD system: AWD |
Angle of: (degrees) Approach xx Departure xx Breakover xx Ground clearance (unloaded) xxxmm Water Fording depth xxmm Max |
| Performance | |
| IL4 Turbo Petrol 0-100kph 7.7 seconds | |
| Pricing | |
| 2019 $37,440 – 50,440 AUD 2016 $35,990 – 48,490 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! |
2018 $28,750 – 55,490 AUD 2014 $28,990 – 52,490 AUD 2013 $28,990 – 45,490 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! |