DecodedCarsMazda CX-5 vs Subaru Forester
2026 Mazda CX-5 vs 2026 Subaru Forester — two small SUVs compared on efficiency, size, safety and reliability.
The short version
The Subaru Forester is more fuel-efficient: 35 vs 26 MPG combined in its best version.
That works out to about $700 a year less in fuel for the Subaru Forester (EPA estimate, 15,000 miles).
Across all model years since 2005, the Mazda CX-5 has had fewer recall campaigns (8 vs 39).
The two cars
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is a small SUV offered with a 2.5L 4-cyl engine and 4-wheel drive. It measures about 185 inches long and 74 inches wide on a 111-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 3,852 lb.
The 2026 Subaru Forester is a small SUV offered with a 2.5L 4-cyl engine, including a hybrid version and all-wheel drive. It measures about 184 inches long and 72 inches wide on a 105-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 3,580 lb.
Buying used? The 2024 CX-5 and the 2024 Forester have the fewest problems in our data; avoid the 2016 CX-5 and the 2019 Forester.
Basics
Efficiency
Performance & space
Safety & reliability
Interest
Green = clearly better. Prices are not included. How we calculate this →
Which one should you choose?
Choose the Mazda CX-5 if…
- You put reliability history first (8 vs 39 recalls since 2005)
Choose the Subaru Forester if…
- You want lower fuel bills (35 vs 26 MPG)
- You want a hybrid or electric option
Pros & cons of each
2026 Mazda CX-5
- Lots of standard safety tech5 of 5 key driver aids standard on the versions we checked.
2026 Subaru Forester
- Excellent fuel economyUp to 35 MPG combined — 35% better than the average 2026 small SUV (25.9 MPG).
- Hybrid version availableOffered as a hybrid as well as gas.
- Lots of standard safety tech5 of 5 key driver aids standard on the versions we checked.
- "Do not drive" recallCheck that the recall repair was done before buying or driving.
Full 2026 Mazda CX-5 specs →Full 2026 Subaru Forester specs →Compare fuel costs for your driving →Compare size & garage fit →