2026 MAZDA CX-50 vs Subaru Forester
2026 Mazda CX-50 vs Subaru Forester
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 is an icon of the compact crossover class. Its performance, infotainment, and comfort are just three reasons this SUV has an edge over competitors like the Subaru Forester. The team at Bakersfield Mazda compares these models side by side so you can see the difference.
Powertrain Options
The Mazda CX-50 2.5 S starts at 187 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque with i-Activ AWD® and Mi-Drive™ Sport and Off-Road modes to adjust how the vehicle responds. The Mazda CX-50 2.5 Turbo adds 256 horsepower, 320 lb-ft of torque, and towing up to 3,500 lb on premium fuel for when you need more. The Subaru Forester uses a single 180-horsepower engine across all trims, and doesn’t offer any upgraded engine to match the turbocharged option in the new Mazda model.
Wireless Connectivity from the Start
The Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select starts off with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ standard on a 10.25-inch display with Mazda Connect™ and Alexa Built-in. Move up in the lineup and a Bose® 12-speaker audio system with Centerpoint® and AudioPilot® changes how the cabin sounds on a long drive, while a full-color Active Driving Display® puts navigation and speed on the windshield. The Subaru Forester opens with wired connections on dual 7.0-inch screens; wireless connectivity and a larger display require an upgrade.
Comfort That Arrives Earlier in the Lineup
The Mazda CX-50 Preferred reaches comfort features most competitors hold back until near the top of the lineup, including heated front seats, a panoramic moonroof, an 8-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support, and a power rear liftgate all land mid-range. That means a well-appointed daily driver without a flagship price. Leather seating, ventilated front seats, and driver memory follow at the Premium trim and above. The Subaru Forester is practical and well-equipped, but those same comfort features sit higher in its trim structure.
Find Your 2026 MAZDA CX-50 at Bakersfield MAZDA
Bakersfield Mazda carries the full Mazda CX-50 lineup, and our Mazda dealership in Bakersfield, CA, is set up to walk you through every powertrain and trim in person. Visit us to take a test drive and speak with our team about Mazda financing and leasing options to bring home your next SUV.