When shopping for a rugged, adventure-ready SUV that combines practicality with outdoor capability, two vehicles consistently rise to the top of buyers’ lists: the 2025 Mazda CX-50 and the 2025 Subaru Outback. Both vehicles promise all-wheel-drive confidence, family-friendly versatility, and the ability to handle everything from daily commutes to weekend camping trips. But which one deserves a spot in your driveway?
After extensive testing and analysis, we’ve discovered that while both SUVs excel in their respective areas, they cater to distinctly different buyer priorities. The CX-50 emphasizes premium refinement and sporty dynamics, while the Outback focuses on maximum practicality and proven off-road heritage.
Performance and Powertrain: Power Meets Efficiency
Engine Options and Output
Under the Mazda CX-50 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus’s hood is a 2.5-liter turbo four that produces 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, which is very similar to Subaru’s 2.4-liter BOXER turbo four that makes 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. The main difference, however, is that the Mazda’s horsepower can be boosted by adding premium fuel. Instead of 227 ponies, the little Mazda now has 256 horsepower. This flexible fuel capability gives the CX-50 a unique advantage for drivers who want the option to unlock extra performance when needed.
The Subaru Outback’s naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine serves as the base option, delivering adequate power for most situations. However, the optional turbocharged 2.4-liter BOXER engine provides the performance most buyers will prefer, especially for highway merging and mountain driving.
Transmission Technology
Both cars had plenty of power, but the Mazda had a standard six-speed transmission as opposed to a CVT. I didn’t mind the Subaru’s CVT; it was smooth and moved power around where it needed to be without a hiccup. The transmission choice represents a fundamental philosophical difference between the brands. Mazda’s six-speed automatic prioritizes driving engagement and response, while Subaru’s CVT focuses on fuel efficiency and smooth power delivery.
Towing Capability
Both can tow about 3,500 lbs, making them equally capable for hauling boats, trailers, or camping gear. This puts both vehicles in excellent territory for weekend warriors who need genuine utility.
Design and Styling: Beauty vs Practicality
Exterior Design Philosophy
I thought the Mazda’s styling was much more appealing than the Outback’s from the outside. The black accenting, modern but tasteful wheel styling, open and black grille, and headlight design made it look a lot more al fresco than the Outback. The CX-50 embraces a more contemporary, urban-adventure aesthetic that appeals to buyers who want their SUV to make a visual statement.
The Subaru Outback, by contrast, maintains its familiar, proven design language that prioritizes function over flash. Its more conservative styling has proven appeal among buyers who value practicality and longevity over trendy design elements.
Dimensions and Space Efficiency
The Subaru is six inches longer, two inches wider, and three inches taller than the Mazda. Ironically enough, though, the Mazda has a longer wheelbase than the Subaru by two inches. These dimensional differences significantly impact both exterior presence and interior space utilization.
Interior Comfort and Practicality: Room to Breathe
Passenger Space and Comfort
I’m about 5’8″, and my head was centimeters away from touching the sunroof, even with the seat at the lowest height setting. My husband’s just over six feet tall, and for him, that was a dealbreaker. Neither of us liked the coffin-esque seating position, especially since the windows were fairly small and high up on the door. The CX-50’s sportier proportions come at the cost of headroom and overall spaciousness, particularly for taller passengers.
One of my favorite things about the Outback was how easy it was to see out of. My girls loved being in the backseat of the Subaru. They didn’t need the sunroof open to enjoy the world around them, and climbing in and out of it was simple and fun for them. The Outback’s more upright seating position and larger windows create a more airy, family-friendly environment.
Cargo Capacity
The Mazda CX‑50 offers up to 31.4 ft³ with all seats in place with a maximum of 56.3 ft³ with the second row of seats folded. On the other hand, the Subaru Outback has 32.6 ft³ with the seats in place, and a maximum of 56.3 ft³ with the second row of seats folded. While the maximum cargo capacity is identical, the Outback provides more day-to-day utility with its superior seats-up storage.
Technology and Safety: Modern Meets Proven
Safety Ratings and Features
The Mazda CX-50 has achieved the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s (IIHS) highest rating of “Top Safety Pick Plus” for the 2025 model year. This distinction is based on its exceptional performance in IIHS’ rigorous battery of safety tests. This recognition demonstrates Mazda’s commitment to advanced safety engineering.
Both vehicles come equipped with comprehensive suite of active safety features. The CX-50 features Mazda’s i-Activsense technology, while the Outback includes Subaru’s EyeSight system. Both systems provide comparable protection through features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The technology interfaces reflect each brand’s priorities. Mazda’s system emphasizes premium feel and intuitive operation, while Subaru focuses on straightforward functionality and ease of use. Both offer smartphone integration and modern connectivity features that satisfy most buyers’ needs.
All-Wheel Drive Systems: Proven vs Progressive
AWD Technology Comparison
Mazda CX‑50: Uses i-ACTIV AWD with Mazda’s Mi‑Drive system, which includes selectable drive modes such as Off-Road and Towing (on turbo models). Subaru Outback: Features Symmetrical AWD as standard on all trims, paired with X‑Mode for low-traction conditions.
Subaru’s AWD is a long-standing favorite for snow and trail conditions. Mazda’s system is newer but smarter — using predictive inputs like wheel slip, steering angle, and weather to adjust torque in real-time. This represents the classic battle between proven heritage and innovative technology.
Fuel Economy: Efficiency Considerations
The Subaru Outback gets 26 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. Comparatively, the Mazda CX‑50 gets 25 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. The differences are minimal, but the Outback’s slight advantage could add up for high-mileage drivers.
Pricing and Value: Investment Analysis
Starting with price, the Mazda CX‑50 is more expensive with a starting MSRP of $31,720 and the similarly equipped Subaru Outback starts at $31,415. The pricing remains competitive between both vehicles, with trim-level equipment and options determining the final cost difference.
Real-World Family Experience
Family-Friendly Verdict
Installing my children’s car seats was easy in both cars, but my girls were noticeably cramped in the CX-50, and getting them in and out of it wasn’t as easy as I thought it would be. For families with children, the space and accessibility advantages of the Outback become particularly important.
Now, if you were a single person or someone with a dog, the Mazda would be just fine. The Outback, however, has room for everyone you’re hauling, without feeling like a large SUV.
Which SUV Wins?
The choice between the 2025 Mazda CX-50 and 2025 Subaru Outback ultimately depends on your priorities and lifestyle needs.
Choose the Mazda CX-50 if you prioritize:
- Sporty, refined driving dynamics
- Premium interior materials and design
- Modern, head-turning exterior styling
- Flexible fuel performance options
- Traditional automatic transmission feel
Choose the Subaru Outback if you prioritize:
- Maximum interior and cargo space
- Proven all-wheel-drive heritage
- Superior visibility and family comfort
- Slightly better fuel economy
- Time-tested reliability reputation
Both vehicles represent excellent choices in the adventure SUV segment, but they serve different buyer personas. The CX-50 appeals to buyers who want their practical SUV to feel special and engaging, while the Outback satisfies those who prioritize maximum utility and proven capability above all else.