2024 Mazda CX-50 vs Subaru Outback

On the surface, the mid-size crossover SUV is a family car. However, as the market for the mid-size class of vehicle has grown, so have the niche models within it. Two very popular mid-size crossovers, the Mazda CX-50 and the Subaru Outback, seek to position themselves as the most rugged, sporty options for drivers, but how do these two popular SUVs actually compare? Let’s take a deeper look into the design, styling, performance, and value of the Mazda CX-50 versus the Subaru Outback.

Comparing the Exterior Design and Styling

Upon first evaluating the Mazda CX-50 and the Subaru Outback, the differences between the styling on both of these crossovers is immediately obvious. While the Subaru maintains a classic, station wagon-like look characterized by its lower stature and longer back hatch, the Mazda CX-50 has a look that is more in line with the typical modern crossover SUV.

In addition, the CX-50 really emphasizes the smooth look and play of light and shadow developed as part of Mazda’s KODO design theory. As a result, the Subaru presents a boxier look that is potentially more rugged, but it contrasts deeply with the smoother, sportier tone of the Mazda.

Taking a Closer Look at Interior Comfort and Space

Once you open the door and step inside, the clear differences between the Mazda CX-50 and the Subaru Outback continue to be apparent. In the cabin, Mazda’s incredible attention to detail in design continues as it integrates sporty styling with the brand’s signature upgraded, luxury interiors.

Specifically, the CX-50 offers a durable looking interior with seats that are styled for comfort on long adventures, alongside elevated luxury elements, such as raised “X” stitching along the leather interior accents. Mazda also takes the business of driving seriously, designing a practical interior with buttons and controls that are easy to reach and technology elements and displays that encourage the driver to keep their attention where it matters most — on the road ahead.

The Subaru’s interior, while offering more cargo room thanks to that elongated back, does not contain a similar element of luxury. Instead, the Outback is practical, with a large, vertical touchscreen in the center console and a functional interior design that is adequate for average drivers’ needs.

Performance and Engine Options

Both the Mazda CX-50 and the Subaru Outback offer several trim levels, including two distinct engine options. For the 2025 Subaru Outback, lower trims come equipped with a 2.5-liter Subaru Boxer four-cylinder engine that is capable of 182 horsepower (hp) at 5,800 rotations per minute (rpm) and 176 pound-feet (lb-ft) of torque. The turbocharged upgrade delivers a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that brings the power up to 260 hp at 5,600 rpm and 277 lb-ft of torque.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50’s two engine options include a 2.5-liter DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder SKYACTIV®-G engine with 187 hp at 6,000 rpm and 185 lb-ft of torque. The Mazda kicks up the power with its turbo option, specifically outfitting its highest trims with a 2.5-liter twin-scroll turbo engine with i-Stop technology. The turbo offers drivers a maximum of 256 hp at 5,000 rpm and 320 lb-ft of torque. Regardless of trim, both models come equipped with standard all-wheel drive (AWD).

Safety Features and Ratings

The reputation of both Mazda and Subaru as reliable and safe vehicle choices applies to the CX-50 and the Outback. In the case of Mazda, however, the CX-50 t officially comes out on top. The 2024 CX-50 earned the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) top marks as a Top Safety Pick+4. The 2024 Subaru Outback was not far behind, however, earning the ranking a notch below as a secondary IIHS Top Safety Pick.5

Many stand-out features earned the Mazda its top ranking, including safety technologies provided by the i-ACTIVSENSE® suite. This includes an adaptive front lighting system, blind spot monitoring, parking sensors, an available 360-degree view monitor, lane departure warning system, rear cross-traffic alert, and more.

Technology and Infotainment

Both the Subaru Outback and the Mazda CX-50 make sure that they keep the technological needs of their drivers and passengers in mind, although each model takes a different approach to implementing that technology. For example, the Subaru Outback makes a bold statement with its large vertical touchscreen center display that offers drivers full access to smartphones and associated entertainment as a result. The Outback is fully compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and includes features such as USB-C charging ports available for both front and rear passengers.

The Mazda CX-50 takes a different approach to technology, opting for a smaller, 10.25-inch horizontal mounted display. Drivers can operate the display using either the control knob on the center console or by connecting their smartphones using Android Auto or Apple CarPlay to access the touchscreen. In addition, Mazda offers a heads-up driver display to help keep the driver’s focus on the road. Additional technology features for the CX-50 include a bespoke Bose® 12-speaker surround sound system and built-in Alexa, alongside the same front and rear USB-C ports that are standard features in the Subaru.

Driving Experience and Handling

As agile, sport-oriented vehicles, both the Mazda CX-50 and the Subaru Outback offer drivers dynamic and functional driving experiences. These two vehicles are designed for both work and play, and they both have the ability to perform well on the smooth roads of the city as well as in off-road conditions.

Handling

When it comes to handling, the sporty feel of the Mazda CX-50 offers drivers a smooth and responsive experience. Steering the CX-50 is quick and flat, especially around curves. The Subaru also offers drivers a strong handling experience, but its taller suspension can lead it to roll around a bit. The Outback is fully capable as long as the driver learns to trust that capability.

Off-Road Capability

Both the Subaru Outback and Mazda CX-50 are marketed as off-road capable crossovers and viewed as sporty, capable options for drivers who want to deviate from the smooth roads of civilization. To that end, both offer adequate ground clearance of 8.7 inches and 8.6 inches, respectively, for the Subaru and Mazda. They are also capable of towing, with both models offering up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity.

Pricing for the Mazda CX-50 vs. Subaru Outback

For many drivers, the features of the Mazda CX-50 and the Subaru Outback are only part of the story. In most cases, price and value also matter a great deal when it comes to making the best purchasing decision for your needs. Again, however, this is one space where the two vehicles are relatively evenly matched. The lowest trims on both the CX-50 and the Outback start at around $30,000, while the highest trims for each start at around $43,000.

Test Drive the CX-50 Today

When it comes to choosing a family-friendly, reliable, and sporty mid-size crossover SUV, it shouldn’t be surprising that so many drivers turn to the Mazda CX-50 and the Subaru Outback. However, when it comes down to it, the value of the Mazda, with its extra power, added luxury, and focus on safety, seems to come out on top for many drivers.

Are you ready to experience the power, style, and value of the Mazda CX-50? Stop by DePaula Mazda in Albany, NY, to see the appeal of the CX-50 for yourself. Call our team at DePaula Mazda to take a test drive today to experience the capabilities of this incredible, sporty Mazda model on the open road.