2021 Mazda CX-5 vs 2020 Subaru Outback

The 2020 Subaru Outback maintained its winning formula by focusing on incremental improvements, particularly in utility, safety, and performance. It was built on Subaru’s Global Platform, which increased structural rigidity by 70%. The base 2.5-litre engine was updated with 90% new parts, while higher trims featured a 2.4-litre turbocharged engine. Externally, changes were subtle, with noticeable updates to the head- and taillights. Inside, the Outback introduced an 11.6-inch touchscreen for most trims and innovative tech like DriverFocus, which used facial recognition to enhance driver safety. The Outback was available in seven trims, starting at an MSRP of $30,695, with features like heated seats, keyless entry, and a suite of safety features.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 took a different design approach, opting for a sleek and smooth exterior. The base GX trim included features like LED headlights and 17-inch wheels, while the GS added leatherette seats and a power liftgate. The Kuro Edition offered unique styling with red leather seats and black accents. The GT trim added leather upholstery and a Bose audio system, while the Signature trim, which was tested, featured premium materials like Nappa leather and wood trim. The CX-5 was praised for its fit and finish, offering a premium feel that rivaled luxury brands.

The 2020 Subaru Outback offered two engine options: a 2.5-litre engine with 182 horsepower and a 2.4-litre turbocharged engine with 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a CVT, which was tuned to mimic a traditional automatic transmission. The Outback's symmetrical AWD system provided consistent power delivery and improved handling, with 22.1 cm of ground clearance for off-road capability. Fuel consumption ratings were 9.0 L/100 km in the city, 7.1 on the highway, and 8.2 combined for the base engine.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 also offered two engine choices: a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre engine with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 2.5-litre engine with 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. The turbo engine was standard on the Signature trim and optional on the GT. The CX-5's AWD system provided a sporty driving experience, though the suspension was noted to be stiff. Fuel efficiency for the non-turbo engine with FWD was 9.7 L/100 km in the city, 7.8 on the highway, and 8.8 combined, while the turbo engine with AWD used 10.8 L/100 km in the city, 8.7 on the highway, and 9.8 combined.

The 2020 Subaru Outback excelled in functionality, offering 920 litres of cargo space, expandable to 2,144 litres with the rear seats folded. The interior was spacious, with ample headroom and legroom, even for taller passengers. Visibility was a strong point, though the rear quarters had a notable blind spot. The Outback's design prioritized practicality, with a low load height and a lower centre of gravity for improved handling.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 provided a comfortable and stylish interior, though rear legroom was limited for taller passengers. The CX-5 featured two full LATCH connections for child seats and straightforward climate controls. However, the larger shifter and infotainment controls were not ideally positioned for shorter drivers. Cargo space was 875 litres behind the second row, expanding to 1,687 litres with the seats folded, which was below average for the segment.

The 2020 Subaru Outback featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen, which was visually appealing but suffered from lag and buried climate-control functions. The system's camera resolution was also lacking, detracting from the overall experience. Despite these issues, the potential for improvement was evident.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 came with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, which was large but had an outdated operating system. The lack of tuning knobs and the positioning of the controls made it less user-friendly. However, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided a workaround for entertainment needs.

The 2020 Subaru Outback included a comprehensive safety suite with features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. However, the DriverFocus system was criticized for being overly sensitive and distracting. Subaru's EyeSight system, while standard, could be obstructed by environmental factors.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 boasted a long list of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features like a head-up display and surround-view camera system enhanced safety. The CX-5 earned high safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.