2021 Subaru Outback vs 2021 Mazda CX-5

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 was a departure from the sharply creased designs of many automakers, opting instead for a sleek and smooth aesthetic that appeared aerodynamic even at a standstill. While it didn't boast a flashy design, it took Mazda's familiar style in a more refined direction. The exterior differences among the CX-5's trim levels were subtle, with the base model featuring LED headlights, 17-inch wheels, and a rear roof spoiler. Higher trims like the GS and GT added features such as leatherette seats, a power liftgate, and larger wheels, culminating in the Signature model, which offered premium touches like Nappa leather and genuine wood trim.

In contrast, the 2021 Subaru Outback maintained a familiar and comfortable design, reminiscent of its predecessors. While the base trim had a less appealing dual-screen setup, higher trims featured an 11.6-inch portrait display that was both bright and sharp. The interior quality was a significant improvement over older models, with substantial materials and comfortable seating. The Outback's exterior was characterized by its high gray cladding and smooth, plain styling, with adaptive LED headlights becoming standard in 2021. Despite its understated appearance, the Outback's design was practical, offering a lifted wagon alternative to typical crossovers.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options, both paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The base 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine produced 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, available in both FWD and AWD configurations. The turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, available on higher trims, delivered 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, providing a more spirited driving experience. The CX-5's fuel efficiency varied, with the FWD non-turbo model achieving 9.7 L/100 km in the city and 7.8 on the highway, while the turbocharged AWD version used 10.8 L/100 km in the city and 8.7 on the highway. The CX-5 was known for its engaging driving style, though its stiff suspension could be a drawback for some.

The 2021 Subaru Outback's base engine was a 2.5-litre flat-four producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT. This powertrain struggled with the Outback's weight, resulting in sluggish performance. The turbocharged 2.4-litre engine, available on higher trims, offered a significant improvement with 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, providing better acceleration and refinement. The turbo XT's fuel efficiency was slightly lower than the base engine, with estimates of 10.1 L/100 km in the city and 7.9 on the highway. The Outback excelled in ride comfort and off-road capability, thanks to its high ground clearance and advanced AWD system.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5's interior was designed for comfort and style, with good headroom but limited legroom for rear passengers. The SUV featured two full LATCH connections in the rear, though they were not the easiest to use. The CX-5's climate controls were straightforward, but the larger shifter and infotainment controls took up valuable space. Cargo capacity was below average for the segment, with 875 litres behind the second row and 1,687 litres with the seats folded.

The 2021 Subaru Outback offered impressive interior space, with 2,144 litres of cargo capacity with the rear seats folded and 920 litres with them raised. The cargo area was wide and flat, free of intrusive elements. The Outback provided ample headroom and legroom, with excellent outward visibility. Storage options were plentiful, though some features like push-button start and rear climate vents were not standard on lower trims. The Outback's standout feature was its integrated roof rails and crossbars, offering convenience and cost savings.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 came standard with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, though its operating system was not as modern as its competitors. The lack of tuning knobs and the screen's positioning made it less user-friendly. However, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, allowing for easier smartphone integration.

The 2021 Subaru Outback's infotainment system appeared dated, with graphics reminiscent of older gaming consoles. Despite this, it offered modern features like adaptive cruise control and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The single large screen was more cohesive than the base model's dual-screen setup. Subaru EyeSight, standard on all trims, provided advanced driver assistance features, though its reliance on cameras limited its functionality in certain conditions.

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

The 2021 Subaru Outback featured a stronger chassis and standard airbags, with additional safety features available on higher trims. It was a 2020 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it scored four stars in some individual tests.