2025 Subaru Outback vs 2025 Mazda CX-90

The 2025 Subaru Outback was a testament to the enduring appeal of wagons, especially in Canada where such vehicles were more appreciated than in the U.S. Its design incorporated all the essential crossover elements, including robust wheel-arch flares and skid plate-like fascias, which conveyed its off-road capabilities. The Outback's rugged exterior was complemented by a well-thought-out interior, featuring minimal use of chrome and glossy black plastic. The dashboard was practical, with easy-to-read gauges and a small digital display providing essential information. Subaru's focus on off-road enthusiasts paid off, as the Outback, along with the Crosstrek and Forester, became one of the brand's best-selling models.

In contrast, the 2025 Mazda CX-90 exuded a luxury SUV vibe with its lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels. Its sculptural sheet metal and athletic stance gave it a premium appearance. Inside, the CX-90 continued this upscale theme with polished metallic trim, Nappa leather, and clearly marked switchgear. However, the design was not without its flaws, as the ergonomics left something to be desired. The electronic shifter was confusing, and the climate panel's controls were counterintuitive. Despite these issues, the CX-90's sophisticated look and feel set it apart from other midsize three-row SUVs.

The 2025 Subaru Outback featured Subaru's signature horizontally opposed "Boxer" engine, available in two variants. The standard 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine produced 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, while the turbocharged 2.4-litre engine in the Wilderness and XT trims delivered 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. Both engines ran on regular unleaded gas and were paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive. The Outback's ground clearance of 22 centimetres, increased to 24.1 centimetres in the Wilderness model, and Subaru's X-Mode enhanced its off-road capabilities. The Outback offered a smooth and comfortable ride, with light steering, smooth throttle, and powerful brakes. However, the stop/start technology and CVT's response time were noted as areas for improvement.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 offered three powertrain options: the standard-output 3.3 Turbo, the high-output 3.3 Turbo, and a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). The standard-output engine produced 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, while the high-output version delivered 319 hp and 369 lb-ft (340 hp with premium gas). The power was transmitted through an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard all-wheel-drive system. The CX-90's towing capacity was 2,268 kilograms, and it offered various driving modes, including Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing. Despite its impressive ride and handling, the CX-90's drivetrain refinement was lacking, with unpredictable power delivery and transmission behaviour. The vehicle also suffered from noise and impact harshness, detracting from its upscale impression.

The 2025 Subaru Outback's wagon shape provided practicality with easy entry and exit, a lower roof height for loading, and a low centre of gravity for quick direction changes. It offered 923 litres of cargo space with the rear seat up and 2,141 litres with the bench folded. The total passenger volume of 3,044 litres was larger than its crossover competitors, providing more front headroom and legroom. The Outback's towing capacity ranged from 1,225 kilograms to 1,588 kilograms with the turbocharged engine. Buyers were advised to test drive different trims to find the best fit for their needs.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's interior featured Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel in the Signature trim. However, the three-zone climate control system was slow to cool the cabin. The panoramic sunroof provided natural light, and second-row passengers enjoyed comfortable seating, though seat-track travel was limited. The third row was best suited for children, and the CX-90's cargo space was practical but smaller than some rivals. The hands-free power liftgate revealed 451 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,155 litres with the third row folded and 2,129 litres with the second row flattened.

The 2025 Subaru Outback's technology package included an 11.6-inch touchscreen with large icons, though the Starlink infotainment system was slow to respond. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, with wireless functionality on most trims. The Harman Kardon audio system provided good sound quality, but Starlink disturbances limited audio to the rear speakers. The dashboard featured a mix of physical controls and touchscreen functions, and the Premier XT trim included a CD player and USB ports for older devices.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's dashboard featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The infotainment screen was touch-sensitive only when using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, with the native Mazda Connect platform requiring the use of a knob and buttons. The voice recognition system was not up to modern standards, but a new Google built-in infotainment system was expected in future models. The CX-90's 12-speaker Bose audio system provided a rewarding listening experience, and the Active Driving Display offered helpful data.

The 2025 Subaru Outback came equipped with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology, which included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency steering. The system kept the Outback in its lane but with more side-to-side movement than desired. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, lane-change assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Outback earned a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 was one of the few midsize SUVs to receive a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings in NHTSA crash tests. It came with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. Higher trims added advanced features like steering assist, emergency lane-keeping assist, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-90's driver aids generally met expectations, though the speed reduction feature was irritating, and the audible warning systems were excessive.