Mazda CX-5 vs Subaru Crosstrek
What's the difference?

Mazda CX-5

$37,240 - $56,150

2026 price

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Subaru Crosstrek

$36,490 - $47,590

2026 price

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Chery Tiggo 8 PRO MAX

Land Rover Discovery Sport

Mercedes-Benz EQ-Class

Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Mercedes-Benz G63

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

Mini Countryman

Mitsubishi ASX

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Mitsubishi Outlander

Mitsubishi Pajero

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

Summary

2026 Mazda CX-5

2026 Subaru Crosstrek

By Emily Agar

By Laura Berry

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Inline 4, 2.5L

Flat 4, 2.0L

Fuel Type

Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

7.4L/100km (combined)

7.2L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Comfortable, dynamic drive
Practical family interior
Strong safety package

Great to drive
Comfortable cabin
Upgraded safety

Dislikes

No hybrid option
Engine can feel sluggish
No rear charging ports

Small boot
Pricey servicing
Not particularly fuel efficient

2026 Mazda CX-5 Summary

The new-generation Mazda CX-5 is here, promising to be bigger, better and bolder, with fresh styling, sharper handling and more technology. But in a market where hybrid power is becoming increasingly hard to ignore, has Mazda left the CX-5 at a disadvantage? I’ve spent a week with the Evolve grade to find out for you.

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Interested in a Mazda CX-5?

2026 Subaru Crosstrek Summary

Among the many strange new car brands and names we're increasingly confronted with Subaru is an established and trusted beacon along with Honda, Hyundai, Mazda and Toyota. And Subaru’s Crosstrek SUV competes against rivals such as the Honda HR-V, Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-30 and Toyota Corolla Cross.

So, what does the Crosstrek give you for your money and what’s different or better about the Crosstrek compared to those rivals?

We tested the mid-grade Crosstrek 2.0S and rediscovered what this small SUV does so well and what could probably be improved.

@carsguide.com.au Three things the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek can do better than its rivals. #subaru #crosstrek #SUV #car #carsguide ♬ original sound - CarsGuide.com.au

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Deep dive comparison

2026 Mazda CX-5 2026 Subaru Crosstrek

Verdict

The Mazda CX-5 Evolve kicks some goals and with its comfortable on-road handling, robust safety equipment and practical interior, it’s still a solid choice for families looking for a mid-sized SUV. The only thing it’s missing is a hybrid powertrain, which would make this already well-rounded package even more compelling.

Verdict

The Crosstrek is good to drive with great ground clearance and an excellent all-wheel drive system for light off-road adventures. I’m also a fan of the styling and features for the money. But The letdowns comes in the form of limited boot space and cabin storage, a short warranty and pricey servicing. Still, it’s great to see Subaru has updated the car's safety systems, the most important part of any car.

Mazda CX-5 vs Subaru Crosstrek What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Mazda CX-5 vs Subaru Crosstrek
What's the difference?