CX-50 vs. Outback: Why the Mazda CX-50 Wins

November 6th, 2024 by

2025 Mazda CX-50 vs. Subaru Outback Comparison

Discover why the 2025 Mazda CX-50 outshines the Subaru Outback with superior technology, performance, off-road capabilities, and reliability.

Mazda CX-50 vs. Subaru Outback: Why the Mazda CX-50 Is the Better Choice for 2025

The crossover SUV market is competitive, with the Mazda CX-50 and the Subaru Outback frequently appearing as top contenders. These two vehicles are known for their rugged design, off-road capabilities, and advanced technology. However, if you’re in the market for a vehicle that offers a perfect blend of performance, luxury, and reliability, the 2025 Mazda CX-50 clearly stands out.

 

At Hello Mazda San Diego, part of the Hello Auto Group, the 2025 Mazda CX-50 is ready to impress drivers looking for a vehicle that performs well and delivers a superior driving experience. In this blog, we’ll comprehensively compare the Mazda CX-50 vs. Subaru Outback, with a clear bias toward the CX-50, highlighting its technology, performance, off-road capabilities, and overall reliability.

 

CX-50 vs. Outback: Design and Style

The Mazda CX-50 is designed with a sleek, athletic look that reflects Mazda’s signature “Kodo” design philosophy. This philosophy focuses on creating vehicles that evoke a sense of motion, even when standing still. The CX-50 stands out with its bold, angular front grille, sculpted body lines, and sharp LED headlights, giving it a more upscale, modern appearance than the Subaru Outback’s more rugged and practical design.

 

Mazda CX-50 Design Highlights:

 

  • Sleek, modern design with a premium feel
  • Bold front grille and sharp LED lighting for a standout appearance
  • Refined interior with premium materials, including available leather-trimmed seats and wood accents

 

In contrast, while the Subaru Outback has a more utilitarian look that appeals to adventure enthusiasts, its boxy shape and less refined materials make it feel less premium compared to the CX-50. If style and sophistication are important to you, the CX-50 delivers a superior experience.

 

CX-50 Technology vs. Outback Technology

When comparing the CX-50 technology to the Outback, Mazda once again comes out ahead with its focus on high-end, user-friendly features. The 2025 CX-50 is equipped with Mazda’s latest infotainment system, which includes a large, high-resolution 12.3-inch touchscreen, seamless smartphone integration, and a premium sound system option from Bose.

CX-50 Technology Highlights:

 

 

While the Subaru Outback also offers solid tech features, including an 11.6-inch touchscreen and standard smartphone integration, the system is often considered less intuitive and slower to respond than Mazda’s. Mazda’s commitment to creating a connected, driver-focused experience gives the CX-50 a significant edge in technology.

 

 

CX-50 Performance vs. Outback Performance

Performance is another area where the Mazda CX-50 shines brighter than the Subaru Outback. Mazda is known for its sporty driving dynamics, and the CX-50 performance does not disappoint. Powered by either a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine or a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, the 2025 CX-50 offers impressive acceleration, smooth handling, and precise steering.

 

CX-50 Engine and Performance Highlights:

 

  • 5-liter turbocharged engine producing up to 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque
  • Skyactiv-G technology for enhanced fuel efficiency and performance
  • Available i-Activ AWD system that intelligently distributes power for optimal traction
  • G-Vectoring Control Plus for superior cornering and stability

 

The Subaru Outback, while reliable, doesn’t offer the same level of sporty performance. Its 2.4-liter turbocharged engine produces 260 horsepower, but the Outback lacks the precision and responsive handling that Mazda is famous for. If you’re looking for an SUV that is as fun to drive on city streets as it is on highways and backroads, the CX-50 is the better choice.

 

2025 CX-50 Hybrid: A More Eco-Friendly Option

For 2025, Mazda is expanding its lineup with the introduction of the 2025 CX-50 hybrid. This new hybrid powertrain will provide eco-conscious drivers with improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions without sacrificing performance. Mazda’s hybrid technology is designed to seamlessly integrate electric power with its internal combustion engine, offering both power and efficiency when you need it most.

 

CX-50 Hybrid Highlights:

 

  • Improved fuel efficiency over traditional gas engines
  • Seamless integration of electric and gas power for optimal performance
  • Reduced emissions, making it a more eco-friendly choice

 

While the Subaru Outback offers a rugged option for adventurers, a hybrid version is not yet available, putting Mazda ahead of the game when it comes to greener driving solutions. For those looking to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing capability, the CX-50 hybrid is an ideal choice.

 

Off-Road Capabilities: CX-50 vs. Outback

Both the Mazda CX-50 and Subaru Outback are built with off-road enthusiasts in mind, but the CX-50 off-road capabilities are more refined, offering a more versatile and enjoyable off-road experience. The CX-50 comes with Mazda’s i-Activ AWD system, which not only improves traction on rough terrain but also ensures stability and control during off-road excursions.

 

CX-50 Off-Road Features:

 

  • Off-road driving mode for better handling on rugged terrains
  • All-wheel drive with torque vectoring for improved grip in difficult conditions
  • Higher ground clearance and improved suspension system for a smoother ride

 

While the Subaru Outback is known for its ruggedness and does offer all-wheel drive as standard, its off-road capabilities feel less refined compared to the precision and control offered by the CX-50. The 2025 CX-50 offers a smoother and more enjoyable experience, whether you’re traversing gravel roads or exploring remote trails.

 

Mazda CX-50 Reliability vs. Subaru Outback Reliability

Mazda has built a reputation for creating vehicles that are not only fun to drive but also highly reliable. Mazda reliability is a major selling point for the brand, with vehicles consistently ranking highly in customer satisfaction and dependability surveys. The CX-50 benefits from Mazda’s meticulous engineering, providing drivers with confidence that their vehicle will last for many years with minimal issues.

 

Subaru also has a strong reputation for reliability, but Mazda’s long history of producing durable, well-built vehicles gives it a slight edge. Additionally, Mazda’s attention to detail and commitment to quality ensure that the CX-50 maintains its value over time, making it a smarter investment for long-term ownership.

 

Why Choose the Mazda CX-50 from Hello Mazda San Diego?

If you’re in the market for a new SUV, the 2025 Mazda CX-50 offers superior style, performance, technology, and off-road capabilities compared to the Subaru Outback. The CX-50 is designed to meet the needs of modern drivers, offering both sporty driving dynamics and the versatility needed for adventure.

 

At Hello Mazda San Diego, part of the Hello Auto Group, you can explore the CX-50 2025 updates firsthand and take advantage of competitive pricing and excellent customer service. Whether you’re interested in the CX-50 hybrid for its eco-friendly features or the standard model for its sporty performance, Hello Mazda San Diego has the inventory and expertise to help you find the perfect vehicle for your lifestyle.

 

Instagram

YouTube

Facebook

LinkedIn

More from Hello Mazda of San Diego

  • Power and Precision: Mazda CX-90 Review

    Mazda CX-90 Performance Features Overview The Mazda CX-90 offers exceptional performance with powerful engine options, AWD, towing capacity, and advanced safety features.   Mazda CX-90 Performance: Unveiling Its Capabilities   The Mazda CX-90 stands as a flagship SUV in Mazda’s lineup, blending elegance, power, and innovative engineering. From impressive engine options to its advanced adaptive…

  • Wildfire Recovery Drop-off

    In the wake of the devastating Los Angeles fires, Hello Auto Group has stepped up to support those affected by the tragedy. Recognizing the immense challenges faced by families who have lost their homes and belongings, Hello Auto Group is partnering with Baby2Baby, an organization dedicated to providing necessities to impoverished children. Through this collaboration,…

  • Why the Mazda CX-90 Stands Out

    Luxury and Performance: Mazda CX-90 Overview Experience the Mazda CX-90 at Hello Mazda San Diego. Luxury meets performance with powerful engines, advanced technology, and premium design.   Mazda CX-90: Where Luxury Meets Performance   The Mazda CX-90 has redefined the SUV segment with its combination of premium luxury, cutting-edge technology, and high-performance engineering. Designed with…