Key takeaways
When the price tags are almost identical, the real question is what you actually get for your money. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 and 2026 Subaru Forester compete in the same corner of the compact SUV market, and at a glance you might assume they're equally matched. Look closer at the specs, and the CX-5 has more power, more torque, and a sharper driving character for essentially the same entry price.
Head-to-head: CX-5 vs. Forester
CX-5 advantage: more horsepower, more torque, and a more refined driving feel — at a lower entry price.
Why the CX-5 makes sense for Northwest Indiana roads
Whether you're navigating wet on-ramps along US-30, dealing with the first heavy snowfall of a Lake County winter, or just want a more engaging drive between Merrillville and Crown Point, the CX-5's standard AWD and sport-tuned chassis give you a confident, connected feel. The Forester is capable, but the CX-5 is for drivers who want more from every mile.
Performance and handling
2026 Mazda CX-5: With 187 HP and 186 lb-ft of torque from its SKYACTIV-G engine, the CX-5 pulls away from traffic with authority. G-Vectoring Control Plus subtly shifts engine torque during cornering so the chassis stays composed through turns, cutting down on the small steering corrections most drivers make without thinking about it.
2026 Subaru Forester: The Forester's 2.5L engine delivers a capable 180 HP and 178 lb-ft of torque. The ride is comfortable and the elevated ride height gives you good visibility. It's built for practicality over engagement.
Mazda edge: The CX-5's chassis responds to the driver, not just the road. That difference shows up on a regular commute, not just on a mountain pass.
Interior quality and seating
2026 Mazda CX-5: The cabin is built around the driver. Seats offer firm thigh and lumbar support that holds up on longer stretches down I-65 or US-41. Materials throughout feel above the segment average, and the layout keeps controls where your hands expect them.
2026 Subaru Forester: The Forester's cabin prioritizes headroom, visibility, and durability. Seats are upright and practical. It's a solid interior, built to handle years of family use.
Mazda edge: If the drive itself matters to you, the CX-5's interior reinforces that every time you sit down. Nothing feels like an afterthought.
2026 Mazda CX-5
2026 Subaru Forester
Engine specs, compared
CX-5: The SKYACTIV-G 2.5L four-cylinder produces 187 HP and 186 lb-ft of torque. Mazda engineers prioritized high-revving efficiency and linear power delivery, so the engine feels strong at everyday speeds — not just at wide-open throttle.
Forester: Subaru's 2.5L DOHC produces 180 HP and 178 lb-ft of torque. It's a reliable, well-proven engine with a good durability record. The power curve is smooth, though it comes up short on both peak figures.
Where does your $30K go?
At essentially the same base price, the CX-5 and Forester make different trade-offs. Subaru puts money into interior volume and ground clearance. Mazda puts it into powertrain refinement, chassis tuning, and interior materials.
If you want maximum cargo room and extra ground clearance for light off-road use, the Forester earns it. If you want better performance and a more driver-focused cabin for the same money, the CX-5 has the edge for most buyers.
See the 2026 CX-5 in Merrillville
The best comparison happens behind the wheel. Art Hill Mazda is at 957 W Lincoln Hwy, Merrillville, IN 46410, serving drivers from Lafayette, Crown Point, Rensselaer, Kokomo, and throughout Northwest Indiana. Browse current CX-5 inventory online or stop in to schedule a test drive.
More CX-5 comparisons
Frequently asked questions
Yes. The 2026 Mazda CX-5 produces 187 HP compared to the Subaru Forester's 180 HP, giving it a clear edge in everyday acceleration and highway merging.
The CX-5 produces 186 lb-ft of torque versus the Forester's 178 lb-ft — a difference you'll feel when accelerating from a stop or merging onto I-65 from US-30.
The 2026 Mazda CX-5 starts at $29,990* MSRP. The 2026 Subaru Forester starts at $29,995* MSRP — just five dollars more. Despite the near-identical entry price, the CX-5 delivers more horsepower and torque.
Yes. Standard AWD, a capable chassis, and a strong engine make the CX-5 well-suited for Northwest Indiana driving, from wet I-65 on-ramps to snowy back roads near Rensselaer or Crown Point.
Yes, every 2026 Mazda CX-5 trim includes i-Activ all-wheel drive as standard. Subaru also includes Symmetrical AWD standard on the Forester.
Art Hill Mazda is located at 957 W Lincoln Hwy, Merrillville, IN 46410. Call sales at 219-355-3537 to schedule a test drive or browse CX-5 inventory online.
Ready to find your 2026 Mazda CX-5?
Browse current inventory at Art Hill Mazda, explore financing options, or schedule a test drive at your convenience.
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