The 2026 Mazda CX-5 is the roomier choice on the listed specifications; the Subaru Crosstrek starts at a lower price and has more ground clearance in a shorter body. The CX-5 starts at $29,990, while the Crosstrek Base starts at $26,995. Both have all-wheel-drive appeal, but they are not the same size class: choose based on your budget, passenger and cargo needs, fuel use, and the roads you drive.
How the CX-5 and Crosstrek differ
The CX-5 is the larger vehicle by the dimensions and cargo figures listed in Car and Driver’s 2026 comparison. Consumer Reports characterizes the Crosstrek as a subcompact SUV and notes its visibility and light off-road utility. That is useful context, not a direct measurement against the CX-5.
| Specification | 2026 Mazda CX-5 | 2026 Subaru Crosstrek |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $29,990 for 2.5 S, according to Mazda | $26,995 for Base, according to Subaru |
| Length | 184.6 in. | 176.4 in. |
| Cargo volume behind second row | 33.7 cu. ft. | 19.9 cu. ft. |
| Second-row legroom | 39.9 in. | 36.5 in. |
| Ground clearance | 8.0 in. | 8.7 in. |
| Fuel economy | 24 city / 30 highway / 26 combined mpg, Mazda listing | 26 city / 33 highway mpg for Base; 29 combined mpg for the configuration in Car and Driver’s comparison |
Dimensions, cargo volume, clearance, and the compared Crosstrek combined-economy figure are from Car and Driver’s 2026 comparison; Mazda’s economy and price are from its 2026 CX-5 page, and Subaru’s Base price and economy are from its 2026 Crosstrek specifications. Crosstrek figures vary by trim and powertrain, so check the EPA row for the exact version you are considering. Published cargo volume is not a hands-on loading test.
Which one costs less?
At manufacturer starting prices, the Crosstrek Base is $2,995 below the CX-5 2.5 S. Mazda lists five CX-5 trims: 2.5 S at $29,990, Select at $31,990, Preferred at $34,250, Premium at $36,900, and Premium Plus at $38,990. Subaru’s cited starting price is for the Crosstrek Base; it should not be treated as the price of every Crosstrek configuration.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
#1 Best Overall
These are starting MSRPs, not out-the-door or negotiated prices. Destination, location, dealer offers, taxes, and the equipment or powertrain selected change what you pay. Compare similarly equipped versions and get written quotes that include destination and local charges before deciding which is less expensive for you.
Which is better for passengers and cargo?
The listed measurements favor the CX-5 for rear-seat legroom and cargo volume behind the second row. That can matter if you regularly carry adults in back, a stroller, or several bags. The Crosstrek is shorter overall, which may be more convenient in a tight parking space, but the published dimensions alone do not establish how easy either vehicle is to park or load.
Bring your usual luggage, child seat, or stroller to a test drive. Check the rear-seat fit with the front seats set for the people who will use them, and see whether the cargo floor and opening work for your items. Volume figures cannot tell you whether a particular bulky object will fit.
How do fuel economy and powertrains compare?
Mazda says the 2026 CX-5 launches with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 187 horsepower, a six-speed automatic transmission, and standard i-ACTIV all-wheel drive. Mazda lists EPA estimates of 24 mpg city, 30 highway, and 26 combined.
Rank #3
![[4+128G] Car Radio for Mazda CX-5 CX 5 CX5 2012-2015 Carplay & Android Auto](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51PQ5dUM8oL._SL160_.jpg)
- For Mazda CX-5 Radio: This car stereo fits for Mazda CX-5 CX 5 CX5 2012 2013 2014 2015. Please carefully confirm the vehicle center console, model and year before purchasing. [Notes: If your original car is equipped with a small screen, please contact us to purchase the suitable product]. You can also get online support if you are unsure about compatibility and wiring harness.
- Android Car Radio: Equipped with the Latest Android OS and a Powerful 4GB RAM + 128GB ROM combo, this CX-5 stereo delivers faster app loading and seamless multitasking without lag. The spacious 128GB storage allows you to download thousands of songs, store massive offline map data, etc., and install all your favorite apps directly from the APP Play Store for an interconnected driving experience.
- 9 Inch Incell Screen & Custom UI: This Mazda CX 5 car stereo is equipped with a 9-inch HD In-cell touchscreen, 1280*720 HD resolution, it provides clear images, vibrant colors, and responsive touch. In addition, it supports multiple UI themes and customizable homepage app displays, allowing you to set up the UI according to your preferences to match your mood or vehicle interior.
- Wireless Carplay and Android Auto: By connecting your smartphone to this Mazda CX5 stereo via CarPlay and Android Auto, you can directly access the core functions of your phone on the head unit. Through your phone's intelligent voice assistant, you can quickly access the functions you need with simple voice commands. While maintaining safe driving, you can still stay connected, entertained, and navigated.
- Bluetooth 5.0 & FM/RDS Radio & EQ Audio: With Bluetooth 5.0 technology, it enables clear hands-free calls and high-fidelity Bluetooth music; Equipped with FM/RDS radio, it supports up to 54 preset stations, making it easy to instantly listen to news, music, and other favorite channels; Built-in adjustable EQ settings, allows you to adjust the sound effects according to your liking, creating the perfect listening experience.
Do not apply one fuel-economy or powertrain figure to the whole Crosstrek range. Subaru’s 2026 specification page provides trim-specific information and includes a hybrid variant. It lists the Base at 26 mpg city and 33 highway; Car and Driver’s comparison gives 29 mpg combined for its compared Crosstrek configuration. Use the EPA estimate for the exact trim and powertrain you plan to buy. Real-world mileage can differ from EPA estimates, and the available figures do not establish which vehicle will cost less to fuel for your driving without annual mileage and local fuel prices.
Which is better for rough roads and snow?
The Crosstrek has 8.7 inches of listed ground clearance versus 8.0 inches for the CX-5, while the CX-5 is longer and has more listed cargo room. The clearance difference may be relevant for rutted access roads, snow, or steep driveways, but ground clearance alone does not establish off-road capability. Tires, road conditions, driving technique, and the exact vehicle configuration matter too.
Rank #4
- [Fitment] Car cover for Mazda CX-5. Please make sure your car model and the year before purchase. Warm Tips: Please do not cover repainted or wet vehicles immediately
- [Good Design] 6 pcs Reflective Warning Bar: Designed with fluorescent orange color emit light at night to avoid unexpected impact. Driver Door Zipper: For easy access anytime. Windproof Straps and Elasticized Hem: Windproof design to fix on the car against strong winds.
- [Upgraded Material] Adopts material with 210D-PU Oxford double stitched and reinforced seams, made for indoor and all outdoor elements. It is good for snowproofing in winter and keeps cool in summer
- [All Weather Protection] Our car cover provides overall protection of vehicle from all weather elements: dust, snow, leaves, rain and other harmful material
- [Package Include] 1x Car Cover, 1x Storage Bag. Fully protects your car like a mobile garage. With the effective car cover, your car's good condition will last as long as possible
Both manufacturers describe all-wheel-drive equipment in their lineups, but compare the precise trim and powertrain rather than assuming every version is identical. If your route includes unpaved stretches or winter conditions, inspect the tire specification and test the vehicle on comparable roads when possible.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What do the 2026 safety ratings say?
IIHS lists the 2026 Mazda CX-5 as a Top Safety Pick+ and shows good ratings across the displayed core crashworthiness results. IIHS also lists the 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid as a Top Safety Pick+, but award applicability and ratings depend on the tests and versions specified by IIHS. Do not extend the Hybrid award to every Crosstrek.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Best Value
- Compatible for Mazda CX-5 2017-2026 Windshield Sun Shade: Precisely designed windshield sunshade fit for Mazda CX-5 - 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 to provide full windshield coverage with 100% light blocker.
- Maximum Heat & UV Blocking Windshield Sunshade: Reflective windshield sun shade with a 4-layer cover blocks 99.89% of UVA & 99.95% of UVB and offers SPF 100 & UPF 80+ protection, reducing harmful UV rays and extreme heat, keeping the car’s interior cooler while protecting the dashboard, seats, and steering wheel.
- Premium Insulated Sunshade Material: High-density 280T front windshield sunshade with multi-layer reflective insulation effectively deflects sunlight and reduces interior heat buildup during hot summer days.
- Quick Install Folding Windshield Sun Shade: Foldable Front Window shade installs in seconds and stores easily in the glove box or door pocket when not in use.
- Durable Long-Lasting Windshield Sunshade: Reinforced stitched edges prevent warping, bending, or tearing, making the sun shade ideal for daily windshield protection and long-term use.
Before treating an award as applicable to a vehicle you are buying, check the current IIHS pages for the exact model year, powertrain, and relevant equipment, including headlights. See IIHS’s 2026 CX-5 ratings, IIHS’s 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid ratings, and the IIHS annual award list. An award is not a substitute for checking applicability to your chosen configuration.
Quick Recap
Which should you choose?
- Choose the CX-5 if the higher starting price fits your budget and the additional listed rear-seat legroom and cargo volume better suit your regular passengers and loads.
- Choose the Crosstrek if its lower Base starting price, shorter length, or greater listed ground clearance better fits your priorities. Confirm the price, economy, and safety details for the trim and powertrain you want.
- Compare both in person if you are unsure about rear-seat comfort, parking, visibility, cargo loading, or the ride on your usual roads. Those decisions cannot be settled by specifications alone.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
