2024 Mazda CX-50 vs. Subaru Outback

In this showdown, we put two formidable contenders against each other: the 2024 Mazda CX-50 vs. Subaru Outback. Let's dive into the details to see which crossover comes out on top.

Mazda CX-50 vs. Subaru Outback: At a Glance

The CX-50 boasts Mazda's sleek KODO design, emphasizing aerodynamic efficiency for a visually stunning and dynamically agile driving experience. Meanwhile, the Subaru Outback embodies adventure with rugged design cues, including raised ground clearance and sturdy roof rails, catering to outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking off-road capability and reassurance.

Mazda CX-50 vs. Subaru Outback Interior

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 offers 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 56.3 cubic feet when seats are folded. Inside, it boasts a premium, spacious interior with high-quality materials and intuitive tech.

The Subaru Outback provides ample space with 32.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 75.6 cubic feet when the second row is folded down.

Subaru Outback vs. Mazda CX-50 Exterior

On the outside, both the CX-50 and the Outback showcase distinctive styling that sets them apart from the crowd. The CX-50's sleek lines and bold grille make a statement on the road, while the Outback's rugged charm and athletic stance command attention wherever it goes. Whether you prefer elegance or adventure, both crossovers deliver in terms of exterior design.

Engine and Performance Differences

Producing 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque with regular gasoline, the CX-50 steps up to 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque with 93 octane premium fuel. Every CX-50 comes equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. With this, you can get from 0-60 in 8.5 seconds.

For the Outback, the standard engine is a robust 2.5L SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder. Paired with a Lineartronic® CVT (continuously variable transmission), this engine delivers 182 horsepower, 176 pound-feet of torque, ensuring a seamless driving experience. The Outback goes from 0-60 in 8.8 seconds, for the standard trim.

Fuel Economy Comparison

Let's compare the 2024 Mazda CX-50 vs. Subaru Outback at fuel efficiency. 

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 is a sleek crossover SUV offering refined performance and decent fuel efficiency. Equipped with a standard SKYACTIV®-G 2.5 engine and paired with a SKYACTIV®-Drive 6-speed automatic transmission, along with standard i-ACTIV AWD®, it achieves up to 24 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway according to EPA estimates. Alternatively, opting for the available SKYACTIV®-G 2.5 with a twin-scroll turbocharger yields an EPA-estimated 23 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway.

The 2.5L SUBARU BOXER® 4-Cylinder engine boasts an EPA-estimated 32 MPG on the highway and 26 MPG in the city, prioritizing efficiency and performance. Meanwhile, the 2.4L Turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® 4-Cylinder engine delivers spirited performance with an EPA-estimated 29 MPG on the highway and 22 MPG in the city.

Safety and Technology Differences

The CX-50 comes equipped with a suite of advanced driver-assist features, including Mazda's i-Activsense technology, while the Outback offers Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology for added peace of mind on the road. With cutting-edge safety and infotainment systems, both crossovers prioritize the well-being and convenience of their passengers.

Mazda CX-50 vs. Subaru Outback Pricing

2024 Mazda CX-50

2.5 S Select 

• Starting at $30,300: i-Activ AWD®, SKYACTIV®-G 2.5 engine, Mazda Radar Cruise Control, Wireless Apple CarPlay™, Mazda Connect™ Infotainment System, 10.25-inch display.

2.5 S Preferred 

• Starting at $31,650: Programmable Rear Power Liftgate, 8-way power adjustable driver's seat, 3-level heated front seat.

2.5 S Premium 

•     Starting at $34,000: Power sliding-glass panoramic moonroof, Wireless phone charger, 12-speaker Bose surround sound system. 

2.5 S Premium Plus 

• Starting at $37,500: Ventilated front seats, Leather-trimmed seats, 20-inch aluminum alloy wheels with black metallic finish and machine cut.

2.5 Turbo 

• Starting at $38,000: Mazda Intelligent Drive Select with Towing mode, SKYACTIV®-G 2.5 engine with Twin-scroll Turbocharger, Towing capacity of up to 3,500 lbs.

2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition 

• Starting at $40,800: 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels with black metallic finish, P225/60 R18 all-terrain tires.

2.5 Turbo Premium 

• Starting at $41,300: Heated steering wheel, Active Driving Display, Automatic power-folding side mirrors, Black leather with brown or Terracotta leather.

2.5 Turbo Premium Plus 

• Starting at $43,300: Heated rear seats, 360-degree View Monitor, Traffic Jam Assist safety technology, Black leather with brown or Terracotta leather.

2024 Subaru Outback

Base 

•     $28,895: 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, LED steering responsive headlights, Eyesight Driver Assist Technology, Starlink multimedia system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. 

Premium 

•     $31,195: 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen display, Dual-zone automatic climate control, Power-adjustable driver's seat, LED fog lights, All-weather package with heated front seats, Tinted rear windows, Leather-wrapped steering wheel. 

Onyx Edition 

•     $36,105: Dual-function X-MODE, Glossy black accents, Unique interior trim, Two engine options, Seamless style and function blend. 

Limited 

•     $35,795: Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, Hands-free liftgate, Keyless entry and ignition, Leather upholstery, Premium 12-speaker Harman Kardon® audio system, 18-inch wheels. 

Touring 

•     $40,345: Navigation system, DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation System, Sunroof, Ventilated front seats, Nappa leather-trimmed upholstery. 

Onyx Edition XT 

•     $39,360: 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, StarTex® water-repellent upholstery, Hands-free power rear gate, Push button start, Dual-function X-MODE with hill descent control. 

Wilderness 

•     $39,960: 9.5 inches of ground clearance, Front skid plates, 17-inch matte-black-finish off-road wheels, All-terrain GEOLANDAR® tires, Reinforced roof rack, Water-repellent simulated leather upholstery. 

Limited XT 

•     $40,195: Turbocharged 2.4-liter engine, 11.6-inch touchscreen display with navigation, Power moonroof, Heated steering wheel, DriverFocus® distraction mitigation system. 

Touring XT 

•     $42,795: Nappa leather-trimmed upholstery, Ventilated front seats, Power folding mirrors, 180-degree front-view monitor. 

Who Should Buy the 2024 Mazda CX-50?

Choosing between the 2024 Mazda CX-50 vs. Subaru Outback is no easy task. However, if you're someone who values style and sophistication without compromising on performance, the CX-50 might be the perfect fit for you. Its elegant design, premium interior, and agile handling make it ideal for urban dwellers who navigate busy city streets with ease. 

Get Your 2024 Mazda CX-50 at Central Mazda

Ready to experience the 2024 Mazda CX-50 for yourself? Visit Central Mazda today to explore our inventory and schedule a test drive. Our knowledgeable staff is here to help you find the perfect CX-50 trim level to suit your lifestyle and budget.