If you’re cross-shopping compact SUVs in 2025 and 2026, the Mazda CX-50 and Subaru Outback may be on your list. Mazda’s approach is all about refinement and control, while Subaru’s reputation leans on ruggedness and all-weather dependability. But which should you consider? Let’s break it down.
Key Takeaways
- The CX-50 has a lower starting price than the Outback.
- The 2026 Outback trades its wagon look for a boxier SUV design and a refreshed interior.
- Mazda’s turbocharged powertrain delivers stronger performance and sharper handling.
- CX-50 trims start and remain at a lower price point than Outlook models.
Mazda keeps the CX-50 fresh by changing out the previously standard 8.8-inch infotainment screen for a larger 10.3-inch display. Amazon Alexa voice control joins the lineup, and safety systems receive meaningful updates, including a rear-seat alert and improved pedestrian detection for better nighttime recognition. A wireless charging pad is now standard on all but the base trim.
As of November 5, 2025, prices for the full lineup of the 2025 Mazda CX-50 are:
- Select: $31,995
- Preferred: $33,345
- Premium: $35,695
- Premium Plus: $39,195
- Turbo Meridian Edition: $42,945
- Turbo Premium: $42,995
- Turbo Premium Plus: $44,995
Subaru, on the other hand, goes through a more visible transformation for 2026. The Outback finally shifts from a lifted wagon to a genuine SUV shape, adopting squared-off lines and upright proportions that give it a tougher stance. Inside, you’ll find a cleaner dashboard layout and refreshed infotainment tech, but the basic formula remains familiar.
Here’s the 2026 Subaru Outback pricing lineup:
- Premium: $36,445
- Limited: $43,165
- Limited XT: $45,815
- Wilderness: $46,445
- Touring: $46,845
- Touring XT: $49,445
2025 Mazda CX-50 vs 2026 Subaru Outback Engine Power, Towing, and Fuel Economy
Every CX-50 uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, but the available turbocharged version is the one to go for—it cranks out 256 horses and 320 lb-ft of torque. The base engine produces 187 horsepower, which still feels powerful enough for everyday driving. All models come with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The CX-50’s towing capacity ranges from 2,000 pounds with the base engine to 3,500 pounds with the turbo. Fuel economy is strong, returning 24 mpg city, 30 highway for the base engine and 23 mpg city, 29 mpg highway for the turbo.
The Outback offers two engines—a 180-horsepower 2.5-liter and a 260-horsepower 2.4-liter turbo; both pair with a CVT. You can expect fuel economy to be similar to the outgoing model, at 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. Power and fuel numbers are respectable here, but nowhere near what the CX-50 offers.
Which SUV Comes Out Ahead?
Both models have strong reputations for reliability and everyday usefulness, but the 2025 Mazda CX-50 not only starts at a lower price point than the Outback, its turbo engine gives it the kind of authority you expect in a premium SUV.
If you’re after something that looks sharp, drives beautifully, and feels more expensive than it is, the 2025 CX-50 is the clear winner in this competition. Come by our Cogswell Motors showroom to take a closer look and find out why the CX-50 sets a new standard for what a compact SUV can be.