Compact SUV comparison · Delray Beach, Florida
Forester or CX-5: the short answer
The 2026 Forester is the stronger shortlist choice for shoppers who value higher published gas fuel economy, 8.7 inches of ground clearance, standard raised roof rails, and a model range that includes gas, Hybrid, and Wilderness choices. The 2026 CX-5 may suit drivers who prefer a six-speed automatic, a little more base-engine output, a larger standard touchscreen, and a 40/20/40-split rear seat. Both base gas models include all-wheel drive and have manufacturer-published starting MSRPs only $5 apart before destination; compare the actual trims, then ask us for itemized pricing on the Forester we sell.
Which compact SUV fits your priorities?
Choose the 2026 Forester if you prioritize:
- 26 city / 33 highway EPA-estimated MPG in the Base gas trim
- 8.7 inches of ground clearance and standard raised roof rails
- Up to 74.4 cubic feet of cargo room in the Base trim with the rear seatbacks folded
- Gas, Hybrid, and Wilderness choices within the 2026 Forester family
Choose the 2026 CX-5 if you prioritize:
- A six-speed automatic and 187-horsepower gas engine
- A standard 12.9-inch touchscreen with Google built-in through a one-year Mazda Connected Services trial
- A 40/20/40-split reclining rear seat with a center pass-through
- Five gas trims with a consistent 2.5-liter engine and standard AWD
Base gas models: a like-for-like comparison
These figures apply to the exact configurations named in the column headers. Equipment and pricing change by trim and package.
| Decision point | 2026 Subaru Forester Base 2.5L gas / CVT / AWD | 2026 Mazda CX-5 2.5 S 2.5L gas / 6-speed automatic / AWD |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP before destination | $29,995 | $29,990 |
| Engine output | 180 hp / 178 lb-ft | 187 hp / 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | Lineartronic continuously variable transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive | i-ACTIV AWD |
| EPA-estimated MPG, city / highway | 26 / 33 | 24 / 30 |
| Standard center display | Dual 7.0-inch Subaru Multimedia system | 12.9-inch touchscreen with Google built-in through a one-year trial |
| Rear seat configuration | 60/40-split flat-folding seatbacks | 40/20/40-split reclining seatbacks with center pass-through |
| Roof rails | Raised roof rails standard | Not listed on 2.5 S; black roof rails begin with 2.5 S Preferred |
Manufacturer-published starting MSRPs exclude destination, taxes, title, license, and other charges. Dealer selling prices vary. EPA estimates are for comparison; actual mileage varies. Schumacher Subaru of Delray can provide itemized pricing for an exact Forester; we do not quote or verify dealer pricing or incentives for Mazda vehicles.
Price and equipment: look beyond the $5 base-MSRP difference
The base prices are nearly identical, but the equipment priorities differ. Forester Base includes raised roof rails and its EyeSight driver-assistance suite, while the CX-5 2.5 S includes a larger touchscreen, Google built-in through a one-year connected-services trial, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, rain-sensing wipers, and a 40/20/40 rear seat.
Compare equipped vehicles instead of choosing from the headline price alone. A Forester Premium adds an 11.6-inch multimedia system, panoramic power moonroof, heated front seats, windshield wiper de-icer, X-MODE, and a power driver's seat. A CX-5 2.5 S Select adds leatherette and microsuede-trimmed seats, rear air vents, wireless phone charging, and wireless smartphone integration. Actual inventory and packages change.
Gas, Hybrid, or Wilderness?
The 2026 gas Forester Base posts higher EPA city and highway estimates than the 2026 CX-5 2.5 S. The Mazda counters with modestly higher horsepower and torque and a conventional six-speed automatic. A test drive can help you decide which response and transmission behavior you prefer in local traffic and at highway speeds.
Forester also gives shoppers two distinct paths beyond the standard gas trims: Hybrid trims for a different efficiency choice and Wilderness for more trail-oriented equipment, 9.3 inches of ground clearance, and a 3,500-pound maximum towing capacity. The current official 2026 CX-5 lineup uses one 2.5-liter gas powertrain across five trims. Do not compare Forester Hybrid or Wilderness figures with the CX-5 2.5 S without labeling the change in configuration.
AWD and South Florida road use
Both base models make AWD standard, so the useful comparison is how each complete vehicle feels and fits your routine. Forester Base has 8.7 inches of ground clearance. Mazda publishes 8.0 to 8.2 inches across the 2026 CX-5 lineup, depending on trim. Compare tires, visibility, ride, controls, and the exact ground clearance shown for the vehicle you may buy.
AWD can help distribute power when traction changes, but it cannot make standing or moving floodwater safe. Avoid flooded roads and follow official road closures during heavy South Florida rain.
Cabin space and technology: test what you will actually use
Forester Base provides up to 110.8 cubic feet of passenger room and up to 74.4 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seatbacks folded. The CX-5's standard center pass-through can be useful when carrying a longer item while keeping two outboard rear seats available. Maximum cargo figures do not show how much room remains when the rear seats carry passengers.
Bring a stroller, beach chairs, golf bags, pet crate, or the item you carry most. Keep every passenger seat you need upright, check the rear opening and lift-in height, and connect your phone before deciding. Screen size matters less if the controls and menus do not fit how you drive.
Build a useful Delray Beach test drive
Shoppers from Delray Beach, Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, and Lake Worth can use one visit to compare the details that affect daily ownership:
- Check low-speed visibility, turning, and parking comfort for busy shopping areas and tighter spaces.
- Compare seat support, climate controls, lane-assistance settings, merging response, and road noise at the speeds you normally drive.
- Load the people and gear you regularly carry instead of relying only on maximum-space figures.
- Ask for itemized Subaru pricing for the exact Forester year, trim, stock number, accessories, and optional trade you are considering.
Schumacher Subaru of Delray is at 2102 South Federal Highway, Suite C, Delray Beach, FL 33483. Contact the team before traveling so availability and test-drive timing can be confirmed.
Compare the Forester before you choose your next compact SUV
Whether this is your first SUV or you are replacing any vehicle, tell us what else is on your list. We can help you compare the exact Forester and CX-5 trims, manufacturer-published MSRP and equipment, seating, outward visibility, cargo fit and controls, then provide itemized pricing for the Forester we sell. If useful, bring your current vehicle for a practical fit check and optional appraisal; owning a Mazda or another competitor is not required.
2026 Forester vs. CX-5 questions
Is the 2026 Forester cheaper than the 2026 Mazda CX-5?
Their base MSRPs before destination are nearly the same: $29,995 for Forester Base and $29,990 for CX-5 2.5 S. Destination charges, trim equipment, accessories, taxes, title, license, dealer fees, and the actual selling price affect the final comparison.
Do both compact SUVs have standard all-wheel drive?
Yes. Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard across the 2026 Forester lineup, and Mazda i-ACTIV AWD is standard across the current 2026 CX-5 lineup.
Which base gas model has better EPA fuel-economy estimates?
The 2026 Forester Base is rated at 26 city / 33 highway MPG. The 2026 CX-5 2.5 S is rated at 24 city / 30 highway / 26 combined MPG. Actual results vary with traffic, speed, weather, loading, maintenance, and driving habits.
Does the 2026 Mazda CX-5 offer more horsepower?
The CX-5 2.5 S gas engine is rated at 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. The Forester Base gas engine is rated at 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft. A short test drive is still more useful than output alone because transmission behavior, vehicle response, seating, and visibility also shape the experience.
Can I get a 2026 Forester Hybrid or CX-5 Hybrid?
Subaru offers 2026 Forester Hybrid trims. Mazda's current official 2026 CX-5 lineup lists five trims using the 2.5-liter gas engine and does not list a CX-5 Hybrid. Confirm current production and availability before making a purchase decision.
Which one should I test-drive first in Delray Beach?
Start with the model that best matches your priorities, then drive the other while those impressions are fresh. Forester is a logical first stop if efficiency, clearance, cargo flexibility, Hybrid, or Wilderness choices matter most. CX-5 deserves a look if its transmission, base-engine output, touchscreen, or rear-seat design matters more.
Put an available Forester on your shortlist
Browse current 2026 Foresters or tell our Delray sales team which trim and stock number you want to see. If you are replacing a vehicle, an optional trade valuation is also available. Availability changes, and an inquiry does not reserve a vehicle or confirm an appointment.
Continue your research with the Subaru Forester guide or return to our Subaru vehicle comparison library.
