Compare repair costs, reliability, and owner reviews
Subaru Outback
$607
Average Annual
Repair Cost
Mazda CX-5
$447
Average Annual
Repair Cost
Overall Reliability Rating
3
1
2
Above Average
The Subaru Outback Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 10th out of 26 for midsize SUVs. The average annual repair cost is $607 which means it has average ownership costs. The frequency and severity of repairs are both fairly average when compared with all other vehicles.
4
1
2
Excellent
The Mazda CX-5 Reliability Rating is 4.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 1st out of 26 for midsize SUVs. The average annual repair cost is $447 which means it has excellent ownership costs. The severity of repairs is low, and these issues are less frequent than average, so the CX-5 is one of the more reliable vehicles on the road.
The Subaru Outback ranks highest in safety and ranks lowest in performance.
“This was my 5th of 6 Subaru's and most likly my last. Front rotor's were an issue until I replaced them with a slotted performance set on all 4 corners @ 40,000 miles. My model was a LL Bean with...”
“This was my 5th of 6 Subaru's and most likly my last. Front rotor's were an issue until I...”
“I am very disappointed in all the serious reports from previous owners of the Mazda CX-5 on the NHTSA website. These reports are not getting threw to the customers. All the while Mazda purchased...”
“I am very disappointed in all the serious reports from previous owners of the Mazda CX-5 on the...”
The Subaru Outback and the Mazda CX-5 vary in both length and height. The Outback is a midsize, two-row, car-based SUV that is longer and has a lower roof. The CX-5 is a compact, two-row SUV that is less long and taller. The Outback has all-wheel drive as standard equipment, and the CX-5 comes with front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive.
The Subaru Outback’s standard 170-horsepower engine gives up some power when compared to the Mazda CX-5’s 187 standard horsepower. But the Outback offers you the option of a 256-horsepower engine. The CX-5 doesn’t offer a more powerful version.
Another difference to consider: the Outback and CX-5 offer notably different amounts of cargo space. The Outback has 73.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, while the CX-5 has just 59.6 cubic feet.
One important area where the Mazda CX-5 excels is in its driving qualities. The CX-5 has an excellent combination of steering, ride and handling, making driving a pleasure any time you’re behind the wheel.
Choosing between these two vehicles comes down to whether you value on-road performance over off-road ability and cargo capacity. The Mazda CX-5 is an excellent SUV if you spend most of your time on paved roads. If you need to venture off the beaten path, or carry large loads, the Outback is a great choice.