MAZDA CX-30 vs. Subaru Forester

Did you know that the Mazda CX-30 and the Subaru Forester both have standard all-wheel drive (AWD)? Yep, that’s right—i-Activ AWD® with Off-road Traction Assist on the Mazda and Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive on the Forester help maintain traction on any terrain.

So, if you plan to head off the beaten path or run into some inclement weather during your commute, their reliable drivetrains will help keep you on course.

Want the power of choice? The Mazda CX-30 is available with two exciting engines:

• 2.5L Skyactiv®-G engine: 191 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque
• Available 2.5L Skyactiv®-G Turbo engine: 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque

On the other hand, the Forester has just one engine available. Plus, its 2.5L engine only produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. While this power train will energize your commutes, you’ll have your breath taken away in the Mazda.

Each SUV has a center display that functions as your right hand. However, you may have an easier time viewing the Mazda’s screen. To the right of the steering wheel is an 8.8-inch display in the Mazda CX-30. The Forester comes behind with a 6.5-inch display, which can be upgraded to an 8-inch platform.

Despite this difference, you’ll have identical smartphone connectivity in either SUV: Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™. Listening to your favorite music, podcast, or audiobooks will be a breeze!

You’ve queued up your favorite true crime playlist, and you’re ready to hit Play. Which model’s speaker system do you want by your side? Starting off with the Forester, you’ll have four standard speakers or an available 9-speaker Harman Kardon® premium audio system.

On the other hand, the Mazda has an 8-speaker audio system with Mazda Harmonic Acoustics or an available Bose® 12-speaker premium audio system with Centerpoint® 2 and AudioPilot®. Having more speakers equals a more immersive listening experience.

Both the Mazda CX-30 and the Subaru Forester have similar standard safety suites. In fact, they even share a few brand-specific versions of these features in common, including:

• Smart Brake Support
• Lane Departure Warning System
• Lane-Keeping System
• Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go
• High Beam Control

Need to take a rest? Both models have a Driver Attention Alert feature that can answer that question for you! This feature watches your behavior for drowsy and distracted driving, and if detected, it will recommend you take a rest. The difference? While it’s available on the Subaru, it comes standard on the Mazda.

On the Mazda’s highest trim level, you’ll find a few unique safety features:

• 360° View Monitor
• Traffic Jam Assist

While the Forester has an available 180-Degree Front-View Monitor that’s helpful in off-roading scenarios, you’ll have a wraparound view in the Mazda. Plus, the available traffic feature is unique to the Mazda.