If you're in the market for a new SUV, the 2024 models of the Mazda CX-50 and Subaru Crosstrek are stepping up their game with a host of exciting updates. Whether you're a fan of sleek design, advanced technology, or rugged capability, these two popular SUVs have something new to offer. Continue reading for an in-depth comparison of the two models.
What's New for 2024?
Fresh updates breathe new life into the 2024 versions of these popular models. The CX-50 now showcases a Zircon Sand paint option. This light beige metallic finish adds a refined look to its exterior, and available Terracotta leather seats give the interior a luxurious feel. Mazda has also boosted tech by adding wireless charging for Qi-compatible devices.
The Crosstrek brings its own set of upgrades. A bold new Sun Blaze exterior color option will turn heads. Off-roaders will appreciate the addition of the rugged Wilderness trim and its 9.3-inch ground clearance to the Crosstrek lineup.
Specs and Dimensions
The CX-50's 110.8-inch wheelbase is slightly larger than the Crosstrek's 105.1 inches, which makes the Mazda's ride smoother and offers more interior room. The CX-50, at 3,706 pounds, outweighs the 3,276-pound Crosstrek, making the Mazda feel more stable on the road. The Subaru boasts a larger 16.6-gallon fuel tank, compared to the CX-50's 15.9-gallon capacity. For tight turns, the Crosstrek needs just 35.4 feet, while its competitor needs 36 feet.
The Crosstrek is more compact at 176.4 inches long, 70.9 inches wide, and 62.8 inches tall. There's also a substantial gap in power between the two vehicles. Cargo space is where these models really differ. The CX-50 has a substantial 31.4 cubic feet behind the back seats. This makes it great for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The Crosstrek only has 19.9 cubic feet of space, slightly less than previous models. This difference in cargo capacity might sway buyers who prioritize ample storage. Our team at Bountiful Mazda has put together this comparison to help you decide on the right vehicle for your needs.
Features and Trims
The Mazda CX-50 and Subaru Crosstrek each offer multiple trim levels. The CX-50's base model, the 2.5 S, starts at $28,925. That's more than the Crosstrek's lowest-priced $24,995 option. At the top end, the CX-50's Turbo Premium Plus costs $44,720. This price is much higher than the Subaru's Limited at $30,895.
However, the Mazda exudes more luxury. It has an eight-speaker sound system, which beats the Subaru's four speakers. You can even get a 12-speaker Bose system in the CX-50. The best the Crosstrek offers is a 10-speaker Harman Kardon setup.
The Mazda CX-50 offers a range of trims, including the 2.5 S, Select, Preferred, Preferred Plus, Premium, and Premium Plus, with additional Turbo options for those seeking more power. The Crosstrek keeps it simple with the Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Wilderness trims. Both SUVs have wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in higher trims, and the Mazda has a 10.25-inch touchscreen. The Subaru offers an 11.6-inch touch screen on higher trims. More refined CX-50 models add premium features, such as heated and ventilated seats.
Both vehicles offer all-wheel drive, but adventurers should consider the Turbo Meridian trim for the Mazda or the Wilderness trim for the Subaru. The Mazda looks and feels more upscale inside, taking advantage of better-quality materials for a more sophisticated feel.
Safety Tech and More
Safety takes center stage in both the Mazda CX-50 and Subaru Crosstrek designs. All CX-50s come with i-Activsense, while Crosstrek models have EyeSight. Both vehicles use advanced technology to keep you safe.
These small SUVs offer impressive suites of safety features. You'll find adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure alerts on both. The CX-50's Traffic Jam Assist, available in higher trims, functions at speeds of up to 40 mph to ease urban driving significantly.
Subaru's new EyeSight system has wider-angle cameras to see more of the road. Plus, it can steer away from danger under 50 mph. That's a big advantage in tight spots.
Want to see all around your SUV? The CX-50 Turbo Premium Plus has you covered. Its 360-degree monitor uses four cameras. It's like having eyes in the back of your head when you park. The Mazda also excels with sophisticated headlights that move and adjust on their own. The Crosstrek's top trim has moving headlights too, but they're not as advanced.
Both automobiles feature automatic braking when reversing, a particularly useful feature in parking lots. The CX-50 adds extra airbags by your knees, which helps if you get hit from the side. Every Mazda has blind-spot monitoring, but this is an option on the Crosstrek. Both vehicles also feature a rearview monitor.
Performance and Handling
The Mazda CX-50 and Subaru Crosstrek offer different driving experiences. The power gap shows in speed tests. The base Mazda hits 60 mph in 7.7 seconds, while the Subaru lags at 9.2 seconds. Performance enthusiasts will appreciate the CX-50's turbo option, which delivers 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque, achieving zero to 60 mph in just 6.6 seconds. The Crosstrek tries to catch up with its optional 2.5-liter engine, but it still falls short of the Mazda's base engine output.
For gas mileage, the Subaru takes the crown. Its 2.5-liter engine sips fuel at 26 city, 33 highway, and 29 combined mpg. The CX-50's turbo engine consumes more at 23 city, 29 highway, and 25 combined mpg, trading efficiency for raw power.
Both vehicles shine in tough weather with all-wheel-drive systems. The Mazda offers several different drive modes, such as Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing, that let drivers tackle various terrains. The Crosstrek's X-Mode enhances the AWD system on slick surfaces to boost its off-road skills. CX-50 Turbo models can tow up to 3,500 pounds, matching the Wilderness trim but beating other Subaru trims, which max out at 1,500 pounds.
These SUVs handle quite differently. The Mazda feels zippier on the road, hitting 0.87 g on the skidpad in its 2.5 Turbo version. The Subaru, while capable, aims for comfort and off-road prowess, reaching 0.81 g in the Limited trim. Both automobiles use a MacPherson strut front suspension, but their rear setups differ. The CX-50 uses a multi-link design, while the Crosstrek opts for a double-wishbone setup. These distinct suspension choices shape each vehicle's unique handling characteristics.
Book Your Test Drive Today at Bountiful Mazda
Boasting powerful engine options, spacious cargo capacity, and an upscale interior, the Mazda CX-50 stands out from the crowd. Compared to the Subaru Crosstrek, this vehicle offers superior handling and greater towing capacity. Call us at 801-397-2277 to take it for a test drive.
Located at 2815 South Main St. in Bountiful, our dealership prioritizes your satisfaction. Our knowledgeable team will explain the CX-50's features, including its top-notch safety tech and robust warranty coverage, and our finance experts will work with you to put you into your dream car. We're open Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
