Compact SUV comparison · West Palm Beach, Florida
2026 Subaru Forester vs. 2026 Mazda CX-50 in West Palm Beach
The 2026 Forester is the stronger shortlist choice when usable cargo volume, ground clearance and a broad gas, Hybrid and Wilderness lineup matter most. The CX-50 may suit drivers who prefer a conventional six-speed automatic, available turbocharged power, a panoramic roof or its more efficient and more powerful hybrid system. Both include AWD, so the decision turns on space, powertrain character and the kind of capability you will actually use.
Which one belongs on your shortlist?
Choose the 2026 Subaru Forester if…
- You want up to 74.4 cubic feet of maximum published cargo volume.
- You value 8.7 inches of clearance, or 9.3 inches on Wilderness.
- You want gas, non-plug-in Hybrid and Wilderness configurations in one lineup.
- You may need the Wilderness model's 3,500-pound towing maximum when properly equipped.
Keep the Mazda CX-50 on your list if…
- You prefer a conventional six-speed automatic instead of a CVT.
- You want an available turbo engine with more output than the Forester gas engine.
- You prioritize a standard panoramic roof on selected CX-50 trims.
- You prefer the CX-50 Hybrid's 219 horsepower and 38-MPG combined estimate.
Compare exact configurations and decision points
This table keeps the entry gas AWD powertrains together. It does not apply turbo performance or hybrid efficiency to the CX-50 2.5 S Select.
| Decision point | 2026 Subaru Forester Base 2.5L gas / CVT / AWD | 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 S Select 2.5L gas / 6-speed / AWD |
|---|---|---|
| Drivetrain | Symmetrical AWD standard | i-Activ AWD standard |
| Published output | 180 horsepower | 187 horsepower / 185 lb-ft |
| Transmission | Lineartronic CVT | Six-speed automatic |
| Minimum ground clearance | 8.7 inches | 8.3 inches in the cited gas configuration; varies by trim |
| Maximum published cargo volume | 74.4 cu. ft. on Base; 69.1 on most other trims | 56.3 cu. ft. |
| Current electrified choice | Forester Hybrid: 194 hp, 35/34 MPG, estimated range up to 581 miles | CX-50 Hybrid: 219 hp, 38 MPG combined, estimated range 551 miles |
| Capability-focused alternative | Wilderness: 9.3-in clearance, all-terrain tires and 3,500-lb towing maximum | Meridian Edition: all-terrain tires; turbo power is available on other grades |
Manufacturer MSRPs exclude destination, taxes, title, license, options, dealer-installed equipment and dealer charges unless specifically stated. Dealer prices vary. EPA estimates are for comparison and actual mileage varies. Schumacher Subaru of West Palm Beach can provide current inventory and itemized pricing only for the Subaru vehicles it sells; it cannot quote or verify another dealer's price, fees, incentives or payments.
Where Mazda CX-50 has an advantage—and what Forester offers instead
CX-50 offers more gas-engine power and a six-speed automatic
The naturally aspirated Mazda has 7 more horsepower, and the available turbo widens the output gap. Forester does not claim the power advantage; it counters with substantially more published maximum cargo space, greater standard clearance and a Wilderness configuration built around tires, clearance and towing.
CX-50 Hybrid has stronger output and combined MPG
Mazda publishes 219 horsepower and 38 MPG combined. Forester Hybrid publishes 194 horsepower and 35/34 MPG, so the Subaru does not overcome Mazda's power or combined-efficiency advantage. Forester counters with 8.7 inches of clearance, more published maximum cargo volume and a longer manufacturer-estimated range.
CX-50 offers upscale and sporty options
A panoramic roof, available turbo and six-speed transmission give Mazda a distinct character. Forester's alternative is a more utility-focused cabin, a broader maximum-cargo figure and the separate Wilderness path. Drive both if steering and transmission feel matter more than the specifications.
How should you compare the two hybrid systems?
CX-50 Hybrid is the better numerical choice for shoppers prioritizing published combined MPG and system horsepower. Its official figures are 38 MPG combined and 219 horsepower.
Forester Hybrid is worth considering when clearance, cargo flexibility, standard Subaru AWD and estimated total range matter alongside fuel economy. Its 35/34 MPG estimate should not be presented as if it exceeds Mazda's combined rating.
Build a useful West Palm Beach comparison drive
Schumacher Subaru serves West Palm Beach, Wellington, Greenacres, Royal Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens and communities north toward Jupiter and Stuart. A short route can reveal more than a generic ranking:
- Compare rear visibility and the view of cyclists and traffic while leaving the Schumacher Subaru lot onto Okeechobee Boulevard.
- Use an I-95 merge to feel the difference between the Forester CVT and Mazda six-speed automatic.
- Fold the rear seats and measure the cargo shape for golf clubs, beach equipment, luggage or a dog crate.
- If considering a hybrid, drive the electrified trim itself and verify the exact battery packaging, cargo floor and equipment.
Visit Schumacher Subaru: 3021 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33409. Contact Sales before traveling so the exact Forester trim and test-drive time can be confirmed. Courtesy delivery for a completed new-vehicle purchase may be available to agreed locations from West Palm Beach through Port St. Lucie; ask the team to confirm eligibility and timing.
Questions shoppers ask about Forester and Mazda CX-50
Do both the Forester and CX-50 have standard AWD?
Yes. The cited 2026 Forester and CX-50 lineups include AWD as standard equipment.
Which has more cargo room?
Subaru publishes up to 74.4 cubic feet for Forester Base and 69.1 for most other Foresters. Mazda publishes 56.3 cubic feet for CX-50. Usable shape still needs an in-person check.
Which hybrid is more efficient?
Mazda publishes 38 MPG combined for CX-50 Hybrid. Subaru publishes 35 city and 34 highway MPG for Forester Hybrid. The rating formats differ, but Mazda's combined figure and higher system output are clear advantages.
Can Schumacher Subaru quote a Mazda CX-50?
No. We can provide current availability and itemized pricing for a Subaru Forester. Mazda information is limited to official manufacturer references.
Compare the Subaru before you decide
Tell our West Palm Beach team which priorities control your decision. We can show an available Forester, explain its exact equipment and provide itemized Subaru pricing. You do not need to own the competing brand or have a trade.
Optional: estimate the value of any trade. A trade is not required to use this guide or contact the Sales team.
