If you're comparing two-row SUVs to find your next adventure machine, our Subaru Outback vs. Mazda CX-50 guide from the experts at Capital Subaru of Greenville is an excellent place to start. While both models provide seating for five occupants, standard AWD, impressive towing capacities for their size, and modern technology, the Outback leaves its competitor stuck in the mud with superior off-roading capabilities, horsepower, and fuel efficiency.
SUV shoppers searching for a rugged new ride that's equal parts versatile and agile will want to compare the Subaru Outback vs. Mazda CX-50. These two-row SUVs bring AWD capability and available turbocharged performance to your drive, but they differ in off-roading and cargo-carrying capabilities. The Capital Subaru of Greenville team invites you to discover how these sport-utes stack up in key specifications so that you can make the right choice for your lifestyle and driving preferences.
| 2026 Subaru Outback | 2026 Mazda CX-50 | |
|---|---|---|
| Engines |
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| Horsepower |
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| Torque |
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| Transmission | Lineartronic CVT | 6-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Symmetrical AWD | AWD |
| Max Towing Capacity |
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| Max EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy) |
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| Length | 191.7 in | 185.8 in |
| Wheelbase | 108.1 in | 110.8 in |
| Max Passenger Volume | 112.3 cu ft | 100.3 cu ft |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo Space (Behind 2nd / 1st Row) | 34.6 / 80.5 cu ft | 31.4 / 56.3 cu ft |
Our Mazda CX-50 vs. Outback comparison kicks off by looking at the performance differences. Starting in base form, the Outback produces 180 horsepower from its 2.5-liter engine, which is in line with the Mazda's standard motor, a 187-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder. However, the Outback tops its competitor in standard towing capacity, with a 2,700-pound rating1 compared to just 2,000 pounds2 for the Mazda.
Move to the turbocharged engines in both models, and things get even more interesting. The 260-horsepower 2.4-liter unit offered in the Outback outperforms the Mazda CX-50 SUV's optional 2.5-liter turbo, which makes 227 horsepower (or 256 horsepower on premium fuel). A 3,500-pound towing capacity comes with both of these upgraded powertrains when properly equipped.
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard across the Outback lineup, providing top-notch traction on a variety of road and trail surfaces, as well as when things get slick. This world-class AWD system is engineered to maximize grip and confidence at all times, which is why it's often compared favorably to less established setups, such as the AWD system on the Mazda CX-50.
Subaru Outback ground clearance starts at an elevated 8.7 inches and reaches an even more capable 9.5 inches in the Wilderness edition. In contrast, the ground-clearing capabilities of the Mazda CX-50 range from 8.3 to 8.6 inches, falling short of every Outback configuration.
Fuel-conscious motorists will appreciate the excellent efficiency of the Outback, especially in its base version with the standard 2.5-liter engine. This sport-ute earns an EPA-estimated 25/31 MPG (City/Highway),3 topping its competitor by a slim margin.
In base form, the Mazda CX-50 returns an EPA-estimated 24/30 MPG (City/Highway).4 But the Outback gains a further advantage from its larger 18-gallon fuel tank, compared to the much smaller 15.9-gallon capacity of its rival. Go farther between fill-ups with a new Subaru Outback.
Care to compare the cabin appointments of the Mazda CX-50 vs. Subaru Outback? Upscale Nappa leather seat upholstery, ventilated front seating surfaces, Hands-Free Driving Assistance, and a 360-Degree Surround View Monitor are a handful of the available amenities in the Outback.
The Mazda CX-50 doesn't enjoy something as luxurious and elegant as Nappa leather seat material, but it does offer leatherette and leather surfaces. Front-seat ventilation and a 360-Degree View Monitor are also available.
Furthermore, the 2026 Outback comes standard with a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat and a power rear gate, while the CX-50 has a standard six-way manual-adjustable driver's seat and a power rear gate as available.
Comparing the 2026 Subaru Outback vs. Mazda CX-50 in terms of their infotainment systems, a few differences stick out. A 12.1-inch multimedia system comes standard in the 2026 Outback, while a 10.25-inch screen is fitted in the 2026 Mazda CX-50.
The Outback infotainment system enables wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration and is coupled with a 12.3-inch full digital instrument cluster. In contrast, the Mazda gets a smaller 7-inch gauge cluster, though wireless smartphone integration is also standard.
| 2026 Subaru Outback | 2026 Mazda CX-50 |
|---|---|
| Premium | 2.5 S Select |
| Limited | 2.5 S Preferred |
| Touring | 2.5 S Meridian Edition |
| Wilderness | 2.5 S Premium |
| Limited XT | 2.5 Turbo |
| Touring XT | 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition |
| 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus |
If you're interested in exploring any of the above equipment levels, browse our Subaru Outback specials and inventory and come by our Subaru dealership for a test drive.
Have additional questions about how the Outback stacks up against the Mazda CX-50 or another sport-ute? We welcome you to contact Capital Subaru of Greenville for more details.
The Subaru Outback offers far more cargo space than the Mazda CX-50. With the rear seats folded, the Outback boasts 80.5 cubic feet, while the Mazda only manages 56.3 cubic feet. It's closer with all seats upright, but the Subaru still comes out on top there, too, with 34.6 cubic feet vs. 31.4 cubic feet.
Compare the Subaru Outback vs. Mazda CX-50 safety features, and you'll find them pretty evenly matched. The Outback boasts EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, a DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System, Rear Cross-Traffic Warning, and an available 360-Degree Surround-View Monitor. The Mazda includes a Driver Attention Alert, a Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and an available 360-Degree View Monitor with See-Through View.
The maximum towing capacities of the Subaru Outback and Mazda CX-50 are the same. When properly equipped with their respective turbocharged engines, these rugged SUVs can both tow up to 3,500 pounds. However, the Outback holds an advantage: Its standard trailering capacity of 2,700 pounds1 tops that of the CX-50, which starts at just 2,000 pounds.2
1Maximum towing capacity varies by trim level. Trailer brakes may be needed. See your retailer for details.
2Towing capacities shown are maximums and must be reduced by the weight of any passenger, cargo hitch or optional equipment in the towing vehicle. Please refer to vehicle Owner's Manual for details regarding towing capacities and other valuable information. Towing a trailer may have an effect on vehicle's handling, braking, durability, performance and driving economy. For specific information on recommended or required equipment, see your Mazda Dealer. Hitches are available through manufacturers other than Mazda.
3EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage will vary with driving conditions and your vehicle's condition.
4EPA-estimated mileage. Actual results will vary.
