Subaru Outback vs. Mazda CX-50 | Keene, NH
2026 Mazda CX-50
Compare the 2026 Subaru Outback and Mazda CX-50 in Keene, NH
If you're shopping for a versatile crossover that feels equally at home commuting through town or exploring the outdoors, both the 2026 Subaru Outback and the Mazda CX-50 deserve consideration. However, drivers who prioritize interior space, cargo versatility, standard all-wheel drive, and genuine off-road capability will find several compelling advantages in the redesigned Subaru Outback.
Shoppers from Brattleboro, VT, to Claremont, NH, can explore the latest Subaru Outback models at Subaru of Keene. Here's a quick look at how the Outback compares to the CX-50 in a few key areas.
More Room for Passengers
One of the biggest advantages of the 2026 Subaru Outback is its spacious cabin. Whether you're commuting around Peterborough, NH, or embarking on a weekend family trip out of Rindge, NH, the extra interior space in the Outback makes everyday driving more comfortable.
The redesigned Outback offers noticeably more front and rear headroom than the Mazda CX-50, giving taller passengers additional comfort on long drives. Front-seat occupants also benefit from substantially greater legroom, while passengers in both rows will find appreciably more shoulder and hip room in the Outback compared to the CX-50.
Extra Space for Gear
The Subaru Outback also provides a significant advantage when it's time to load up. Behind the second row, the Outback offers 34.6 cubic feet of cargo space, and folding the rear seats expands that to an impressive 80.5 cubic feet. By comparison, the Mazda CX-50 offers 31.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 56.3 cubic feet with the seats folded.
The redesigned Subaru Outback also includes reinforced raised roof rails as standard equipment. Previously limited to the Wilderness trim, these roof rails can support up to 220 pounds while driving and up to 800 pounds while parked, making them more useful than the CX-50's low-profile roof rails, especially for carrying bikes, kayaks, cargo boxes, or even a rooftop tent.
Built for New England Adventures
Both models offer standard all-wheel drive, but Subaru continues to place a stronger emphasis on capability beyond the pavement.
Every 2026 Outback features 8.7 inches of ground clearance, exceeding the standard CX-50's 8.3 inches. For shoppers seeking even greater off-road capability, the Outback Wilderness raises ground clearance to 9.5 inches while adding all-terrain tires, skid plates, upgraded suspension tuning with electronically controlled shocks, and improved approach and departure angles. Wilderness models also include dual-function Subaru X-MODE® for enhanced low-speed traction management. Mazda's Meridian Edition offers rugged styling and all-terrain tires, but it doesn't match the Wilderness model's extensive off-road engineering.
Confident Performance
The standard engines in both vehicles deliver similar everyday performance, but buyers in Winchendon, MA, looking for additional power may appreciate the Outback XT or Wilderness trims. These models upgrade to a turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® engine that produces 260 horsepower using regular 87-octane gasoline. Combined with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and the Outback SUV's balanced chassis, this available powertrain provides confident performance for highway merging, mountain roads, and changing weather conditions alike.
The CX-50's available turbocharged engine makes 227 horsepower on regular fuel and reaches 256 horsepower only when premium gasoline is used.
VEHICLE COMPARISON
| 2026 Subaru Outback | 2026 Mazda CX-50 | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Power | 180 hp @ 5,800 rpm | 187 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Engine Torque | 178 lb-ft @ 3,700 rpm | 185 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm |
| City/Hwy/Combined MPG | 25 / 31 / 28 MPG | 24 / 30 / 27 MPG |
| Drivetrain | Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive | i-ACTIV All-Wheel Drive |
| Transmission | Lineartronic CVT (8-speed) | 6-speed automatic |
| Cargo Space | 34.6 cu. ft. | 31.4 cu. ft. |
| Starting MSRP | $36,445 | $31,395 |
Explore the 2026 Subaru Outback at Subaru of Keene
Reach out to Subaru of Keene today to learn more about the 2026 Subaru Outback, including its available feature configurations, financing opportunities, and the latest offers and incentives. Would you like to experience the accommodations, amenities, and drivability firsthand? We welcome you to schedule a test drive or stop by our Subaru retail location in Keene, NH, at your convenience. We'll be happy to show you around.
* Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, title or non-infringement. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include applicable tax, title, and license. Not responsible for typographical errors.
How Can We Help?
* Indicates a required field
-
Subaru of Keene
11 Production Ave
Keene, NH 03431
- Sales: (603) 355-5000
Loading Map...
