Mazda CX-50 vs. Subaru Crosstrek
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek is the cheaper one to own — roughly $3,713 less over five years, mostly because it holds its value better. The Mazda CX-50 counters with more cargo room (31.4 vs 20 cu ft).
Go with the Subaru Crosstrek for the better long-term value; consider the Mazda CX-50 if you prioritize more cargo space.
Last updated July 2026 · National-average estimates
Mazda CX-50 vs. Subaru Crosstrek
| Metric | Mazda CX-50 | Subaru Crosstrek |
|---|---|---|
| MotiveGrid Score | 86 | 75 |
| Cost of Ownership | 90 | 91 |
| Powertrain | 67 | 63 |
| Driver Assistance | 32 | 32 |
| Livability | 60 | 61 |
| Safety | 99 | 72 |
| 5-Year Cost to Own | $42,662 | $38,949 |
| Depreciation (5-yr) | $11,631 | $9,502 |
| Fuel / Energy (5-yr) | $12,187 | $11,610 |
| Insurance (5-yr) | $9,535 | $9,195 |
| Maintenance (5-yr) | $1,765 | $2,095 |
| Tires (5-yr) | $2,150 | $1,650 |
| Financing (5-yr) | $4,499 | $4,062 |
| Registration (5-yr) | $895 | $835 |
| Starting Price | $29,900 | $26,995 |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 180 hp |
| MPG (combined) | 27 mpg | 29 mpg |
| Cargo volume | 31.4 cu ft | 20 cu ft |
| Seating | 5 | 5 |
| Towing capacity | 2,000 lbs | — |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
Five measured pillars, weighted into one score.
Cost, Powertrain, Driver Assistance, Livability, and Safety — each scored against its class, then combined into a single MotiveGrid Score. Built by our engineering team and benchmarked against independent sources like NHTSA, IIHS, and CarEdge. How it’s calculated →
Mazda CX-50 scores higher overall.
Which vehicle is right for you
Subaru Crosstrek is the better pick for long-term ownership — about $3,713 cheaper over 5 years with stronger fundamentals on running cost.
Mazda CX-50 still wins if your priority is best for families.
Cost of Ownership
State
Frequently asked questions
Where these rank
- Mazda CX-50 ranks #1 of 3 in Best Midsize SUV and #1 of 10 in Best Family Vehicles.
- Subaru Crosstrek ranks #2 of 3 in Easiest Compact SUV to Park and #2 of 5 in Best Compact SUV for Tall Drivers.
What each one costs at the counter
Both five-year totals above count yearly registration. Neither counts what the state takes on the day you sign — sales tax and the title fee. Those are one-time, they are not the dealer’s to negotiate, and on a car at this price they run to four figures in most states. Work out yours:
- Tax, title and license in New Jerseywhat a car costs to own there
- Tax, title and license in Illinoiswhat a car costs to own there
- Tax, title and license in Pennsylvaniawhat a car costs to own there
- Tax, title and license in Ohiowhat a car costs to own there
- Tax, title and license in Georgiawhat a car costs to own there
Compare tax, title and license across all 22 states we cover →