Subaru Forester vs. The Competition

Compare the 2026 Subaru Forester vs. the Chevrolet Equinox and Mazda CX-50 in Salem, OR

The 2026 Subaru Forester continues to stand out in the compact SUV segment by blending everyday practicality with genuine all-weather and off-pavement capability. With standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, generous passenger space, versatile cargo capacity, and advanced safety technologies across the lineup, the Forester offers a balanced driving experience that's hard to beat.

Drivers from Independence to Wilsonville can explore the latest Subaru Forester models here at Capitol Subaru of Salem. To help you determine if the Forester is the right SUV for your lifestyle, here's a closer look at how it compares to two prominent rivals: the Chevrolet Equinox and Mazda CX-50.

Subaru Forester vs. Chevrolet Equinox

Capability

The Subaru Forester is built around a standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, giving drivers enhanced traction and stability in changing Pacific Northwest conditions around Keizer and Dallas, OR. The Chevrolet Equinox starts as a front-wheel drive platform, reserving all-wheel drive as an option. Subaru also includes X-MODE® traction management on every trim above the base configuration, further improving capability on loose or uneven surfaces.

Off-Road Readiness

While Chevrolet offers an ACTIV trim with rugged styling elements and all-terrain tires, the Forester Wilderness is engineered for more serious off-pavement exploration. The Wilderness trim adds increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, skid plates, upgraded suspension tuning, and a dual-function X-MODE® system for enhanced traction in mud, snow, and uneven terrain.

Performance

The Subaru Forester provides slightly stronger standard performance, producing 180 horsepower compared to the Equinox's 175-horsepower output. More importantly, the Forester pairs its powertrain with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for more confident acceleration and traction in a variety of driving conditions.

Passenger and Cargo Space

The Subaru Forester offers especially generous front-seat accommodations for the compact SUV segment. It provides more front headroom and legroom than the Equinox, helping taller drivers and passengers stay more comfortable during longer drives around Salem, OR. Rear-seat headroom and legroom are similar; however, the Forester also offers more shoulder and hip room.

Cargo versatility is another important Forester advantage. Base Forester trims provide up to 74.4 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity, while models equipped with the panoramic moonroof still offer up to 69.1 cubic feet. By comparison, the Chevrolet Equinox offers a maximum of 63.5 cubic feet of cargo space.

Subaru Forester vs. Mazda CX-50

Practicality vs. Styling

The Mazda CX-50 certainly offers rugged-inspired styling, but the Subaru Forester focuses more on real-world versatility. With standard all-wheel drive, generous ground clearance, and available X-MODE®, the Forester is especially well-suited for drivers who regularly encounter gravel roads, trailheads, and changing weather conditions around Monmouth.

Wilderness Capability

Mazda offers the CX-50 Meridian Edition with all-terrain tires and unique styling for shoppers interested in a more adventurous appearance. However, the Subaru Forester Wilderness goes much further with genuine off-road-focused engineering upgrades. In addition to all-terrain tires and rugged styling enhancements, the Forester Wilderness includes upgraded suspension tuning, skid plates, additional ground clearance, and dual-function X-MODE® for improved low-speed traction management.

Passenger Comfort and Interior Space

The Subaru Forester provides noticeably more front headroom and front legroom than the Mazda CX-50, helping create a more open cabin feel for taller occupants. Rear-seat dimensions are relatively similar between the two models, although the Forester offers additional shoulder and hip room for passengers.

The Forester also delivers substantially more cargo versatility. Depending on trim level, it offers between 69.1 and 74.4 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity, while the Mazda CX-50 is limited to a maximum of 56.3 cubic feet.

Infotainment and Visibility

The Subaru Forester prioritizes ease of use with a straightforward touchscreen infotainment system and excellent outward visibility. By comparison, the Mazda CX-50 relies heavily on a rotary controller interface that may feel less intuitive for some drivers. The Forester's larger windows and upright design also contribute to a more open driving experience and improved visibility.

Test-Drive a New Subaru Forester near Keizer, OR

Reach out to Capitol Subaru of Salem to learn more about the 2026 Subaru Forester, including available trim levels, financing opportunities, reservation availability, and current offers. If you'd like to experience the comfort, versatility, and capability of a new Subaru model firsthand, we welcome you to visit us in Salem, OR, for a test drive. We'll be happy to assist you.

*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 Fee. Not responsible for typographical errors.

*In transit means that vehicles have not yet arrived at your dealer. Images shown may not necessarily represent identical vehicles in transit to your dealership. See your dealer for actual price, payments, final accessories, expected delivery date and complete details.

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  1. Capitol Subaru of Salem

    920 Auto Group Ave NE
    Salem, OR 97301

    • Sales: 503-587-5500
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