If winter weather is part of your normal routine, the Forester has a clear advantage in its approach to traction. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard across the Forester lineup, giving you all-weather capability without requiring an upgrade to an AWD configuration. Available X-MODE® and dual-function X-MODE® add enhanced traction for more challenging conditions.

The Mazda CX-5 also comes with standard i-Activ AWD®, which is designed to send power to the appropriate wheels as road conditions change. Mazda also offers Mi-Drive, with Normal, Sport, and Off-road modes that let you adjust the vehicle's response to different situations.

That can matter around Massachusetts. Your weekday might take you through Boston traffic, while a snowy morning in Norwood or a weekend drive outside Brockton can call for a little more confidence from your SUV.

The Forester is particularly strong when flexibility is high on your list. The Subaru Forester lists up to 110.8 cubic feet of passenger space and up to 74.4 cubic feet of total cargo space, giving you room for passengers, groceries, luggage, and outdoor equipment.

The redesigned Mazda CX-5 also focuses on making more room for everyday life. Mazda says the 2026 model has expanded rear seating and expanded cargo space, with the redesigned cabin created to provide more room without sacrificing passenger comfort.

That makes both SUVs practical for real-life routines. Think grocery runs in Quincy, loading sports equipment before a weekend activity, or packing luggage for a road trip.

The Mazda CX-5 introduces a more connected cabin with an available 15.6-inch center touchscreen, the largest display ever offered on a Mazda vehicle. Google built-in is also available, bringing Google Assistant, Google Maps, and access to Google Play apps into the vehicle.

The Forester focuses heavily on driver confidence. EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology is standard, while available features include Automatic Emergency Steering and a 360-degree Surround-View Monitor. Subaru also lists a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from NHTSA for the 2026 Forester.

Both SUVs also bring technology that can make everyday driving easier, but they approach it differently: Mazda emphasizes a redesigned, technology-rich cabin, while Subaru places strong emphasis on all-weather capability and driver assistance.

Your daily routine can look very different from one day to the next. You might be navigating Boston traffic on Monday, picking up groceries in Quincy after work, and heading toward Norwood for a family activity later in the week. On the weekend, you may want to load up your gear and get out of town.

The Subaru Forester fits that kind of variety particularly well. Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive gives you added confidence when winter weather moves through the area, while its generous cargo capacity makes room for groceries, sports equipment, luggage, or outdoor gear. Available X-MODE® can also help when roads get snow-covered or conditions become more challenging.

The Mazda CX-5 takes a similarly versatile approach with standard i-Activ AWD® and Mi-Drive drive modes. Its redesigned cabin, expanded rear seating, and available 15.6-inch touchscreen make it appealing if you spend a lot of time commuting, carrying passengers, or taking longer drives across Massachusetts.

If your priorities lean toward all-weather capability and cargo flexibility, the Forester deserves a close look. If you prefer a redesigned interior with expanded space and available technology, the CX-5 may be the better match for your routine.