The winner is the 2019 Subaru Forester.
Both crossovers proved themselves to be highly capable and well executed.
Both offer a comfortable ride and well-designed interior.
Finally, both the Mazda and the Subaru feel underpowered and could do with the extra torque on offer with the addition of a turbocharger.
The Mazda CX-5's sleek looks and beautifully finished interior certainly impressed. In addition, the Mazda is hands down the best driving compact crossover on the market.
At the same time, the 2019 Forester really wowed us with its solid feel, an impressive suite of standard drivers assistance tech, standard all-wheel-drive, comfortable cabin, and a superior infotainment system.
Really, it was the superior infotainment system and standard safety tech that put the Forester over the top.
So, a big and well-deserved congratulations to the 2019 Subaru Forester.
But with the updated 2019 Mazda CX-5 on the way, this duo is ripe for a rematch.