2016 Mazda CX-5 vs Honda CR-V vs Subaru Forester AWD Snow Traction Mashup Review

[@philliptoone]

I'm suspicious of the second test. The slippage demonstrated by the Subaru could have been easily induced by driver input. All it would take is a more aggressive throttle input.

[@paulniezabytowski7170]

I completely agree! It looks like the driver mashed the throttle to cause the wheel spin and babied it in the Mazda.

[@cruisingprimate1072]

I was looking at the same thing, by the wheel spin it looked like stomping the accelerator while it was slow acceleration with the mazda. I drive trails with my Subaru and don't have a problem doing it, the skid plates I installed did save me from banging into rocks and getting stranded, but the AWD never let me down winter or summer.

[@jaikwillmon5664]

All of you Subaru fans do not understand the disadvantage of a Re-active AWD system under a CVT Transmission do you? The #1 AWD Manufacturer is Audi with the Quattro system, which is a PRO-ACTIVE AWD. Which Mazda has incorporated in their vehicles with a 6spd transmission that can transfer power more efficiently than other conventional or CVT transmission. Google SkyActiv Drive.

[@digitalstagwild9796]

That is exactly what it looks like too.

[@moimemesuis]

google idiot-active

[@janoskovacs11]

Wow! A Mazda won on a Mazda event! What a big surprise!

[@NanoQuatorze]

Hello and welcome in the realization of the integral drives ... as you actually notice when turning the steering wheel to the maximum of a subaru vehicle the VDC (dynamic vehicle control) temporarily deactivates the traction to the rear wheel, why to allow you to Turn easily and handle the vehicle more easily because nobody needs to set foot at the bottom when turning the wheel to the maximum ... mazda uses a technology to evolve less than subaru for more information will you inquire you will understand why subaru has The only permanent traction and thanks to its boxer engine no need to deactivate to save gasoline like the competion Less Reply

[@weirdbeard1980]

My thoughts exactly. I live in Tahoe and have lived in the mountains my entire life. Nothing matches subaru except a snow cat

[@LuisMartinez-tj1dz]

Subaru way better

[@skkayman]

Aha! That is why they had to rotate the steering wheel. That way the Mazda with use rear wheels automatically. (I am Mazda fan and this test is unfair)

[@darkpill]

skkayman That just proves it’s a smarter system.

[@d3jake]

So a "test" where cars are supplied by Mazda shows that the mazda is better. What a surprise!

[@308_Negra_Arroyo_Lane]

Mazda has been gunning very hard recently against Subaru, touting its new predictive i-active awd system. But it is a one trick pony. All of the demos show a flat surfaced (non-diagonal) slippery incline, starting from a stop, with the wheels turned (it must be turned), and with X-mode off in the Subaru. In that particular scenario the Mazdas have less front wheel spin than the Subaru. In all other cases it still fails against Subaru's full time system. It doesn't matter how smart your computers are, a full time awd system will always be better than a part time awd system.

[@yippie6862]

+Walter Black I have news for you, most of the Subaru's nowadays do have NOT full time AWD systems anymore. Most if not all are going to the front wheels until there is slippage.

[@niuhuskieguy]

+Yippie The automatic/CVT awd systems are currently running a 60/40 torque split under normal running conditions. Still full time awd.

[@autoxerwgn]

+niuhuskieguy Subaru might advertise that, but drive one in rain or snow and you'll find that it probably isn't true. Newer Subaru's with a CVT will spin the front wheels quite a bit before the rear wheels engage, feeling just like a CR-V. No doubt this was done to try and improve fuel economy. Older Subaru's, with a conventional automatic transmission, would engage almost immediately and would have very little slippage.

[@niuhuskieguy]

+autoxerwgn I drive a 2011 with a cvt everyday. I can for sure say the system is sending a considerable amount of power to the rear. Zero slip in the rain even on painted lines.

[@michiel75]

+Walter Black i noticed it too. They try to trick the smart Subaru system by creating a very typical, non-realistic situation to get the Subaru to spin his frontwheels longer than normal. The active torque distribution AWD of the subaru acts this way to give the Forester the most predictable handeling in the snow. A front wheels slip (understeer) is way simpler to handle than a rear wheel spin....so this clever system allows the frontwheels the slide to a certain degree when the wheels are turned enough. When you're really stuck in the snow, or mud the Forester in X-Mode is the best in his class. I drove the Mazda ones, and i hated the noisy engine. ~It sounds rough en raw after the smooth sounding Subaru boxer

[@Spring794]

That Subaru can't be a 2016. Still has the 2015 radio in it. All 2016 Foresters should come with the Starlink touchscreen radio.

[@donaldcheung1978]

Exactly!

[@prembajwa57]

+Toby Hargrave wtf

[@TheRealTobyHargrave]

+Ben Badger You might have to be more specific...

[@TheRealTobyHargrave]

...

[@TheRealTobyHargrave]

***** Thanks, that was more specific.

[@2005OEFArmy]

On real off-road, the Forester wipes the floor with the other two.

[@MrRillist]

2005OEFArmy I love all the Subaru fanboys getting upset on a completely non biased review bc they realize they bought a crap cut trans Subaru and wasted their money thinking they bought the "king of AWD" when really they bought a boring grocery grabbing basic AWD system lmao

[@craigt9415]

To each their own. I've owned 2 jeeps, an awd durango and a forester.. the forester is hands down the best in poor weather, slips and slides only a fraction of what my jeeps did. Regardless of what non-subaru owners think of the CVT I love my subaru. I did not waste money, but after my own personal experiences with other vehicles I would choose subaru over any other and feel I wasted money on all the other vehicles I've owned.

[@2005OEFArmy]

MrRillist The Forester has hands down the best CVT I've ever driven and it's bar none the best, most practical vehicle in its class. I'm not a Subaru fan boy, but after driving everything in the class when purchasing a car for my wife, it was an easy choice. I know I'll sell it before it hits 100k miles, the booster engines are just do not have the long term reliability of honda/Toyota(I am a Honda/Acura fanboy by the way), but in all other aspects, the Forester is great.

[@MrRillist]

Craig Tschirhart you've clearly never owned a Mazda.

[@MrRillist]

2005OEFArmy which brings me to my next topic, reliability. per million sold, the Mazda beats Toyota and Honda in reliability. they are actually built 95-98% in Japan and shipped over. everything done in one location. not chassis built in one place, body in another, shipped to another and assembled. everything done in one place and working in harmony. The brainwashed masses will never get it

[@saliston]

I have had a CX-9 for a couple of years and love it. Before i had never considered a Mazda but now i am a fan. They make surprisingly nice vehicles.

[@whipsplash6943]

A lot of Subarus on the road, and CR-Vs, they're great vehicles with long histories of good performance, I like both brands. I recently bought a 2016.5 AWD Mazda CX-5 and love that there aren't a million of them on the road and the design in and out is great, oh and the wheels are way cool compared to the other two. I'm glad to see it held its own against the forester and CR-V and performs better in some cases. The CX-5 is also rated high for safety. BTW, when looking for a new car our research included the Outback, Forester, multiple Jeeps, and CR-V, and we concluded the CX-5 was the best fit for us, and we do live at 6,500' elevation. I still drive one of the best performing suv's ever to be built, a 97 Toyota 4-runner with over 200k miles and runs like new so I know what good performance in winter conditions is all about.

[@HeinrichGossler]

Forester´s tire slip means you accelerated to quickly. it is a traction thing, not an AWD thing. As you said, all wheels got instant torque. use X-mode and things would have been much smoother. Also my XT Touring was $33,000 and it has 250hp =)

[@lazyrider6918]

There was no slippage in the Cr-v on the uphill test. while the subaru was slipping like crazy. I owned an Outback for 15 years and now have that same Cr-V and can tell you NOTHING beats a Subaru in the snow. The Cr-v is more reliable and works just fine here in NJ winters, but if I lived in Montana, I would own a Subaru again and just live with blown head gaskets. LOL

[@seccat]

It looks like the Honda @4:33 had less slippage then the Mazda @6:04. But instead of presenting them one after another, they add a segment between and only compare the Mazda against the Subaru.

[@digitalstagwild9796]

Looks like someone was more aggressive with the Subaru due to confidence and induced more slippage. Living in Alaska (Subaru country), I've seen several Subaru's walk away from the competition at stop lights and in mountain passes. Have also seen Subaru's walk right out of ditches where the others (in the same ditch from a storm) had to be pulled out.

[@Acyclistandhockeysnob]

Mazda must of paid you some good money. Apparently you didn't put the X-Mode on the Subaru when doing the uphill test or you purposely punched the gas. I own the Forester and haven't had that tire slip problem.

[@zixiangruan2428]

Jason Conley i

[@renielfrancisco1378]

Jason Conley

[@jaikwillmon5664]

ever think the test was to punch it in the first place? you are talking about a intuitive or Pro-active All Wheel Drive System, vs Re-active all wheel drive. Keep in mind that the Greatest all wheel drive system is Audi's Quattro system which is a Pro-Active All Wheel Drive. this isn't the only video that shows the Mazda winning.

[@Adnansahibji]

Jason Conley agreed

[@LMO169]

Quattro isn't proactive. Wheel slippage -> Torsen transfers power

[@armesisp3201]

I like these new Mazdas, they are stepping up the game and will force others to improve. ARE YOU LISTENING TOYOTA?!?!

[@stockjonebills]

+Armesis P Yeah Toyota is the reliability king but their designs and interiors can be some of the worst. Mazda in the meantime, has the design performance down and their reliability rankings are going up.

[@KTMoto_pher]

im not believing in your test drive in snow... il stick with my subaru on ice sub aru #1

[@yogaexe]

Is this paid endorsement?

[@dion24B]

100%

[@bbcoachSupermanBR]

on a steep hill when stopped I'd just switch to X-Mode and its a whole different ball game.

[@sapientbudgie5652]

You had a non-xmode Subaru Forester. The new i-Active system has a lot of sensors and works well when the tires are cocked to one direction as the sensors act fast. Mazda clearly wants to show this off. This shows Mazda is working hard to get up to Subaru level for awd, but I would still rather have hill decent and xmode

[@evgenboychuk8962]

)))

[@skkayman]

Yes, all Mazda did was to lock awd when steering wheel is in some angle. That is why they did the test on the hill this way and not in direct way.

[@ThisGuyRocksLikeCrazy]

Finally a decent video from tfl worth watching.

[@terrymaynard2970]

+MM 754 They were in the bag for Mazada from the get-go! Have lost all respect for them.

[@hwccheng]

Forester is like a race horse and driver has to be a bit careful on the throttle (its on the lighter side). Also price for that Forester should be around $28000 to #30000 since the infotainment system, eyesight and a few gadgets seems to be missing from the rig. And they also did not use the X-mode on the hill.

[@kurtbriere2096]

I am currently considering all three of these vehicles, but this video has put the cx5 ahead in my choices

[@peterlemma8909]

you can always count on TFL for all your mazda information! love this channel

[@lakeohau3286]

Sounds like a paid advertorial. We all know that Subaru's AWD system is better than the Mazda. Disappointing Nathan you took the money.

[@Attrebates]

Ring a bell... For the Subaru fans... Why are you all so fan about Subaru ? Their motors are made with piece of cake really. It's make me confuse... Obviously, CRV and Mazda won, recognize that at the end. And, for finish, CR-V was elected the most reliable SUV in the world.

[@valdius85]

Once someone start believing in Subaru it is hard to stop. They have great marketing - rugged, low centre of gravity, legendary boxer, Symmetrical AWD. All that makes little sense for the vehicle that gets up to 60 mph in around 9s. This is how I got excited. I even visited the Forester factory in Japan - granted it is 2h drive for me and it was free. Then I researched the vehicles and I am ex-subaristo not as I prefer to gamble with my money in other ways. I rented CX-3 for Norway in the winter. It was amazing car to drive. All that Dave Coleman said I experienced. I am considering Mazda now for my SUV. I would prefer bigger trunk but all the rest is great.

[@jamesbailey5337]

When you tested the Subaru on the hill, the front wheels were placed in the previously dug-out ruts and that’s why it slipped. Still love the cx-5

[@Toastmaster_5000]

Though I am a Subaru fan myself (and drive one with viscous coupling rather than the less-reliable electronic system), I smell a lot of butthurt here. Yes, this is obviously planned by Mazda to make themselves seem better. But as with any sponsored event, you have to take the results with a grain of salt. When I shopped for cars, I intentionally ignored videos sponsored by Subaru or any of their dealerships, because I didn't want to see what the company wants me to focus on. I wanted to see what they could do against anybody. And at least if you don't drive an automatic, Subaru has a great competitive system.

[@sssfusa]

Make sure to change your oil soon enough..don't listen to the dealer. HG

[@Toastmaster_5000]

***** I change my oil myself. And if you're the type who spreads FUD about oil burning, save it. Subaru has fixed the issue, at least for those who use the proper oil.

[@sssfusa]

Dude I worked for Subaru for 5 years.They said they fixed it 3 times! That's why they went back to the 2.0 instead of the 2.5 for excessive heat at the last go at it. Good luck with your car Peter.

[@darionross4286]

Subaru does the same thing so what are you talking about. Madza is not trying make themselves look good it just Subaru is not as good for snow like the Mazda CX-5 no big deal

[@ZuMi_rcf]

I own both Subaru ('15 WRX) and Mazda ('10 3) and I'm a fan of both these brands. My wife and I have always been considering either the Forester and CX-5 and would take any of the two - any day.

[@valentinchairez2470]

+Gian Angeles Get a CX-5!

[@dleetrini]

+Valentin Chairez I agree. I dumped the 2015 Forester due to potential oil consumption issues which they claimed has been fixed (no thank you), don't like the CVT transmission either. The CX-5 AWD works as mentioned in the video when needed and you feel the push from the rear wheels instantly. Got to test it in some deep snow in Canada recently.. Lots of fun. It has a great AWD system and probably best in class on road handling for CUVs. Ah, spring is around the corner!!

[@lukem9707]

+dleetrini The CVT in Forester is more responsive than the standard automatic in CX-5. I tested both. If you can get a CX-5 with manual and awd, then it ok.

[@osvaldovalencia6330]

+dleetrini if u don't like CVT's there's a 6 speed manual transmission plus X mode.

[@MikeyDAngelo]

+Gian Angeles Recently traded my legacy in for a CX-5 and have no regrets.

[@markbenosa2960]

Forester xt is still the best out of the rest, considering that they did not use the X-Mode, still the power and the unique symmetrical all wheel drive of the forester made the test smoothly.

[@davidaustin1488]

I’m a huge fan of Mazda. Convinced two of my best friends to buy brand new Mazda6’s and my sister to get a new Cx3. I owned an RX-8. But this test is flawed. It’s put on by Mazda. They are telling you how to test it. That’s not how bias free testing works. Subaru’s system is superior to practically every other system. Just watch videos of them plowing through two feet of snow or the roller test where only one tire has simulated grip. Nothing else can match it that I’m aware of. And Subaru doesn’t make these videos, people who have no affiliation with Subaru do them.

[@oliverroo59]

I think in the second test you punched the throttle in the Subaru whereas you gently applied throttle in the Mazda. Also, that's a 2015 Forester, not a 2016, and it's a Forester Touring, which carries an MSRP aroind $33.5k. In the real world, the Forester blows these other two out of the water.

[@andreasm2882]

Nice review and I am soooooo glad you guys had all the cars outfitted with the same tires.

[@Tully3674]

Mazda has great game. They just need to spend more/ better advertising campaign to get the word out.

[@Yogangster1995]

Exactly. They'd be doing much better if they just spent a bit more advertising to get people hearing and test driving their vehicles.

[@caidenn_mb]

Mazda Sucks. Also btw my friends Mazda crashed bc it slid threw and red light on black ice. same intersection same day same time a Subaru Forester stopped perfectly.

[@4orrcountry]

@@caidenn_mb There isn't a single AWD or 4WD system that can handle black ice - not one.

[@fartman10284]

Pilot now has a version of SH-AWD. CR-V's Real Time AWD isn't based on SH-AWD

[@contractki11er]

Why are you people surprised? He states this is a Mazda sponsored event, THERE ARE EVEN MAZDA FLAGS EVERYWHERE!!!! It would be rather foolish to setup an event where your car fails now wouldn't it?

[@AravindhanRajasekaran]

I didn't expect this from TFL. The motto of real world reviews is dead here. Looks so biased !!! For the uphill test. A Mazda person decides where to stop the car before you take off again. All three are good cars, in fact Mazda and Subaru has superior all wheel drive. But this test isn't a proof to say Mazda being a winner. Anyone who knows about cars well will completely disagree with the verdict of this video.

[@Andre-mi6fk]

The Honda actually had less 'slippage' than the Mazda. In real world driving, all the minor differences you're making a big deal out of won't even be an issue for most drivers

[@BCJDM]

Still prefer Subaru's awd system. Most cuvs have a fwd+ system.

[@lukem9707]

+BCJDM The new Forester has a FWD+ system. I own one. The rear kicks in as needed but it's not always-on like on the previous model. I got stuck several times when a front wheel lost grip and started spinning. The power was never sent to other wheels like Subaru advertises. Plus now after driving on snow, the CVT tranny is having some issues and may need to be replaced at 30k miles.

[@taurinwilson5772]

+Lu M That's technically not true, maybe there is something wrong with yours. Also the stock tires are terrible in the snow .

[@chronodriver]

+Taurin Wilson it is true and all the cars were on the same Blizzaks

[@taurinwilson5772]

+Paul Gerrard. Actually I was responding to Lu M's comment, not the video, in reference to tires and newer Foresters have a 60:40 torque split but can distribute more as needed, so technically Lu M's comment that "the rear kicks in as needed but is not always on" is not correct. Unless something is not working correctly. Either way you go, Mazda or Subaru, I think you'd be happy, I'm a Subaru fan so I would go Subaru.

[@chronodriver]

+Taurin Wilson I like them too but they have a strange issue where the de-couple the AWD when you turn the wheels so that's the point that the Mazda system doesn't have this issue because it detects the slip that much faster

[@busybeecompany2699]

I own the 2016 mazdaspeed, 2.5gt awd and it really is good...the road doesn't bother it at all, the tyres feel firm and in control and the seats grip just enough to make you feel in place...I test droves the rav, the crv, the forester and the tucson, the Mada was just a level above them.

[@busybeecompany2699]

mazda, not the mazdaspeed, thanks to auto correct for that little mistake.

[@83FB7]

+Jason Dent I like the way your autocorrect thinks haha

[@nigib2]

Well I have a subaru forester and I didn't have any problems getting out without shoveling of a 45cm snowstorm while all those others "suv" with "awd" were getting stock everywhere in town!

[@jaredco6930]

I drove the Forrester and felt like a complete dork. I drove the RAV4 and it felt boring. The CX5 was surprisingly fun and comfortable to drive. And I came from a manual transmission GTI.

[@vicwiseman6038]

1) Did you have X-Mode on in the Subaru? 2) Was the tire pressure the same? 3) They should have offered an increasing slope to see which car makes it up furthest.

[@ionutolteanu5541]

Excellent questions!

[@stephenrineer9103]

Is the torque prevented on the CX-5? That would also explain why the tires do not slip unless driver input. I wonder if the cx-5 had already been limited torque to the tires

[@paulcosta5571]

I've tried both the Mazda and the Subaru. I bought the Subaru for the better value and overall performance. My '16 Forester has the X-Mode and Subaru Eye Site systems. The Subaru in X-Mode will perform better than just about every other SUV in this class off road. I didn't see the X-Mode being used in this video and guessing they didn't have it on the vehicle they tested. The MX-5 is a nice SUV and drives great but the Subaru handles better and the tech inside has an edge on both the Mazda and the Honda.

[@DsdG88]

great review, I had owned a 2013 Honda CRV EX AWD after having it for 4 years and only having put 44,000km (i am from canada) the last service I had on it made me want to get rid of it had it in for its regular service they told me i needed new back breaks I know its a wearable part but had this for four years and this was the 4th time i got breaks on the back never did replace the front I had told the dealer they did not know why i had to replace it with low Km on it but i had enough and told then to go ahead and put the breaks on it and while they have the car they can appraise it and I will look at a new one I had looked at the new CRV and Civic went to toyota and took the corolla and the Rav 4 out for a test and then took the Mazda 3 and CX -5 out after being a loyal Honda customer I was treated like crap the would not throw anything in I have only owned Honda 4 Civic and 1 CRV I got treated and got a better deal elsewhere I ended up driving home a new Mazda CX-5 the next day I got the 2016.5 model year they gave it a good discount and gave me what i wanted for my trade I am really happy with it I never though I would ever own a mazda if you were to ask me what i would always own i would always say Honda or maybe a Toyota but I really love this CX-5

[@MrDeapGamingMedia]

I like the way the Subaru rotate around the corners. It's very useful on certain situation, because once the snow was very high & the car was mildly stuck. I did some kind of quick 90 degree, because I wanted the car to point at a specific direction. I think it can be useful to not get stuck in a new unwanted space.

[@PeterGalbraith]

I think anyone driving a CVT Forrester would have engaged X Mode and swiped the floor with the others. They must have worked hard to find a specific situation where the Mazda did better than the others.

[@jimmyesteban4912]

XT trim of Forester no need for an X mode I think =)

[@josedelapaz522]

😧😤😧😐e2ww0#19++2+€ !!ssawqww002w90+0ee,22,,39e9e93e9aeeaaqßwaßwßßs0w90p0rffww299*1kmderrrrŕttttrr3eeeeeeeseervbbnnjjjkiiii88iiiiiujiuiiiioioooooool$₩÷₩ 0#0sswws#×#😠😠cßf💗#👌👌👌××###÷😣😣fxdeqwwwai1lsl😤😤🙍🙍1w2010Qsß000z2

[@Matala67]

Peter Galbraith it looked like he accelerated more with the Subie on the uphill test as well making it appear that the Forrester slipped more than the Mazda. Totally biased.

[@tjs8560]

This Chanel is definitely Mazda fanboys. Bye subscription!

[@grahamrothphotography]

I have an 05 CRV, 230,000kms on it now, runs great still, can't tell how icy it is out either w winter tires

[@123SHINRYU]

260k miles on my 2000 cr v lol. she keeps on going man. cool vehicle!

[@grahamrothphotography]

+123SHINRYU i agree, gonna sell it once it gets to 400,000kms or rebuild the engine and transmission

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

We all know the subaru has the better awd system. The Mazda gets praised for not having wheel slip, and the Honda CRV gets dogged for not slipping the wheels and seeming to match the Mazda.

[@ktwingstrom]

Haha yeah. Subaru awd is king in a real world situation. Constantly engaged at a 50/50 split even without slippage, symmetrical awd with a low profile boxer engine paired with 4 wheel independent suspension. I'll take a subaru since it's the same price for a better winter car.

[@21jg130]

Yep agree, got a 2009 Forester 2.0D XC and love it , if I trade up or change cars in the future it'll definitely be another Subaru Forester

[@thatfrenchcanadian5779]

Kevin Twingstrom 60/40.....it's automatic. 50/50 is for manual.

[@ktwingstrom]

thatfrenchcanadian true.

[@darionross4286]

Kevin Twingstrom u like a cheap car company they have shitty interiors if that's what u like? ur a shitty guy to u think Subaru is the Best well its not they are a cheap car company face it Subaru suck ass in the snow and in the real world so shut the fuck Subaru's are poor people thats why u have one u cheap shitty guy!!😬

[@jaikwillmon5664]

Exactly, that CVT is a piece of shit.

[@LucasCrossleyGuitar]

Meh.....having driven both the CRV and the Subaru I can tell you the Subaru has a lot of punch when you touch the throttle. Much more so than the 2016 CRV which I own. When I first drove the Forester I was feeling it lurch when starting out because there is more response in the throttle. I also drove the lower end unit without the turbo. I think this video is not at all an indication of which system is better. Plus the Mazda was a few thousand dollars more.

[@williamneumann7578]

The Mazda's AWD certainly seems impressive. But I have to wonder why Mazda only provided the Forester and CR-V for comparison. The RAV4 or the Cherokee may have done quite well.

[@frfigueroa2002]

Is it just me, or did the CRV not have any wheel spin going up hil from a stop??? FYI me and my wife own subarus, I honestly am surprised the CRV did not have any wheel spin. Good job Honda. Although Subaru is known for being the best AWD vehicles out there, its been quite a long time and I do believe many car companies are at par with Subaru now. Liking Subaru is now just a culture thing than any real engineering supremacy. But....based on the amount of wheel spin the Forester exhibited, I think he really gunned the accelerator far more than the others. I guess that's the Subaru fan in me talking huh?

[@smugglerscoveconsulting845]

WHAT a surprise! Mazda paid for this test and it came out on top!

[@mattyee9369]

The reason the Subaru had more wheel spin is because it got power right away to the wheels and a good amount. It didn’t hesitate to get power. It’s not front wheel based system like the others.

[@ontarioman6301]

Mazda makes the best vehicles if you like driving. The fact that is amazing in snow is icing on the cake

[@RazgrizNinjaEX8]

The detection system doesn't matter at all when you have what my Subaru has. 90/10 or 50/50 in low selected gears. That's an always on.

[@itsesmir]

+Randall Peralta Plus half of inch more of ground clearance makes a huge difference if you live where it snows a lot.

[@RazgrizNinjaEX8]

+CBodhi The 2004 Outback H6 with the 4eat transmission.

[@RazgrizNinjaEX8]

+Life of Merc Definitely true, although my buddy who has a nearly identical car (H4/manual instead) demonstrates that, even if the outback is dropped 3", it handles snow just fine. Even if it has to plow light stuff.

[@RazgrizNinjaEX8]

+CBodhi Oh, I can tell. I don't have any source information right this moment, but I'll try to find some. From what I've heard, the (Shiftronic?) automatic on the VDC 3rd Gen Legacy Outback has the 60/40 and the 4eat non-VDC models ran 90/10.

[@RazgrizNinjaEX8]

+CBodhi This is just a forum post, but here are people discussing the 90/10 and 50/50 splits with the 4EAT transmission specifically. Most sources that I found listing all other transmissions seemed to gloss over the 4EAT.

[@michaelmayo7987]

Granted, the CX-5 is likely very capable in the snow, but it's hard to believe that a vehicle that's normally front-wheel drive with an all-wheel drive function that cuts out around 25 mph is more capable in the snow than the Subie. If it was, there should be some explanation why the all-wheel drive CX-5 isn't generally considered offroad capable. At any rate, when I start from a standing stop on a snowy road pointed up an incline, my '10 Subie will bolt forward without hesitating. Could there be some difference between the way the CVT and the older 4-speed automatic ride in snow? That I don't know.

[@BlakeParker15]

I have a 2016 Mazda CX-5 and it preforms VERY well in snow. It does have a real AWD system, but when the extra traction isn't needed, it dis-engages to get better fuel economy. It's basically 4WD. I live in PA and sometimes our winters are bad, it's never failed me!! It's definitely off-road capable!

[@TVfanfanatic]

That's a really good comparison, but I'll still take the Forester equipped with the 2.0 L Turbo, over the other two.

[@Jason99942]

Of course, who wouldn't? Yet, not everyone can either afford the xt, or warrant the added insurance expense.

[@classix848]

Dont forget the premium fuel needed for the XT as well.

[@nemavezee]

sorry, i just don't see cr-v slipping on that hill at all. looks more controlled than the other two.

[@chazlyle41]

Ouch. First time I've found you guys to be blatantly absurdly biased toward whoever gave you the car. Which is sad. I used to enjoy all your videos. Now I'll just be wondering how ridiculously your hiding things if ever I watch again. Lame.

[@jaikwillmon5664]

So you are saying, for the first time they didnt side with subaru... which shows that they are a unbiased company, and you are mad and say they are ridiculous... Pretty Childish.

[@chazlyle41]

If you do a quick bit of research you'll see the advert ploy here. With a bit more you can see the differences in their AWD systems for yourself and how they engage/work. I certainly wouldn't call it childish to see an obviously biased video from people I usually trust to be unbiased and express my concern to them so they can get customer feedback, and take it or leave it :) If you look at video after video and article after article you'll see pretty quickly that the whole, stop at the top of the hill and turn the tires to full lock before you go (which isn't exactly an every day usage vs. just driving straight up after stopping) is the one way in which their system has a strong point. If you compare them in any other point, many of which are a better test, the results are unanimous. Cheers!

[@jaikwillmon5664]

Ive done all of the research, for example Subaru's "symetrical AWD ONLY means that if you draw a line down the middle of their awd system it is a mirror image. NOTHING MORE. What you see here in this video is a CVT not TRANSferring (Transmission) the power from the engine to the wheels as its a downfall of the CVT transmission on any brand. It is childish to not get your way, then say you will never watch their videos simply because one manufacturer worked harder than the other and out performed the other. i.e. "Greenbay didnt make it to the playoffs so Ill never watch the NFL again" Even in the other videos the Mazda's 6 Speed Transmission transfers power more efficiently than the Subarus CVT transmission. CVTs are meant for fuel efficiency and not for Performance, Im sorry to be the one to update you, however things change over time. Yes, the results are Unanimous in the Mazda's favor. If you are not up to date with modern technology you will not understand. Please look up "Pro-active (intuitive) AWD vs RE-Active (Slippage) AWD systems.

[@moimemesuis]

You're so wrong Jaik. The way a transmission change speeds have nothing to do with the way the torque is send to rear or front axles. you need to redefine the term "modern technology" for your own sake.

[@chazlyle41]

I didn't say I won't watch their videos haha simply that I will be more skeptical now. I don't really watch football. I drive a manual. Thanks for calling! :) P. S. At what speed does Mazda's AWD turn back off? P.P.S. I love Mazdas and think they ahead of Subaru in 80% of ways. I also think their new AWD system is the best out of Subaru competitors yet (even though it is weighted at 98/2% front to rear, which is not ideal). All I was saying was that this test, turned to full lock at the top of the hill, is very biased. The Mazdas are made to do well at the full lock turn test. But if you do a full battery of tests guess what, the Subaru still comes out on top.

[@bigt9063]

Wonder why these guys have Mazda jackets and Mazda tags hanging off the lanyards. Could there be any bias going on? I'm curious.

[@mannyboy669]

Why do they have to turn the wheels with Mazda to excel? What about going straight uphill?

[@biker1581]

Mazdas are good in looks and driving experience and they do decent offloading, I've owned a CX9 and have been a fan of Mazdas ever since. Subarus are good in other aspects and are known to be more reliable. I do not understand why TFLC would do such a biased video, he tried to mask it but you can see he is inevitably leaning towards the sponsoring brand.

[@valdius85]

Subaru and reliability doesn`t go together for people with YT and Google research engine. ;)

[@edgrigsby8610]

Thanks for this video. I'm thinking about buying a used CX5. I've been in a 2011 Escape Ltd for years. So my next vehicle has some big shoes to fill.

[@schmoab]

I would get the Mazda if I wasn't concerned with off-road performance (go Jeep.). Been a Mazda owner for 15 years and they always are a delight to drive.

[@ConnecticutDashcam]

It is funny how people are calling this biased. All 3 cars are running the same tires, and are run through the same exact course. The Mazda clearly excelled. And to anyone saying "They didn't turn on X mode in the Subaru" that just proves it inferior. The Mazda doesn't need an X mode; their AWD system works great all of the time.

[@ionutolteanu5541]

How about the tire pressure? Did they proved that all 3 are within the manufacturer's indication? Because a higher pressure on the tires on one of them could lead to less traction?! I would love to see the same test, the same cars, buy paid/organized by ...Subaru I'm a fan of both, had in the past Legacy and Tribeca (was a tank in the snow)...How about a slalom ? Would they perform the same?

[@subazealand9158]

This test is so bad, as in 4:39 the guy can't believe the CR-V did as well as Mazda! LOL

[@Za-watcher]

thats true

[@EsenbekAliev_]

because Mazda CX5 is superior compared to CRV in terms of handling

[@stephonhines3013]

Baltazar Campos Nieto true lol

[@mannyboy669]

Lol

[@brunowskijr]

this was at the crested butte airstrip right? tjose apartments i used to live in.

[@chronodriver]

+Raymond Long not at the airstrip but close to it

[@P4TR1C3508]

Subaru has finally accepted to give +TFLcar another shot at their car after the last incident 😃

[@insanegnyc]

Was xmode engaged when you started up that slope in the subaru?

[@skkayman]

Do uphill stop/start with Mazda with wheels straight! This test just shows the feature of Mazdas - with steering wheel rotated, it will use rear wheels automatically.

[@robnowe5464]

How much is attributable to the tire... were all the tires the same?

[@grey-adventures]

Great comparison of traction control and computers. For me there is only one option where all wheels are always engaged and only one option that still offers a manual transmission.

[@rterry2752]

Was traction control off and xmode off ? Was xmode on and traction control off ? etc etc .

[@justforki]

2:15 that's not 2016 Forester. It's 2015 or 2014 probably.... I notice an old interior in Forester...

[@superdan5617]

Is this a brand new awd system on the CX5, or is it using the same system since 2013?

[@subazealand9158]

+Super Dan Brand new system.

[@superdan5617]

+Baltazar Campos Nieto ok, thanks.

[@subazealand9158]

Yeah, no worries. This one was introduced on the facelift models Cx-5 new Cx-3 (last year I guess).

[@rorschach1996]

+Super Dan It's not new, it's the same since 2013. They just haven't marketed it back then.

[@subazealand9158]

Nope, search on Google, and you will find it. Has more sensors, to react more faster and many other new things. Before was called ATS (Active Torque Split) and now is called i-Active AWD, this one is 20% lighter than previous system. This new system takes more information from more sensors as wiper function, outside temperature, steering angle, etc etc to anticipate faster and better the power sent to the wheels.

[@druvmarwah]

was the Subaru's traction control shut off for this test?

[@smajxel]

And try to focus where was the Subaru position and Mazda or CR-V. You can see it on some snow or ice rock which you can see on the hill next to right back wheel. Subaru is maybe 1meter more on the hill down.

[@Adnansahibji]

Richard Schneider lol true

[@dmitryg.7802]

Sorry but uphill test is manipulation - all 3 SUV has different conditions. The worst condition was for subaru, but for seen it you should be very attentive. IMHO

[@83FB7]

+Dmitry Goroshenko I'd love to hear how they are different conditions. I guarantee you wouldn't say that if this test was performed by Subaru with the same results.

[@dmitryg.7802]

+83FB7 First of all Subaru begins to move out of the pit as opposed to others. Also, the driver pushed the pedal is clearly more than was necessary. If he want do not worry about it - he must turn on X-Mode. But this test was organized by Mazda team, so its promotion CX-5. According to all this points - uphill test is the manipulation.

[@83FB7]

+Dmitry Goroshenko I still see no proof. Just because a manufacturer puts on an event, doesn't automatically mean it's biased. Mazda wanted to show its system off in as fair of a comparison as they could provide. Can't please everyone

[@dmitryg.7802]

+83FB7 Ok,. it's your opinion. People will select who is more objective and attentive you or me.

[@83FB7]

+Dmitry Goroshenko Just the same as it is your opinion that this is manipulated and not correct.

[@anaizpaulanar296]

This felt like a commercial; but I guess you'll sacrifice integrity for bread.

[@phudang4115]

Does anyone know how winter tires handle black ice? Bc i went to Oregon with all season tires and crashed bc of slippery, I had to drive slow the whole time in the snow bc the car kept sliding while all other cars just go at normal speed so I blamed it on the tires...any thoughts?

[@tungol00]

At the end of the day I never depend on my awd it's all about tires, breaking at the right time and driving techniques, in the winter.

[@matt1576]

All of these vehicles are great in their own respect. However, I have personally driven each of these vehicles in the snow. Different years of the vehicles an 05 forester, a 2011 honda cr-v, and 2014 Mazda CX-5. They all perform well in the snow, but my 05 forester was more manageable and comfortable than the other two in the snow and other rough road conditions. With that being said the two other vehicles that I drove were owned by other individuals that drove my old vehicle in rough conditions. They too loved the Forester over their cars. The fact is that Subaru, makes very reliable and capable cars, and if that Subaru had x-mode on it would have easily outperformed the two newer cars of today. This is a false advertisement.

[@pluckie25]

Mazdas are cool cars and Honda and Subaru are good cars too because they don't have to crash okay

[@ArcticHawk2003]

The Mazda system works really well when the wheel is turned when climbing. There was a video made in French by Mazda last winter where the same "turn the wheel" strategy was used. In the previous French video & this one, neither had the Mazda or its competitors with the wheels pointed straight, as in going up a hill, I will guess that the results would not be the same.

[@trevorbrown7224]

I'll ask.. since Subaru has released X-Mode, utilizing all the features mentioned about the Mazda, for the Forester.. and at $30k+, I'm sure it has the feature (it comes stock, if I recall). Did you guys use it on the uphill? Because that is what the X-Mode is for.

[@fakeappellation7343]

Subaru, yay! I bought a 2013 impreza just before christmas. It has the 2.0 CVT and so far I'm happy. The only complaint I have is when you're reving the engine for too long at more than 2500 rpm, let's say for climbing series of hills, it smells rubber in the car. The center armrest console isn't long enough, the heated seats buttons are oddly placed, setting bluetooth is kind of hard especially when the previous owner's phone is already paired. Next car I buy will have a greater ground clearance, that's for sure.

[@bigfatengineer]

+Fake appellation Your "only complaint" kinda turned into a list. :)

[@fakeappellation7343]

The ''list'' as you call it are just things that bother me since nothing is perfect in this world. Compared to my old 2002 accord, the list is very short.

[@gsubaru2540]

+Fake appellation I own a 2011 Legacy fully equipped. Subaru lend me a new Impreza for the weekend and there's a HUGE quality difference. Comfort, motor (was doing the same, maybe a litlle bit higher gas milage by 5%) and the ride quality both on snow and asphalt the Legacy handle better.

[@FX3-UK]

If the Mazda guys optimize the ecu to perfection, of course it shines vs the other two. I doubt the CX-5 came straight from the factory. Nice thing that they did match the tires. However, Subaru and Honda suggest certain types or tires because they work best. I would have liked to see the test with the stock tires as well.

[@bbcoachSupermanBR]

The only issue with my Outback is the stock tires...the back end swings out before correcting itself...predictable but I'd rather have it smoothly go through the turn instead of drifting but whenever I look at the tires after parking there's all ice/snow packed in the tread so no surprise

[@gsubaru2540]

+bbcoachSuperman - (Brian Rokosz) I put on brand new Michelin X-Ice i3 on the my Legacy. It's amazing.

[@bbcoachSupermanBR]

Yeah I know it's gotta be the tires. Luckily it was still fine all winter on the hills but next year I'm probably going to swap them

[@gsubaru2540]

bbcoachSuperman - If you don't already know. Keep a light foot on the gas going in to turns. The AWD system only works at best when pressing the throltle. Watch your speed! :) That's how I drive all the time and I never slip. Have fun! Winter is not over.

[@username6333]

Did they all have similar tires ie all had all-weather tires or snow tires?

[@V10PDTDI]

The answer is in the video they are all Bridgestone blizzaks .

[@username6333]

+V10PDTDI oh okay, thanks I skipped around and didn't watch the whole thing.

[@hugoramirez8850]

After watching this video am doubting, should I buy a 2014 legacy or 2014 cx5 they are around the same price.

[@froshmasta]

I was just re-watching this video when it came up in some suggested videos and I noticed that when the *cough* Mazda person stops Nathan for the hillstart in the Subaru he stops him with the tires in the bottom of some deep holes that have been dug or spun out of the hill. Next time around in the Mazda Nathan gets stopped above those holes in the hill for his start. Very interesting. I'm a Subaru fan in general but it didn't make sense to see two AWD cars on the same tires behaving so differently. I guess I can't blame Mazda for helping their own cars out like that at their own event to snowjob the journalists like this.

[@grahamrothphotography]

the CRV always starts off locked in 4x4 then depending on the conditions it unlocks once your get going, or stays in 4x4 till you get to your cruising speed

[@moimemesuis]

on the hill climb test, the Mazda departures from a nearly flat position. It is located higher than the others on the hill top. One more thing: the throttle, I'm sure, in the Forester, the driver push the gas pedal suddenly and deeper than with the others, provoking the slippage of the front wheels. Sorry TFL, but you kind a loose my thrust here.

[@chili_d]

I like how you brought the tires into the equation later the video

[@aqajan8378]

Did you had handbrake on in Subaru moving up hill.

[@m...1045]

No way the CX-5 is a better vehicle than the Subaru... Shame on you Nathan.

[@mextijuas5]

I like mazda and this cx5 is this year's shopping list. good thing I live in SoCal, it never snows! (just at very high mt)

[@busybeecompany2699]

I recommend it, and if I recommend it then it must be good, lol.

[@ridaalosman8030]

This is not an objective review since it is paid for by Mazda. It makes me wonder if all TFL car reviews are biased like this one!

[@Adnansahibji]

Rida Al Osman agreed, biased review paid by Mazda

[@jaikwillmon5664]

Adnan, please Cite your sources on this review being "paid" by Mazda. Or will you instead try to argue that a CVT with a Reactive AWD system could beat a 6spd Pro-Active All Wheel Drive.

[@Mirro.555]

these days paper money takes over, so sadly...

[@alozano793]

Yeah the subarus gave the x mode and later dual x mode to counter the wheel spin. Although you do have to initiate it when you get in and it's only good up to 20 MPH. I like having some wheel spin personally. But I play in the snow and ice admittedly.

[@durangoclaw]

That's a 2015 Forester, doesn't have the 2016 dash, and I can count on the fact that X-Mode was not engaged, he also said that Mazda brought them out there to compare, so they are also paid to say that lol.

[@danielmelendez9943]

who ever is in charge of doing the video edit in between test drives, please get your stuff straight. First test drive is the CRV, at 2:236 seconds they are on the test drive of the subaru. The driver proceeds to compare the Mazda CX5 to the subaru??? why wouldnt he be talking about the CRV since he just finished test driving it? It is great that all of these cars were utilizing the same type of snow tire (blizzacs) IMO, every one of these cars has positives and cons, does not seems like they follow sequence for each, the comparison was all over the place not well thought out. IMO they accomplished nothing..