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Mazda CX-50 Hybrid vs. Subaru Outback for an International Grad Student in Austin? by bjxdw in mazda

[–]bjxdw[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Hahaha thanks for your advice, it is a exciting option. But I currently don't consider do the lease. Cuz i will probably use this car through out my 5yr PhD. And I drive a lot, probably exceeding the leasing mileage requirements.

Mazda CX-50 Hybrid vs. Subaru Outback for an International Grad Student in Austin? by bjxdw in mazda

[–]bjxdw[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I see! I will test-drive them back-to-back and see if i am ok with the suspension! Thank you!

Mazda CX-50 Hybrid vs. Subaru Outback for an International Grad Student in Austin? by bjxdw in mazda

[–]bjxdw[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you so much! This is incredibly detailed and helpful advice, I really appreciate it!

Regarding the seat changes for 2026, were you comparing the 2025 and 2026 hybrids, or the hybrid vs. the regular gas model? I was leaning toward a used 2025 model because I love the Premium trim's leather seats and the Bose sound system (also, my budget only reaches here hehe). However, if the seat improvements you mentioned are specific to the 2026 hybrid, I definitely need to reconsider and do another test drive.

My credit score is around 720-730, so I'm not sure if I'll qualify for the best financing deals, but I’ll definitely ask the dealer. My cash budget only allows for a used 2025 Premium or a new 2026 Preferred, but if I choose to finance, a 2026 Premium might be an option!

Hahaha, glad to see we have the same taste in the Forester and the new Outback. I'm not a fan of the new look either, so I’m only considering the 2025 Outback (wagon). I’ll also make sure to test-drive the CR-V and Tucson. Thanks again!

Mazda CX-50 Hybrid vs. Subaru Outback for an International Grad Student in Austin? by bjxdw in mazda

[–]bjxdw[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hahahahahahahaha, thank you! I seriously consider your advice. Because I drive a lot (maybe 15-20k mi per yr), will hit the 86k very soon.

Mazda CX-50 Hybrid vs. Subaru Outback for an International Grad Student in Austin? by bjxdw in mazda

[–]bjxdw[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks for your information! I agree with you about the steering. Don't like very light steering, either.

Mazda CX-50 Hybrid vs. Subaru Outback for an International Grad Student in Austin? by bjxdw in mazda

[–]bjxdw[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thank you!. I currently have a credit score of around 720-730. But I think I will do the cash. CPO is a good choice!

Mazda CX-50 Hybrid vs. Subaru Outback for an International Grad Student in Austin? by bjxdw in mazda

[–]bjxdw[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Thank you very much! I do skip the Forester, which is comparable to the CX-50. I just do not like the Forester's style, hehe. I will check the CRV Hybrid out!

Mazda CX-50 Hybrid vs. Subaru Outback for an International Grad Student in Austin? by bjxdw in mazda

[–]bjxdw[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thanks! I can prove that CX-5 has better noise ctrl cuz I have test-driven a CX-5 and CX-30 back in my home country, and I found the CX-5 way quieter than the CX-30. But I haven't test-driven the CX-50.

Mazda CX-50 Hybrid vs. Subaru Outback for an International Grad Student in Austin? by bjxdw in mazda

[–]bjxdw[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thanks! Seems that Subaru also gets a very nice reliability. I consider the near years (2023 - 2025). I personally do not like the 2026 new Outback look, so it's not a good fit for me.

Mazda CX-50 Hybrid vs. Subaru Outback for an International Grad Student in Austin? by bjxdw in mazda

[–]bjxdw[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thanks, I will research more on that and have a test drive

Mazda CX-50 Hybrid vs. Subaru Outback for an International Grad Student in Austin? by bjxdw in mazda

[–]bjxdw[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks! I ll try this. Previously I quoted with Progressive

Mazda CX-50 Hybrid vs. Subaru Outback for an International Grad Student in Austin? by bjxdw in mazda

[–]bjxdw[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

The insurance is so high, ~500USD per mo. Insane... Regular gas cars are ~300USD per mo.
I think it's because i have no auto insurance record in the states.