2023 Subaru Forester vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered Canadians six models, with prices ranging from $47,799 to $66,759, excluding a $2,095 destination charge. The lineup expanded with the rugged Timberline trim and introduced the sporty ST-Line, enhancing the XLT version's appeal. The U.S.-spec King Ranch model, not available in Canada, was tested, with the closest Canadian equivalent being the Platinum trim. The Explorer's rear-drive platform allowed for a long, tall hood and athletic appearance, with blacked-out roof pillars creating a "floating roof" effect. Higher trims featured a mix of quality materials, though some base trim elements were noticeable.

The 2023 Subaru Forester maintained its familiar design, resembling previous models, especially in Cascade Green Silica paint. It came in Base, Touring, Sport, Wilderness, Limited, and Premier trims, priced from $30,995 to $41,595, excluding a $1,975 destination charge. The Premier trim, tested without options, cost $44,087, including destination. The Forester's design was functional, with flared fenders and pincer-shaped lighting. The Premier trim stood out with 18-inch alloy wheels and satin chrome trim. Inside, it featured brown leather, metallic accents, and a mix of traditional buttons and knobs, offering practicality and ease of use.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains. The XLT, ST-Line, and Timberline trims featured a 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic and standard 4WD in Canada. It had a towing capacity of 2,400 kg and consumed 10.3 to 11.8 L/100 km. The Limited trim offered a hybrid drivetrain with a 3.3-litre V6, producing 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque, towing up to 2,268 kg, and achieving 9.6 L/100 km. The ST and Platinum trims had a twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 with 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, towing 2,540 kg and consuming 11.8 L/100 km. The Explorer excelled in off-road conditions and provided a robust driving experience.

The 2023 Subaru Forester featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, powering all four wheels through a CVT. The CVT mimicked a traditional automatic with eight programmed ratios, and the SI-Drive system offered a Sport mode. The Forester included an X-Mode off-road system with hill descent control, and the Wilderness trim added all-terrain tires. The Premier trim handled challenging weather conditions with ease, offering confidence in adverse conditions. The Forester's driving dynamics were excellent, with responsive steering and brakes, though the engine was merely adequate. It returned 9.1 L/100 km, short of the official 8.2 L/100 km rating.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided comfort for families of four, with an optional second-row bench seat for five. The third-row seat was suitable only for children due to the rear-drive platform and low roofline. Higher trims offered features like triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated seats, and a power liftgate. Cargo space was 528 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,132 litres with seats folded. However, interior storage was limited, lacking practical pockets and shelves.

The 2023 Subaru Forester prioritized function over form, offering features like a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a windshield wiper de-icer. Higher trims included leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control. The Forester excelled in visibility and ease of entry, though the sunroof's tint was insufficient, causing solar heating. Interior storage was plentiful, with well-sealed doors and a power liftgate revealing 762 litres of cargo space, expanding to 1,957 litres with seats folded.

The 2022 Ford Explorer featured two Sync 3 infotainment systems: an 8-inch touchscreen and a 10.1-inch portrait-style display. The system included FordPass Connect, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bang and Olufsen sound system. However, the voice recognition system was lacking, and an upgrade to Sync 4 was needed. Additional tech included a 12.3-inch digital display and Active Park Assist 2.0.

The 2023 Subaru Forester offered a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Starlink services. An 8-inch display with navigation and a Harman Kardon audio system was available. The Forester's interface was user-friendly, with separate climate controls and easy-to-use knobs. However, the voice-recognition system was ineffective, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto preferable.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, with standard Ford Co-Pilot360 features like forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer's safety systems operated smoothly, though steering wheel sensitivity was an issue.

The 2023 Subaru Forester introduced next-generation EyeSight technology with improved cameras and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added Automatic Emergency Steering and Rear Automatic Braking, though the latter was overly sensitive. The Forester earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, with some ratings lower than previous years. The NHTSA awarded it five-star ratings, with a four-star rollover rating.