2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid vs 2026 INFINITI QX80

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid presented a fresh design for its sixth-generation, adopting a more conventional and cohesive look compared to its predecessor. This redesign resulted in a blockier shape, reminiscent of a compact Ford Explorer, which some might argue diluted its distinctiveness. Despite this, the Forester maintained a rugged appearance with black plastic elements hinting at its off-road capabilities. Inside, the Forester Hybrid featured a modernized cabin with a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a digital instrument panel exclusive to the hybrid model. While hard plastics were prevalent, soft-touch materials were strategically placed for comfort, and the front seats offered excellent support and ventilation.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80, with its bold and macho design, stood tall with high shoulder lines and a simple two-box profile. Its exterior was marked by a striking black grille inspired by a bamboo forest, LED headlights, and a taillight light bar. The QX80 Sport trim added a wider mesh grille and dark matte chrome accents. Inside, the QX80 exuded luxury with real leather, aluminum, and open-pore wood trim. The technology was seamlessly integrated with four screens, including one for rear passengers, and the Sport models featured a unique Dusk Blue interior theme. The cabin was spacious and comfortable, with high-quality materials enhancing the overall experience.

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-litre flat four-cylinder engine paired with a parallel hybrid system, producing a combined 194 horsepower. This setup included two motor/generators and a 1.1-kWh lithium-ion battery, offering standard all-wheel drive. While acceleration was adequate, the hybrid transmission sometimes made it feel slower than it was. The Forester Hybrid excelled off-road with its X-Mode drive programming and hill descent control, providing a balanced performance both on and off the pavement.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 transitioned to a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 450 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, the QX80 offered full-time four-wheel drive in Canada. Despite losing some off-road capabilities, the QX80's power delivery was immediate, achieving 0-96 km/h in 6.1 seconds. The body-on-frame platform boasted increased rigidity, and the adaptive suspension provided adjustable ground clearance. However, its size and weight made it challenging to maneuver, especially in tight spaces.

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid offered excellent visibility from the driver's seat, thanks to thinner roof pillars. The cabin felt open and airy, with ample space for front and rear passengers. The panoramic sunroof enhanced the sense of openness, while the cargo area provided 779 litres of space, easily accessible with a hands-free power liftgate. Storage options were adequate, with USB ports and air vents for rear passengers.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 boasted a spacious interior, accommodating up to seven passengers. Standard features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, and heated and ventilated front and second-row seats. The Autograph trim added massaging seats and semi-aniline leather. The third-row seats were power-folding, and the cargo space ranged from 623 litres to 2,860 litres, depending on the seat configuration. However, some controls were buried in touchscreen menus, which could be cumbersome to navigate.

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid featured an 11.6-inch vertical infotainment touchscreen with built-in navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Starlink system was user-friendly, with large on-screen buttons and easy-to-navigate menus. The X-Mode off-road drive menu and external camera views enhanced the driving experience, while the Harman Kardon audio system provided premium sound quality.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 was equipped with dual 14.3-inch screens for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system. It offered Google built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The 5G connection enabled a Wi-Fi hotspot and remote services. The QX80 excelled with its Klipsch audio systems, biometric cooling, and advanced camera views, although some controls were less intuitive.

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid earned high safety ratings, with five stars from the NHTSA and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. It came standard with Subaru's EyeSight suite, including collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. Additional features like blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on higher trims.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 offered a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and ProPilot Assist. The Autograph trim featured ProPilot Assist 2.1 for hands-free driving. The QX80 received an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation, though NHTSA ratings were not available at the time.