2025 Hyundai Kona vs 2025 Subaru Forester

The 2025 Subaru Forester underwent a noticeable visual transformation, focusing on a more generic and smoothed-out appearance compared to its predecessors. The styling changes were evident, with steering-responsive LED headlights and a grille that created an "integrated shield effect." The Forester Sport trim featured bronze accents, adding a mature touch, while the Premier trim boasted 19-inch wheels. The vehicle maintained its large-greenhouse shape, but with geometric wheel arches and a more decisive window shape. The interior saw improvements with StarTex material in the Sport trim and genuine leather in higher trims, offering a more intentional and designed look.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona retained its fresh appearance from the previous year, standing out in the crossover class with its futuristic design. The single-piece grille and ultra-slim LED light bars gave it a distinctive look. The Kona's increased size, 15 centimetres longer than its predecessor, provided more interior space and a more assertive stance. The N Line trim featured sportier design elements, while other trims offered varying levels of visual enhancements. The interior remained unchanged, offering a solid and airy feel with ample tech features. The Kona's design was both functional and visually appealing, making it a standout in its class.

The 2025 Subaru Forester featured a 2.5-litre Boxer four-cylinder engine, producing 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. This represented a slight increase in horsepower and a decrease in torque compared to the previous model. The Lineartonic CVT and Symmetrical AWD system were standard, providing stability and traction. The Forester's X-Mode system, with Hill Descent Control, enhanced off-road capabilities. While acceleration was not particularly peppy, the Forester offered a smooth and confident driving experience on various surfaces. Fuel economy was rated at 9.1 L/100 km in the city, 7.2 on the highway, and 8.2 combined.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona offered two engine options for its gas-powered models. The Essential and Preferred trims featured a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with an IVT. The Kona N Line boasted a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission. AWD was available on lower trims and standard on the N Line, enhancing traction and handling. The Kona's performance was adequate, with the turbo engine providing a more muscular feel, although it could feel flat at low revs.

The 2025 Subaru Forester introduced a hands-free power liftgate, increasing cargo space slightly to 779 litres with rear seats in place and 1,957 litres with them folded. The cargo area featured eight heavy-duty hooks, offering practicality for loading gear. The Forester's roomy second row contributed to its competitive cargo volume, although it fell slightly short compared to some rivals. The interior included a dark headliner, heated front seats, and power-adjustable seating options in higher trims, enhancing comfort and convenience.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona offered 723 litres of cargo capacity with rear seats in place, expanding to 1,803 litres when folded. The dual-level cargo floor added versatility. Rear legroom measured 970 mm, providing ample space for passengers. The front seats offered a generous range of movement, and the steering wheel was adjustable for reach and height. The Kona's interior featured excellent storage options, with various shelves and compartments. Upholstery options ranged from cloth to leatherette and Alcantara sport seats, with heated front seats standard in Canada.

The 2025 Subaru Forester introduced an 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus infotainment system, standard on all but the base trim, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The base model retained dual 7-inch touchscreens with wired smartphone projection. Higher trims included dual USB ports, a wireless charging pad, and a navigation system powered by TomTom and SiriusXM Travel Link. The Harman Kardon sound system was standard on top trims, and Subaru's Starlink connected services offered additional capabilities.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona featured a 12.3-inch central touchscreen infotainment display across all trims, with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The Preferred trim with the Trend package and the N Line trim included wireless smartphone charging and Hyundai's digital key. The N Line trim offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, providing customization options. The N Line with the Ultimate package featured an eight-speaker Bose audio system and built-in navigation. Hyundai's Bluelink connectivity enabled over-the-air software updates.

The 2025 Subaru Forester offered advanced safety features, including Emergency Stop Assist, available on higher trims with the driver distraction-mitigation system. Adaptive cruise control was standard, while blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane change assist were available from the Touring grade. Subaru's EyeSight suite of driver-assistance technology included enhancements for 2025, such as a wider field of view and an electric brake booster. The Forester had not yet been crash-tested, but previous models received high safety ratings.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona impressed with its standard safety technology, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, and more. Higher trims added advanced features like Highway Driving Assist and Blind Spot View Monitor. The N Line with the Ultimate package included parking assistance technologies. All Konas featured six airbags, electronic stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Kona received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.