Ford Explorer vs Subaru Forester Hybrid

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid underwent a significant redesign, presenting a more cohesive yet conventional look compared to its predecessor. This sixth-generation compact SUV adopted a blockier shape, reminiscent of a smaller Ford Explorer, which may have contributed to its broader appeal. Despite losing some of its distinctiveness, 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 enhanced comfort in frequently touched areas, and the front seats offered ample support for long journeys.

The 2026 Ford Explorer retained its familiar appearance following a 2025 facelift that introduced a more truck-like design. The Tremor model amplified its ruggedness with all-terrain tires, a raised ride height, and distinctive Electric Spice accents. The Explorer's interior, revamped in 2025, featured a new infotainment system and improved integration of screens. While the materials in the Tremor test vehicle didn't quite match its price, the Explorer offered a range of options from basic cloth seats to luxurious leather upholstery. Despite its generic SUV design, the Explorer's interior provided functional storage solutions and a comfortable ride, even in the off-road-oriented Tremor model.

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 more power than the standard Forester's 180 hp. The all-wheel-drive system, utilizing a traditional driveshaft, provided better traction and consistent off-road performance. While acceleration was adequate, the hybrid transmission sometimes made the vehicle feel slower due to its unique operation. The Forester Hybrid excelled off-road with its X-Mode drive programming and hill descent control, offering a balanced blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability.

The 2026 Ford Explorer offered two powertrain options: a standard 2.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and a twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 producing 400 hp. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The Tremor model featured additional off-road enhancements, including a Torsen limited-slip rear differential and steel skid plates. The Explorer's unibody construction, shared with the Mustang and Lincoln Aviator, contributed to its confident handling and comfortable ride. The twin-turbo V6 provided ample power for passing and towing, while the 10-speed automatic ensured smooth gear transitions. Off-road, the Tremor model demonstrated impressive capability, handling challenging trails with ease.

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid offered an unobstructed forward view thanks to its thin front roof pillars, enhancing the driving experience in various environments. The front seats provided ample space and comfort, while the rear seats accommodated average-sized adults with generous legroom and headroom. The standard panoramic sunroof added to the cabin's airy feel. Storage solutions included a wireless charging pad, cup holders, and door pockets, though cargo space was slightly less than some rivals at 779 litres. The hands-free power liftgate and power remote seatback releases facilitated easy loading and unloading of cargo.

The 2026 Ford Explorer accommodated up to seven passengers across three rows, with the option for second-row captain's chairs. While the third row offered less headroom than some competitors, the overall space was reasonable for a midsize crossover. The Explorer provided 461 litres of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 1,302 litres with the rear seats folded and 2,415 litres with the second row down. Although it lacked underfloor storage, the Explorer offered practical storage solutions, including phone trays, door pockets, and a large centre console. The Explorer's towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms was average for its class.

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid featured an 11.6-inch vertical infotainment touchscreen with built-in navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Starlink infotainment system received praise for its user-friendly interface and large on-screen buttons. The X-Mode off-road drive menu and external camera views enhanced the Forester's off-road capabilities. The Hybrid model also included an 11-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system.

The 2026 Ford Explorer came equipped with a 13.2-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The Ford Digital Experience infotainment system provided quick response times and simple graphics. The Explorer featured multiple USB ports across all rows and offered a 10-speaker B&O audio system, with a 14-speaker version available. The 360-degree camera system proved useful for off-road adventures, remaining active at higher speeds.

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid earned high safety ratings, with five stars from the NHTSA in most categories and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. Standard safety features included Subaru's EyeSight suite, with advanced options available on higher trims. The systems functioned smoothly, with customizable alerts for lane-keep assist.

The 2026 Ford Explorer received top safety ratings, including an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The CoPilot 360+ suite offered a comprehensive range of driver-assist features, with additional enhancements available on higher trims. The BlueCruise hands-free highway driving system, upgraded to version 1.5, added automated lane change capability.