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Ford Explorer vs Subaru Forester Hybrid

2026 Ford Explorer
2026 Ford Explorer
$38,465MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
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2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid
$36,595MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Ford Explorer
$38,465MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid
$36,595MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP

$38,465

MSRP

$36,595

Listings

4462

Listings

55

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.5 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.0 out of 10

Pros

  • Comfortable

  • Optional twin-turbo V6

  • Impressive safety ratings

Cons

  • Bland styling

  • Nondescript interior

  • Gets expensive with options

Pros

  • Fuel-efficient

  • Impressive off-road abilities

  • Comfortable

Cons

  • Fairly pedestrian performance

  • Firm ride quality

Reviews Summary

The Explorer was one of the first truly family-friendly SUVs, and it continues in that role today as a midsize three-row crossover competing against the likes of the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Nissan Pathfinder, and Toyota Highlander. The current-generation Explorer has been around since the 2020 model year, and the big news for 2026 is a Tremor model that replaces the Timberline as the most off-road-capable Explorer. The available BlueCruise driver-assist system also gets an update.

Verdict: Ford’s SUV stalwart still gets the job done, but it lacks personality unless you go for the ST or Tremor models.

Reviews Summary

Subaru’s rugged reputation makes it a popular choice among Canadians who regularly conquer challenging conditions. The redesigned 2025 Subaru Forester reinforces those advantages. This time around, a new Forester Hybrid model adds efficiency as another plus, along with more power and a few extra features. It’s due to be followed by the smaller Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid in fall 2025.

Verdict: The new Forester Hybrid is a more efficient version of Subaru's rugged and evergreen compact SUV.

No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.3L 300 hp I4

Engine

2.5L 194 hp H4 Hybrid

Drive Train

RWD

Drive Train

AWD

Seating Capacity

7

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

300 hp @ 5500 rpm

Horsepower

EV Battery Capacity

EV Battery Capacity

1.1 kWh

MPG City

20

MPG City

35

MPG Highway

29

MPG Highway

34
2026 Ford Explorer
2026 Ford Explorer
$38,465MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
Photo not loading
2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid
$36,595MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Ford Explorer
$38,465MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid
$36,595MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP
$38,465
$36,595
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

4.3

Expert reviews

7.5 out of 10

Read full review

7.0 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons

Pros

  • Comfortable

  • Optional twin-turbo V6

  • Impressive safety ratings

Cons

  • Bland styling

  • Nondescript interior

  • Gets expensive with options

Pros

  • Fuel-efficient

  • Impressive off-road abilities

  • Comfortable

Cons

  • Fairly pedestrian performance

  • Firm ride quality

Summary

The Explorer was one of the first truly family-friendly SUVs, and it continues in that role today as a midsize three-row crossover competing against the likes of the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Nissan Pathfinder, and Toyota Highlander. The current-generation Explorer has been around since the 2020 model year, and the big news for 2026 is a Tremor model that replaces the Timberline as the most off-road-capable Explorer. The available BlueCruise driver-assist system also gets an update.

Verdict: Ford’s SUV stalwart still gets the job done, but it lacks personality unless you go for the ST or Tremor models.

Subaru’s rugged reputation makes it a popular choice among Canadians who regularly conquer challenging conditions. The redesigned 2025 Subaru Forester reinforces those advantages. This time around, a new Forester Hybrid model adds efficiency as another plus, along with more power and a few extra features. It’s due to be followed by the smaller Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid in fall 2025.

Verdict: The new Forester Hybrid is a more efficient version of Subaru's rugged and evergreen compact SUV.

Video
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
2.3L 300 hp I4
2.5L 194 hp H4 Hybrid
Drive Train
RWD
AWD
Seating Capacity
7
5
Horsepower
300 hp @ 5500 rpm
EV Battery Capacity
1.1 kWh
MPG City
20
35
MPG Highway
29
34
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