Subaru Forester vs Porsche Cayenne

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne was available in both a standard SUV form and a sporty Cayenne Coupe, each with distinct trim levels ranging from the base Cayenne to the high-performance Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid. The GTS trim, which was the focus of many reviews, featured high gloss black trim, a unique front fascia with larger air intakes, and tinted headlights. Red brake calipers were visible through 21-inch anthracite grey wheels, and the Cayenne Coupe boasted an adaptive rear spoiler. Inside, the Cayenne offered extensive customization options, from interior colours like Carmine Red to various trim and seat belt choices. While the pricing could become steep, the customization ensured a unique vehicle. The cabin was well-organized, with mechanical controls for essential features and a dashboard-mounted shifter toggle that freed up storage space, although the sliding centre console was a minor drawback.

The 2026 Subaru Forester, redesigned for 2025, introduced a Wilderness model with a lifted suspension, all-terrain tires, exclusive wheel designs, and anodized copper accents. The Wilderness model's rugged appearance was polarizing, but it suited the Forester's adventurous spirit. The interior was designed for easy cleanup after outdoor activities, featuring water-resistant artificial leather and all-weather floor mats. The Forester Wilderness also included copper accents and Wilderness emblems on the head restraints. While the 2026 Forester Hybrid details were not yet announced, the gas-only lineup in Canada included various trims with prices ranging from $36,884 to $48,384. Subaru offered numerous accessory upgrades, including gear attachments and pet-friendly features. The Wilderness model's roof rack supported a rooftop tent and awning, enhancing its camping capabilities.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered a range of engines, starting with a 3.0-litre V6 producing 348 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque. For those seeking more power, the Cayenne S featured a V8 with 468 hp, while the Turbo GT, available only as a coupe, delivered 650 hp. Plug-in hybrid options provided up to 729 hp. The GTS trim, with its twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8, produced 493 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed transmission and all-wheel drive. The GTS could accelerate to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 275 km/h. The GTS trim struck a balance between sporty and comfortable, with precise steering and a low centre of gravity. The optional carbon ceramic brakes required some adjustment but offered strong stopping power. The Cayenne GTS transformed from a sporty SUV to a comfortable commuter in Normal mode, showcasing its versatility.

The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness, lacking a turbocharged engine, relied on a 2.5-litre four-cylinder producing 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. While it weighed less than the Outback Wilderness, the Forester's power deficit was noticeable, especially at elevation. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) kept the engine responsive, with eight programmed ratios and paddle shifters for manual control. The Wilderness model featured a shorter final-drive ratio for improved low-speed responsiveness and increased towing capacity to 1,587 kilograms. Subaru's Active Torque Split AWD system, with X-Mode Dual Mode traction settings, enhanced off-road capability. The Wilderness model's 17-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, and increased ground clearance improved its off-road performance. The Forester Wilderness handled challenging trails, offering extra capability as an insurance policy for unexpected terrain. On pavement, it provided a comfortable ride, secure handling, and a quiet cabin, though fuel efficiency was not its strong suit.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered a la carte features, with the base model including eight-way power-adjustable seats, two-zone climate control, and ambient lighting. Higher trims like the GTS added a GT Sport steering wheel and Race-Tex headliner. The options list was extensive, allowing for customization of interior materials and features. However, the Cayenne lacked a third row, accommodating only five passengers. The Cayenne's towing capacity was impressive at 3,500 kilograms, but its cargo space was smaller than competitors, with 772 litres behind the second row and 1,708 litres with seats folded. The coupe version offered less space, and plug-in hybrid models further reduced cargo capacity.

The 2026 Subaru Forester prioritized function over form, with a classic two-box design maximizing passenger and cargo space. The Wilderness model featured comfortable heated front seats, with the driver's seat offering 10-way power adjustment. Rear seat comfort was good, with ample legroom and safety improvements. The new centre console design improved storage, and the power liftgate revealed 779 litres of cargo space, expanding to 1,957 litres with the rear seats folded. The Forester's boxy design made efficient use of space, and Subaru offered numerous accessories to enhance its carrying capacity.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne featured a 12.6-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen with Porsche Communication Management, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An optional 10.9-inch passenger screen allowed for media control and video streaming. The system was user-friendly, with voice control options. A head-up display provided essential information, though it was dim with polarized sunglasses. The Cayenne included four USB-C charging ports and a cooled wireless charging area.

The 2026 Subaru Forester came with an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Subaru Multimedia Plus software, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system lacked a digital voice assistant, but voice recognition could handle simple commands. The infotainment screen was busy and cluttered, but smartphone integration offered an alternative. The Forester Wilderness included wireless smartphone charging and a Harman Kardon audio system. A 180-degree forward view camera system improved trail visibility, though the camera's distorted view was a drawback.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne included standard parking sensors, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring, but adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist were optional. Porsche's InnoDrive adaptive cruise control system was not tested. The Cayenne lacked ratings from NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2026 Subaru Forester featured EyeSight, a package of advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Additional features included active blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Emergency Stop Assist. The Forester's rear seatbelts were improved for safety, and it earned a Top Safety Pick rating from IIHS. NHTSA awarded the 2025 Forester five-star ratings in individual assessments.