Subaru Forester vs Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid

Subaru redesigned the Forester SUV for 2025, introducing a hybrid version mid-year. By 2026, the Forester Wilderness model was on the horizon, featuring modifications aimed at enhancing utility and safety. The Wilderness-spec Subaru was easily recognizable with its lifted suspension, all-terrain tires, exclusive wheel designs, extra body cladding, and anodized copper accents. The look was divisive, but it seemed more fitting on the Forester Wilderness than other Subaru models. Inside, the Forester was designed for easy cleanup post-adventure, with water-resistant artificial leather and all-weather floor mats. Copper accents and Wilderness emblems adorned the interior, reinforcing its rugged identity. Subaru had not released details for the 2026 Forester Hybrid, but the gas-only lineup in Canada included several trims, with prices ranging from $36,884 to $48,384. The Forester was built in Indiana, but Canadian models were imported from Japan. Subaru offered numerous accessory upgrades, including gear attachments and pet-friendly features, with the Wilderness model's roof rack supporting a rooftop tent and awning.

Toyota's 2026 Grand Highlander was available with a standard turbocharged gas engine, a hybrid powertrain, and a powerful Hybrid Max configuration with full-time AWD and 362 horsepower. Canadian trims included XLE, Limited, and Platinum Hybrid Max, with hybrid prices ranging from $57,465 to $69,060. The top trim, Platinum Hybrid Max, featured Storm Cloud paint and no options, bringing the MSRP to $69,060. Toyota's styling was conservative, drawing inspiration from the RAV4, resulting in a larger version with seating for eight and ample cargo space. The interior prioritized function, with a layer of luxury in Platinum trim. The climate system was simple, but the infotainment interface had a tiny volume knob and no tuning knob. The Grand Highlander offered a soft, isolating ride, though undulations could cause vertical bounding. Handling was secure but limited, with excellent outward visibility aided by cameras. However, the front camera's frequent screen takeover was a nuisance.

The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness was not available with a turbocharged engine, unlike the Outback Wilderness, which was priced at $51,884. The Forester Wilderness featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, 80 hp and 99 lb-ft less than the Outback's turbo four. Despite weighing 135 kilograms less than the Outback, the Forester's power deficit was noticeable, especially at elevation. The CVT performed well, keeping the engine responsive and resisting droning, with eight programmed ratios and paddle shifters. The Wilderness model's shorter final-drive ratio improved low-speed responsiveness off-road, and towing capacity increased to 1,587 kilograms. Subaru's Active Torque Split AWD system was standard, with X-Mode Dual Mode traction settings for various terrains. The Wilderness model had 17-inch wheels, increased ground clearance, and more underbody protection. Off-roading capabilities were impressive, though fuel efficiency was not, with an average of 10.4 L/100 km during testing.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Max emphasized performance with a turbocharged 2.4-litre engine and electronic full-time AWD, producing 362 horsepower. The six-speed automatic transmission avoided the droning common in CVTs. The Hybrid Max traded fuel economy for power, with a combined rating of 8.8 L/100 km and a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. Testing showed 9.1 L/100 km on a balanced city-highway route and 10.1 L/100 km on a mountainous loop. The powertrain provided rewarding acceleration, with electric motors eliminating turbo lag. The ride quality was soft and isolating, though road undulations could cause vertical bounding. Handling was secure but limited, with early tire scrub and squeal. Visibility was excellent, aided by cameras, though the front camera's frequent screen takeover was a drawback.

The 2026 Subaru Forester prioritized function over form, with a classic two-box design maximizing passenger and cargo space. The Wilderness model's heated front seats were comfortable, with 10-way power adjustment for the driver and four-way manual adjustment for the passenger. Rear seat comfort was good, with ample legroom and foot space. Storage improved with a new centre console design, accommodating larger water bottles and a longer centre armrest. The Forester Wilderness offered 779 litres of cargo space, expanding to 1,957 litres with the rear seats folded. Subaru provided numerous accessories to enhance cargo-carrying capabilities.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander offered comfortable seating in all three rows, with over 2,700 litres of maximum cargo space. The Platinum trim featured a Portobello interior with leather and artificial suede upholstery. Front and second-row seats had heating, ventilation, and supportive cushions. The rear doors were long, making child seat access challenging. Second-row captain's chairs with a removable centre console allowed for easy third-row access. The rearmost seats were comfortable for adults and tall teens, with ample crush space behind them. Cargo space was 586 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,761 litres with the second row folded.

The 2026 Subaru Forester featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Subaru Multimedia Plus software, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a three-year MySubaru subscription. The system lacked a conversational digital voice assistant, and the screen could be cluttered. A 180-degree forward view camera system was standard, though the camera views were distorted.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and access to Apple Music and Amazon Music. Toyota Connected Services offered various features, including a digital voice assistant. The system was easy to use, though the font was hard to see. The Platinum trim included a head-up display, digital rear-view mirror, and surround-view camera system. The JBL audio system delivered excellent sound quality.

The 2026 Subaru Forester's EyeSight package included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centring assist. Additional features included active blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Emergency Stop Assist. The Forester earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander featured Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, with lane keep assist and Proactive Driving Assist. The safety tech operated accurately, though the lane keep assist system occasionally strayed too close to lane markers. The Grand Highlander earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA but fell short of a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.