Subaru Forester Vs. Hyundai Tucson: Which SUV Should You Choose?
Subaru Forester vs. Hyundai Tucson at a Glance
- Both the Subaru Forester and Hyundai Tucson are available in five feature-rich trim levels.
- The Forester comes with standard AWD, while the Hyundai Tucson sports standard FWD with AWD available.
- On every trim, drivetrain, and configuration, the Subaru Forester is the more fuel-efficient SUV.
- The Subaru Forester offers more specific, performance-minded capabilities than the Hyundai Tucson.
Compare Two Well-Equipped SUVs in Our Subaru Forester vs. Hyundai Tucson Guide
When it comes to the Subaru Forester vs. Hyundai Tucson rivalry, only one SUV comes out on top as the more well-rounded, off-road-capable model: the 2025 Subaru Forester. Here at Wallace Subaru of Bristol, we're dedicated to getting you behind the wheel of a nature-loving vehicle that keeps pace with your lifestyle. Contact our experts today to get a personalized introduction to the Subaru Forester!
| 2025 Subaru Forester Base | 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE | |
| Engine | 2.5L 4-cyl | 2.5L 4-cyl |
| Horsepower | 180 | 187 |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD or AWD |
| Transmission | Lineartronic CVT | 8-speed automatic |
| EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 26 / 33 / 291 |
|
| Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs3 | 2,000 lbs4 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Length | 183.3 in | 182.7 in |
| Width | 72 in | 73.4 in |
| Height | 68.1 in | 65.6 in |
Subaru Forester vs. Hyundai Tucson Trims
Let's kick off the Subaru Forester vs. Hyundai Tucson rivalry with a review of the lineup offered for each. The Subaru Forester is available in five feature-rich trims, including the following:
- Base
- Premium
- Sport
- Limited
- Touring
The Subaru Forester Base is replete with high-tier amenities, like dual-zone automatic climate control, comfortable cloth upholstery, and a dual 7-inch multimedia display. Move up the lineup to the Touring, and you're getting X-Mode, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped heated steering wheel, leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped shifter handle, and a premium Harman Kardon® sound system.
Like the Subaru Forester, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson is available in five trims, including these:
- SE
- SEL
- SEL Convenience
- XRT
- Limited
The entry-level Hyundai Tucson has some aspects in common with the Subaru Forester, including cloth upholstery, five-occupant seating, and a diverse set of safety features. However, Subaru Forester drivers will experience additional comfort, as dual automatic temperature control only comes on higher Tucson trims.
Opting for the pinnacle Tucson trim gets you some similar features to that of the Subaru Forester Touring, such as heated seats and a premium Bose® audio system. The Hyundai Tucson even offers a slightly larger touchscreen compared to the Subaru model, but it requires you to choose a higher trim to get certain comforts like genuine leather in the Tucson.
2025 Subaru Forester vs. 2025 Hyundai Tucson Engine Performance & Specs
The next step on our tour comparing the Subaru Forester vs. Hyundai Tucson differences is a look at engine performance.
Starting with the Hyundai Tucson, we find a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, capable of producing 187 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, under the hood of this SUV. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and FWD – AWD is available on every trim level, though.
The Subaru Forester not only keeps pace but overtakes the Hyundai Forester in terms of performance. This SUV has the same size engine under the hood: a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder engine capable of producing 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. Although the Forester produces seven fewer horsepower than its competitor, it excels in capability with its standard AWD drivetrain – you'll have to shell out more if you want added traction on the Tucson.
Subaru Forester vs. Hyundai Tucson Fuel Economy & MPG
The two SUVs in our Subaru Forester vs. Hyundai Tucson comparison offer excellent road-trip-worthy MPG values. However, there's a clear winner. Spoiler alert: it's the Subaru Forester again. We'll admit this part of our clash is close, but Forester beats out or ties with the Tucson even when comparing the former's standard AWD to the latter's standard FWD.
The Hyundai Tucson has different MPG values based on drivetrain. With its standard FWD, the Hyundai Tucson offers an EPA-estimated 25/33/28 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).2 Choose this model in AWD, and you'll be welcomed by a powertrain that delivers an EPA-estimated 24/30/26 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).2
The Subaru Forester MPG varies depending on the trim you opt for since every model has standard AWD and the same engine size. Choose the Base, Premium, or Sport trims to get an EPA-estimated 26/33/29 MPG (City/Highway/Combined),1 while the Limited and Touring models offer an EPA-estimated 25/32/28 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).1
If you're focused on getting a model with impressive performance and fuel savings, the Subaru Forester is ideal. Get a firsthand look at this contemporary adventurer at Wallace Subaru of Bristol today.
2025 Subaru Forester vs. 2025 Hyundai Tucson Safety & Driver-Assistance Features
Our Subaru Forester vs. Hyundai Tucson matchup wouldn't be complete if we didn't take a look at the safety and driver-assistance perks inside each. Both models are exceptionally safe and offer these standard and available features, among others:
- Blind-Spot Detection System
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Rear-Vision Camera
- 360-Degree Surround View Monitor
Subaru Forester vs. Hyundai Tucson Towing Capacity
Hauling your essentials won't be an issue for either model in our Subaru Forester vs. Hyundai Tucson comparison. The two boast nearly the same towing capacity. Choose the new Subaru Forester for sale, and you'll be getting an SUV that tows up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped.
Comparatively, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson can tow up to 2,000 pounds when properly equipped.
Which SUV Takes the Crown in Our Subaru Forester vs. Hyundai Tucson Comparison?
With impressive MPG values, standard AWD, and a longer, taller frame, we're confident in crowning the Subaru Forester. Although the Hyundai Tucson puts up a good fight, the Subaru Forester simply delivers more value to drivers seeking an adventure SUV capable of tackling whatever life throws its way. What's more, our Wallace Subaru of Bristol team will be happy to pair you with Subaru Forester deals that'll appease your wallet!
Visit us to tour and test-drive the Forester today. You can apply for financing online if you're ready to get the ball rolling before you arrive!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which SUV has standard all-wheel drive: the 2025 Subaru Forester or the Hyundai Tucson?
The 2025 Subaru Forester comes with standard all-wheel drive across every member of its five-trim lineup, while the Hyundai Tucson sports FWD as the standard outfitting. The Hyundai Tucson does offer AWD but at an additional cost. This makes the Subaru Forester a more appealing option for drivers looking for excellent standard handling. Check out the Forester at Wallace Subaru of Bristol today.
Is the Subaru Forester or Hyundai Tucson better suited for off-road adventures?
Both the Subaru Forester and Hyundai Tucson are capable of handling off-road adventures, but the Subaru Forester is better suited for it. The Subaru Forester comes standard with AWD and a smooth CVT, while the Hyundai Tucson has lightweight FWD and an eight-speed automatic transmission. These features mean the Forester is better in gravel, sand, mud, and other non-pavement terrain.
Which SUV offers more comprehensive standard safety features: the Forester or the Tucson?
Both the Subaru Forester and Hyundai Tucson are outfitted with similar safety features. Some of the features you'll find on both models include a Blind-Spot Detection system, Lane Change Assist, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, among others. While the Subaru model comes out ahead in many aspects, you'll get a vehicle that excels in safety with either of these models.
See Other Subaru Comparisons
| Subaru Ascent Vs Honda Pilot | Subaru Crosstrek Vs Chevy Trax | Subaru Crosstrek Vs Honda HR-V |
| Subaru Forester Vs Toyota RAV4 | Subaru Outback Vs Honda CR-V | Subaru Outback Vs Toyota RAV4 |
1EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage will vary with driving conditions and your vehicle’s condition.
2All figures are EPA estimates and for comparison purposes only. Actual mileage may vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle's condition.
3Maximum towing capacity varies by trim level. Trailer brakes may be needed. See your retailer for details.
4Towing capability varies by configuration. See the towing guide in the Owner’s Manual for proper use and additional information.
