2025 Subaru Forester vs 2025 Hyundai Tucson

Choosing your next compact SUV? Let's compare two top contenders: the 2025 Subaru Forester and the 2025 Hyundai Tucson. Both offer comfort and technology, but when it comes to all-weather performance, safety, and long-term value, the Forester stands apart-especially for drivers in Vineland, NJ.

Quick Comparison Table: Forester vs. Tucson

Category2025 Subaru Forester2025 Hyundai Tucson
Drivetrain

  Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Standard
  Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) Standard; AWD Optional
Horsepower

  180 hp (2.5L Flat-4 Boxer®)
  187 hp (2.5L Inline-4)
Fuel Economy

  26 city / 33 highway MPG (AWD)
  25 city / 33 highway MPG (FWD); ~24/30 MPG (AWD)
Safety Ratings

  EyeSight® Standard; IIHS Top Safety Pick+
  Hyundai SmartSense; Some trims IIHS TSP; "Marginal" in new crash test
Cargo Space

  74.4 cu. ft. max; 29.6 cu. ft. behind 2nd row
  74.8 cu. ft. max; 38.7 cu. ft. behind 2nd row
Ground Clearance

  8.7 in (Forester); 9.2 in (Wilderness)
  7.1 in (FWD); 8.3 in (AWD)
Unique Strengths

  Standard AWD, top safety, off-road ready, high resale
  Sleek design, larger trunk, long warranty, hybrid option

As the table shows, the Forester holds key advantages in standard AWD, safety technology, and off-road ground clearance, while the Tucson offers a bit more cargo room and a longer warranty. Now, let's delve deeper into these points with a narrative comparison.

Performance & AWD Capability

The 2025 Forester's Boxer® engine and standard Symmetrical AWD ensure balanced handling and grip in all conditions. Tucson's higher horsepower may look better on paper, but real-world performance is nearly identical-and AWD is an added cost.

Fuel Efficiency

If you're comparing fuel economy with AWD, the Forester wins. It delivers up to 33 MPG highway with AWD standard-something the Tucson struggles to match without sacrificing traction.

Safety Technology

With Subaru EyeSight® standard across all trims, the Forester leads in advanced driver-assist features. Hyundai SmartSense is solid but lacks some features on base trims and scored lower in recent IIHS testing.

Cargo & Comfort

Tucson offers more space behind the rear seats, while both offer nearly identical max cargo capacity. Forester's upright cabin design adds excellent visibility and comfort for tall passengers.

Off-Road & All-Weather Advantage

Subaru's standard AWD and higher ground clearance make the Forester ideal for New Jersey winters and outdoor adventures. The Wilderness trim takes this further with even more capability.

Final Verdict: Why Choose the 2025 Subaru Forester?

For drivers who want standard all-wheel drive, class-leading safety, dependable fuel efficiency, and real off-road capability, the 2025 Subaru Forester is the smarter, all-around choice.

Ready to experience the Forester for yourself?


Shop New 2025 Forester Inventory

Visit RK Subaru in Vineland, NJ today.