March 26, 2025

2025 Subaru Forester Vs. Ford Explorer: Fuel Economy, Space, And More!

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If you’re considering an SUV, the 2025 Subaru Forester vs. Ford Explorer comparison result might influence your decision. Both vehicles are reliable, well-equipped, and versatile in their ways, but they cater to slightly different needs. The Subaru Forester is an excellent compact SUV with impressive fuel efficiency and off-road capability. The Ford Explorer, on the other hand, is a larger SUV offering more power, space, and features. Let’s take a closer look at how they stack up to help you decide which is a better fit for your needs.

Pricing and Value: Getting More for Your Money

The 2025 Subaru Forester has a more budget-friendly starting price which makes it an attractive option for those looking to save a bit while still getting a reliable SUV. It’s perfect if you don’t need an excessively large vehicle and are looking for a good balance of utility and cost. While the Forester might fit the budget-conscious driver, the Explorer provides added value with its increased towing capacity, larger engine options, and more advanced technology.

Power and Performance: Which One Moves You?

When it comes to power, the Ford Explorer takes the lead. The 2025 Explorer comes with a 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine that generates 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine gives the Explorer impressive power, especially when you’re looking to tow or take long road trips. It’s also more powerful than the Subaru Forester’s 2.5L H-4 engine, which produces only 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. The Forester is fine for everyday driving and light adventures, but the Explorer’s engine gives you that extra boost for heavier tasks, like hauling or tackling steeper inclines.

Fuel Economy: Saving at the Pump

If fuel economy is at the top of your list, the Subaru Forester has the edge. It’s more efficient, offering 9.1 L/100km in the city and 7.2 L/100km on the highway. This means fewer stops at the pump, which can be a big advantage for those who do a lot of driving around town or prefer to save on fuel costs. The Explorer, with its larger engine, doesn’t do quite as well. It offers 13.3 L/100km in the city and 9.6 L/100km on the highway. While it’s still decent for a larger SUV, it’s not as fuel-efficient as the Forester.

Interior Space and Comfort: Room for the Family

The Ford Explorer stands out when it comes to interior space. It offers three rows of seating, which can accommodate up to seven passengers, making it a great choice for larger families or those who need more space. With a generous 462 to 1,264 liters (16.3 to 44.6 cubic feet) of cargo space, the Explorer allows you to load up for road trips, camping weekends, or any adventure that requires extra gear. Plus, the seats fold down flat to create even more room when needed.

The Subaru Forester, in contrast, is a compact SUV with a more confined interior. It seats up to five people comfortably, and while it offers 779 to 1,164 liters (27.5 to 41.1 cubic feet) of cargo space, it’s simply not as spacious as the Explorer.

Which One is Right for You?

In the 2025 Subaru Forester vs Ford Explorer comparison, the choice depends on what you need in an SUV. If you’re looking for a compact, fuel-efficient vehicle with off-road capabilities, the Ford Explorer is an excellent choice. It’s also the right pick for city dwellers. At Matthews-Currie Ford in Nokomis, FL, we can help you find the Ford Explorer that’s right for you. Visit us to explore all the features that make the Explorer a standout SUV.