2025 Honda Passport EX-L vs 2025 Subaru Forester Base
100 more hp and 84 more lb-ft torque vs $12,405 less and 8 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 280 vs 180 hp, 21 vs 29 MPG.
The Passport EX-L leads on 100 more hp, 84 more lb-ft torque. The Forester Base leads on $12,405 less, 8 MPG better. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Honda Passport EX-L | 2025 Subaru Forester Base |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $42,400 | $29,995 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 280 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 19 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 24 | 33 |
| Combined MPG | 21 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 19.5 gal | 16.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $2,100/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,236 lbs | 3,510 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 110.9" | 105.1" |
| Length | 189.1" | 183.3" |
| Width | 78.6" | 72.0" |
| Height | 72.2" | 68.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L and 2025 Subaru Forester Base?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Base starts at $29,995, $12,405 less than the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L at $42,400. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $219/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L?
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L is the stronger pick when the extra 100 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2025 Subaru Forester Base?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Base is the stronger pick when you want to keep $12,405 in your pocket and the 2025 Subaru Forester Base covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $552/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L or 2025 Subaru Forester Base?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Base rates 29 combined MPG, 8 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L or 2025 Subaru Forester Base?
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L produces 280 hp, 100 more than the 2025 Subaru Forester Base at 180 hp. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L also leads in torque at 262 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L runs a 3.5L V6; the 2025 Subaru Forester Base uses a 2.5L flat 4.
Is the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L bigger than the 2025 Subaru Forester Base?
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L is 5.8″ longer at 189.1″ vs 183.3″. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L has a 5.8″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Honda trims, Honda Passport trims, Subaru trims, Subaru Forester trims
The Passport–Forester Decision
Cross-shopping midsize SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Passport and Forester compare. The $-12,405 gap adds up to $219/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L runs a 3.5L V6; the 2025 Subaru Forester Base uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L has 100 more hp (280 vs 180). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L adds 84 more lb-ft of torque (262 vs 178), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2025 Subaru Forester Base saves roughly $552/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $2,760.
Living With the Passport vs the Forester
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L has a 5.8″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L weighs 726 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L when the extra 100 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2025 Subaru Forester Base when you want to keep $12,405 in your pocket and the 2025 Subaru Forester Base covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Honda or Subaru or any dealership.