2025 Subaru Forester Base vs 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation
$2,105 less and 4 mpg better vs 25 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $2,105 price gap, 180 vs 175 hp, 29 vs 25 MPG.
The Forester Base leads on $2,105 less, 4 MPG better. The Terrain Elevation leads on 25 more lb-ft torque. 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 Subaru Forester Base | 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,995 | $32,100 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L flat 4 | 1.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 175 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 24 |
| Highway MPG | 33 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 25 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.6 gal | 15.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,750/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,510 lbs | 3,598 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 107.5" |
| Length | 183.3" | 181.0" |
| Width | 72.0" | 74.5" |
| Height | 68.1" | 65.8" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Subaru Forester Base and 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Base starts at $29,995, $2,105 less than the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation at $32,100. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $37/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Subaru Forester Base?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Base is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,105 in your pocket and the 2025 Subaru Forester Base covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $232/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation is the stronger pick when you prefer the GMC approach to the midsize SUV segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Subaru Forester Base or 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Base rates 29 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Subaru Forester Base or 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Base produces 180 hp, 5 more than the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation at 175 hp. The 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation also leads in torque at 203 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2025 Subaru Forester Base runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Subaru Forester Base bigger than the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Base is 2.3″ longer at 183.3″ vs 181.0″. The 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation has a 2.4″ 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: Subaru trims, Subaru Forester trims, GMC trims, GMC Terrain trims
- 2025 Subaru Forester Base Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Forester–Terrain Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Forester and Terrain compare. The $2,105 gap is about $37/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Subaru Forester Base runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 5 hp difference (180 vs 175) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2025 Subaru Forester Base saves roughly $232/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,160. The 2025 Subaru Forester Base wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Subaru Forester Base when you want to keep $2,105 in your pocket and the 2025 Subaru Forester Base covers your needs. Choose the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation when you prefer the GMC approach to the midsize SUV segment. At $37/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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 Subaru or GMC or any dealership.