2025 Subaru Forester Touring vs 2026 BMW X1 M35i
$10,805 less vs 132 more hp and 117 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $10,805 price gap, 180 vs 312 hp, 28 vs 27 MPG.
The Forester Touring leads on $10,805 less. The X1 M35i leads on 132 more hp, 117 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 Touring | 2026 BMW X1 M35i |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $41,595 | $52,400 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L flat 4 | 2.0L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 312 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 295 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 7-speed automated manual |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 24 |
| Highway MPG | 32 | 32 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 27 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.6 gal | 14.3 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,664 lbs | 3,790 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 106.0" |
| Length | 183.3" | 177.4" |
| Width | 72.0" | 72.6" |
| Height | 68.1" | 64.6" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 4/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 12yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 4yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring and 2026 BMW X1 M35i?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Touring starts at $41,595, $10,805 less than the 2026 BMW X1 M35i at $52,400. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $191/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Touring is the stronger pick when you want to keep $10,805 in your pocket and the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $56/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 BMW X1 M35i?
The 2026 BMW X1 M35i is the stronger pick when the extra 132 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring or 2026 BMW X1 M35i?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Touring rates 28 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring or 2026 BMW X1 M35i?
The 2026 BMW X1 M35i produces 312 hp, 132 more than the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring at 180 hp. The 2026 BMW X1 M35i also leads in torque at 295 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2025 Subaru Forester Touring runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 BMW X1 M35i uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring bigger than the 2026 BMW X1 M35i?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Touring is 5.9″ longer at 183.3″ vs 177.4″. The 2026 BMW X1 M35i has a 0.9″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Subaru Forester comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The BMW X1 offers 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Subaru trims, Subaru Forester trims, BMW trims, BMW X1 trims
- 2025 Subaru Forester Touring Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 BMW X1 M35i Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Forester vs X1: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Subaru Forester Touring and 2026 BMW X1 M35i sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $10,805 gap adds up to $191/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Subaru Forester Touring runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 BMW X1 M35i uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. The 2026 BMW X1 M35i has 132 more hp (312 vs 180). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2026 BMW X1 M35i adds 117 more lb-ft of torque (295 vs 178), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Forester vs X1
The 2025 Subaru Forester Touring saves roughly $56/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $280.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring when you want to keep $10,805 in your pocket and the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring covers your needs. Choose the 2026 BMW X1 M35i when the extra 132 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $191/month more, the 2026 BMW X1 M35i needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
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 BMW or any dealership.