2026 Honda CR-V EX-L vs 2026 Subaru Forester Premium
On paper, the 2026 Subaru Forester Premium wins on $3,515 less. The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 190 vs 180 hp, 29 vs 29 MPG.
The Forester Premium leads on $3,515 less. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 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 | 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L | 2026 Subaru Forester Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,900 | $33,385 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 190 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 179 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 33 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.0 gal | 16.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,500/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,635 lbs | 3,569 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.3" | 105.1" |
| Length | 184.8" | 183.3" |
| Width | 73.5" | 72.0" |
| Height | 66.5" | 68.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | 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 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L and 2026 Subaru Forester Premium?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Premium starts at $33,385, $3,515 less than the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L at $36,900. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $62/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L?
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L is the stronger pick when the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Forester Premium?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Premium is the stronger pick when you want to keep $3,515 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Forester Premium covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L or 2026 Subaru Forester Premium?
Both achieve 29 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L or 2026 Subaru Forester Premium?
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L produces 190 hp, 10 more than the 2026 Subaru Forester Premium at 180 hp. The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L also leads in torque at 179 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Subaru Forester Premium uses a 2.5L flat 4.
Is the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L bigger than the 2026 Subaru Forester Premium?
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L is 1.5″ longer at 184.8″ vs 183.3″. The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L has a 1.2″ 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 CR-V trims, Subaru trims, Subaru Forester trims
CR-V vs Forester: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L and 2026 Subaru Forester Premium sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $-3,515 gap adds up to $62/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 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Subaru Forester Premium uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 10 hp difference (190 vs 180) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: CR-V vs Forester
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L when the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute. Choose the 2026 Subaru Forester Premium when you want to keep $3,515 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Forester Premium 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.