2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid vs 2026 Subaru Forester Sport
9 mpg better and 24 more hp vs $4,120 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 204 vs 180 hp, 37 vs 28 MPG.
The CR-V Sport-L Hybrid leads on 9 MPG better, 24 more hp. The Forester Sport leads on $4,120 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 Sport-L Hybrid | 2026 Subaru Forester Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $40,225 | $36,105 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 hybrid | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 204 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | No published data | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | electrically variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 40 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 34 | 32 |
| Combined MPG | 37 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.0 gal | 16.6 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,893 lbs | 3,611 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 Sport-L Hybrid and 2026 Subaru Forester Sport?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport starts at $36,105, $4,120 less than the 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid at $40,225. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $72/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid?
The 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $365/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,120 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid or 2026 Subaru Forester Sport?
The 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid rates 37 combined MPG, 9 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid or 2026 Subaru Forester Sport?
The 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid produces 204 hp, 24 more than the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport at 180 hp. The 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid runs a 2.0L I4 hybrid; the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport uses a 2.5L flat 4.
Is the 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid bigger than the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport?
The 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid is 1.5″ longer at 184.8″ vs 183.3″. The 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid 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
How the CR-V and Forester Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid ($40,225) and 2026 Subaru Forester Sport ($36,105) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-4,120 gap adds up to $72/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: CR-V vs Forester
The 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid runs a 2.0L I4 hybrid; the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid has 24 more hp (204 vs 180), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid saves roughly $365/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,825.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Honda CR-V Sport-L Hybrid when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $365/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport when you want to keep $4,120 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport 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.