2026 Hyundai Tucson Limited vs 2026 Subaru Forester Touring
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Tucson Limited starts at $40,300, $1,195 less. Forester Touring leads with 30 MPG. Tucson Limited makes 187 hp (+7).
| Spec | 2026 Hyundai Tucson Limited | 2026 Subaru Forester Touring |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $40,300 Save $1,195 | $41,495 +$1,195 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L Flat-4 |
| Horsepower | 187 hp +7 hp | 180 hp 7 hp less |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-Spd AT | CVT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 4 less | 29 +4 |
| Hwy MPG | 32 1 less | 33 +1 |
| Combined MPG | 28 2 less | 30 +2 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 38.7 cu ft | 29.6 cu ft |
| Screen | 10.25" | 11.6" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Panoramic | Panoramic |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,660 lbs | 3,650 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 108.3" | 105.1" |
| Length | 182.3" | 182.3" |
| Wheels | 19" Alloy | 18" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | SmartSense | EyeSight |
Tucson Limited or Forester Touring?
Both are competitive. Tucson Limited has a lower entry price, Forester Touring leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Hyundai Tucson Limited and 2026 Subaru Forester Touring?
Which gets better gas mileage, the Tucson Limited or Forester Touring?
Should I buy a 2026 Hyundai Tucson or Subaru Forester?
Which is more reliable, the Hyundai Tucson or Subaru Forester?
Is the Hyundai Tucson bigger than the Subaru Forester?
What is the cost of insurance for the Tucson Limited vs Forester Touring?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Hyundai Tucson Limited?
Who Should Choose the Tucson Limited
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson Limited appeals to buyers who want strong value without overspending. At $40,300, it undercuts the Forester Touring by $1,195.
Hyundai ownership comes with excellent warranty coverage and competitive technology. Compare more: Tucson SE vs Tucson SEL, Tucson SE vs Tucson XRT, Tucson SE vs Tucson Limited.
Who Should Choose the Forester Touring
The 2026 Subaru Forester Touring is the better fit for buyers who value what the Subaru Forester brings to the table. Superior fuel economy at 30 combined MPG is a genuine running-cost advantage.
Subaru's approach to this suv emphasizes a balance of features and value. If that aligns with your priorities, the Forester Touring deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $1,195 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Forester Touring carries a premium, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the Tucson Limited makes 7 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, larger wheels also contribute. Both are competitive within the suv market, and neither represents a poor value at their respective price points.
What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference
Enthusiast drivers will feel the differences immediately if there's a powertrain gap. The horsepower difference here is modest enough that most commuters won't notice it. Interior differences become apparent on longer trips where seat comfort, noise levels, and tech features matter more.
For buyers who primarily drive in urban and suburban settings under 40 mph, both of these suvs will feel remarkably similar in daily use. The differences surface on road trips, in extreme weather (where heated seats and AWD matter), and during technology-heavy interactions like navigation and phone integration.
When Both Suvs Feel the Same
In a parking lot, at a stoplight, or cruising in light traffic, these two vehicles deliver very similar experiences. Both are modern, safe suvs with contemporary safety suites, decent infotainment, and comfortable cabins. Neither will leave you feeling shortchanged in everyday scenarios.
The choice between Hyundai and Subaru often comes down to brand loyalty, dealer experience, and which vehicle simply feels right during a test drive. We recommend driving both back-to-back on the same day — the subtle differences in steering feel, seat position, and visibility are more informative than any spec sheet.