2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT vs 2026 Subaru Forester Sport
$1,130 less vs 2 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $1,130 price gap, 187 vs 180 hp, 26 vs 28 MPG.
The Tucson XRT leads on $1,130 less. The Forester Sport leads on 2 MPG better. The spec table compares 4 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 4 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 Hyundai Tucson XRT | 2026 Subaru Forester Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $34,975 | $36,105 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 24 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 32 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.3 gal | 16.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 3,611 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 108.5" | 105.1" |
| Length | 182.7" | 183.3" |
| Width | 73.4" | 72.0" |
| Height | 66.3" | 68.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT and 2026 Subaru Forester Sport?
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT starts at $34,975, $1,130 less than the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport at $36,105. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $20/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT?
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,130 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $115/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT or 2026 Subaru Forester Sport?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport rates 28 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT or 2026 Subaru Forester Sport?
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT produces 187 hp, 7 more than the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport at 180 hp. The 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport uses a 2.5L flat 4.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT bigger than the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport is 0.6″ longer at 183.3″ vs 182.7″. The 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT has a 3.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Hyundai Tucson comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Subaru Forester offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Tucson trims, Subaru trims, Subaru Forester trims
The Tucson–Forester Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Tucson and Forester compare. The $1,130 gap is about $20/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 7 hp difference (187 vs 180) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport saves roughly $115/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $575.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT when you want to keep $1,130 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Tucson XRT covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $115/year less on fuel. At $20/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 Hyundai or Subaru or any dealership.