2026 Kia Sorento LX vs 2025 Subaru Forester Base
On paper, the 2025 Subaru Forester Base wins on $2,395 less, 3 MPG better, AWD. The 2026 Kia Sorento LX has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 191 vs 180 hp, 26 vs 29 MPG.
The Forester Base leads on $2,395 less, 3 MPG better, AWD. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 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 Kia Sorento LX | 2025 Subaru Forester Base |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $32,390 | $29,995 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 191 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 181 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 33 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 17.7 gal | 16.6 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,814 lbs | 3,510 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 110.8" | 105.1" |
| Length | 189.6" | 183.3" |
| Width | 74.8" | 72.0" |
| Height | 66.7" | 68.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/100k | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Kia Sorento LX and 2025 Subaru Forester Base?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Base starts at $29,995, $2,395 less than the 2026 Kia Sorento LX at $32,390. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $42/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Kia Sorento LX?
The 2026 Kia Sorento LX is the stronger pick when you prefer the Kia approach to the midsize SUV segment.
Who should choose the 2025 Subaru Forester Base?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Base is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,395 in your pocket and the 2025 Subaru Forester Base covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $167/year less on fuel; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Kia Sorento LX or 2025 Subaru Forester Base?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Base rates 29 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Kia Sorento LX or 2025 Subaru Forester Base?
The 2026 Kia Sorento LX produces 191 hp, 11 more than the 2025 Subaru Forester Base at 180 hp. The 2026 Kia Sorento LX also leads in torque at 181 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Kia Sorento LX runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Subaru Forester Base uses a 2.5L flat 4. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2026 Kia Sorento LX, AWD on the 2025 Subaru Forester Base.
Is the 2026 Kia Sorento LX bigger than the 2025 Subaru Forester Base?
The 2026 Kia Sorento LX is 6.3″ longer at 189.6″ vs 183.3″. The 2026 Kia Sorento LX has a 5.7″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Kia Sorento LX and 2025 Subaru Forester Base have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Subaru Forester Base comes with AWD, while the 2026 Kia Sorento LX uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
The Kia Sorento 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: Kia trims, Kia Sorento trims, Subaru trims, Subaru Forester trims
- 2026 Kia Sorento LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Subaru Forester Base Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Sorento vs Forester: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Kia Sorento LX and 2025 Subaru Forester Base sit in the midsize SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $-2,395 gap is about $42/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Kia Sorento LX runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Subaru Forester Base uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 11 hp difference (191 vs 180) is marginal in daily driving. The 2025 Subaru Forester Base comes with AWD; the 2026 Kia Sorento LX uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: Sorento vs Forester
The 2025 Subaru Forester Base saves roughly $167/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $835.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2026 Kia Sorento LX has a 5.7″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2026 Kia Sorento LX weighs 304 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Kia Sorento LX when you prefer the Kia approach to the midsize SUV segment. Choose the 2025 Subaru Forester Base when you want to keep $2,395 in your pocket and the 2025 Subaru Forester Base 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 Kia or Subaru or any dealership.