2026 Kia Sportage LX vs 2026 Subaru Forester Base
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Sportage LX starts at $32,090, $2,305 less. Forester Base leads with 30 MPG. Sportage LX makes 187 hp (+7).
| Spec | 2026 Kia Sportage LX | 2026 Subaru Forester Base |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $32,090 Save $2,305 | $34,395 +$2,305 |
| 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 | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 3 less | 29 +3 |
| Hwy MPG | 32 1 less | 33 +1 |
| Combined MPG | 28 2 less | 30 +2 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 39.5 cu ft | 29.6 cu ft |
| Screen | 8.0" | 11.6" |
| Wireless CarPlay | No | Yes |
| Heated Seats | No | No |
| Moonroof | No | No |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,546 lbs | 3,540 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 108.3" | 105.1" |
| Length | 183.5" | 182.3" |
| Wheels | 17" Alloy | 17" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | Drive Wise | EyeSight |
Sportage LX or Forester Base?
Both are competitive. Sportage LX has a lower entry price, Forester Base leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Kia Sportage LX and 2026 Subaru Forester Base?
Which gets better gas mileage, the Sportage LX or Forester Base?
Should I buy a 2026 Kia Sportage or Subaru Forester?
Which is more reliable, the Kia Sportage or Subaru Forester?
Is the Kia Sportage bigger than the Subaru Forester?
What is the cost of insurance for the Sportage LX vs Forester Base?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Kia Sportage LX?
Who Should Choose the Sportage LX
The 2026 Kia Sportage LX appeals to buyers who want strong value without overspending. At $32,090, it undercuts the Forester Base by $2,305.
Kia ownership comes with a distinct ownership proposition. Compare more: Sportage LX vs Sportage EX, Sportage LX vs Sportage X-Pro, Sportage LX vs Sportage SX Prestige.
Who Should Choose the Forester Base
The 2026 Subaru Forester Base 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 Base deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $2,305 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Forester Base carries a premium, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the Sportage LX makes 7 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, wireless CarPlay 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 Kia 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.