2026 Subaru Forester Base vs 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend
On paper, the 2026 Subaru Forester Base wins on $1,700 less, 2 MPG better, 10.6″ longer. The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $1,700 price gap, 180 vs 181 hp, 29 vs 27 MPG.
The Forester Base leads on $1,700 less, 2 MPG better, 10.6″ longer. 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 Subaru Forester Base | 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,995 | $31,695 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L flat 4 | 1.5L I3 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 181 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 190 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 33 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 27 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.6 gal | 16.0 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,510 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 105.1" |
| Length | 183.3" | 172.7" |
| Width | 72.0" | 74.3" |
| Height | 68.1" | 70.2" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Subaru Forester Base and 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Base starts at $29,995, $1,700 less than the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend at $31,695. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $30/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Forester Base?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Base is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,700 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Forester Base covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $108/year less on fuel; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Who should choose the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend?
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend is the stronger pick when you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Subaru Forester Base or 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Base rates 29 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Subaru Forester Base or 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend?
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend produces 181 hp, 1 more than the 2026 Subaru Forester Base at 180 hp. The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend also leads in torque at 190 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Subaru Forester Base runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend uses a 1.5L I3 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Subaru Forester Base bigger than the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Base is 10.6″ longer at 183.3″ vs 172.7″.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Subaru trims, Subaru Forester trims, Ford trims, Ford Bronco Sport trims
The Forester–Bronco Sport Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Forester and Bronco Sport compare. The $1,700 gap is about $30/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 Subaru Forester Base runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend uses a 1.5L I3 Turbo. The 1 hp difference (181 vs 180) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Subaru Forester Base saves roughly $108/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $540. The 2026 Subaru Forester Base wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Living With the Forester vs the Bronco Sport
The 2026 Subaru Forester Base is 10.6″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Subaru Forester Base when you want to keep $1,700 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Forester Base covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend when you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver. At $30/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 Subaru or Ford or any dealership.