2026 Subaru Forester Base vs 2025 Honda Passport EX-L
$12,405 less and 8 mpg better vs 100 more hp and 84 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $12,405 price gap, 180 vs 280 hp, 29 vs 21 MPG.
The Forester Base leads on $12,405 less, 8 MPG better. The Passport EX-L leads on 100 more hp, 84 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 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 Honda Passport EX-L |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,995 | $42,400 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L flat 4 | 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 280 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 262 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 19 |
| Highway MPG | 33 | 24 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 21 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.6 gal | 19.5 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $2,100/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,510 lbs | 4,236 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 110.9" |
| Length | 183.3" | 189.1" |
| Width | 72.0" | 78.6" |
| Height | 68.1" | 72.2" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Subaru Forester Base and 2025 Honda Passport EX-L?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Base starts at $29,995, $12,405 less than the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L at $42,400. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $219/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 $12,405 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Forester Base covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $552/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L?
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L is the stronger pick when the extra 100 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Subaru Forester Base or 2025 Honda Passport EX-L?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Base rates 29 combined MPG, 8 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Subaru Forester Base or 2025 Honda Passport EX-L?
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L produces 280 hp, 100 more than the 2026 Subaru Forester Base at 180 hp. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L also leads in torque at 262 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Subaru Forester Base runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L uses a 3.5L V6.
Is the 2026 Subaru Forester Base bigger than the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L?
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L is 5.8″ longer at 189.1″ vs 183.3″. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L has a 5.8″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
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, Honda trims, Honda Passport trims
Forester vs Passport: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Subaru Forester Base and 2025 Honda Passport EX-L sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $12,405 gap adds up to $219/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Subaru Forester Base runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L uses a 3.5L V6. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L has 100 more hp (280 vs 180). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L adds 84 more lb-ft of torque (262 vs 178), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Forester vs Passport
The 2026 Subaru Forester Base saves roughly $552/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $2,760. The 2026 Subaru Forester Base wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L has a 5.8″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2025 Honda Passport EX-L weighs 726 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 Subaru Forester Base when you want to keep $12,405 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Forester Base covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L when the extra 100 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $219/month more, the 2025 Honda Passport EX-L needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
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 Honda or any dealership.