2026 Subaru Forester Base vs 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE
$9,205 less and 8 mpg better vs 111 more hp and 84 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $9,205 price gap, 180 vs 291 hp, 29 vs 21 MPG.
The Forester Base leads on $9,205 less, 8 MPG better. The Palisade SE leads on 111 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 Hyundai Palisade SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,995 | $39,200 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L flat 4 | 3.8L V6 |
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 291 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 262 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-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 | 18.8 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $2,100/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,510 lbs | 4,356 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 114.2" |
| Length | 183.3" | 196.7" |
| Width | 72.0" | 77.8" |
| Height | 68.1" | 68.9" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Subaru Forester Base and 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Base starts at $29,995, $9,205 less than the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE at $39,200. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $162/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 $9,205 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Forester Base covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $552/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE is the stronger pick when the extra 111 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Subaru Forester Base or 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Base rates 29 combined MPG, 8 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Subaru Forester Base or 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE produces 291 hp, 111 more than the 2026 Subaru Forester Base at 180 hp. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE 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 Hyundai Palisade SE uses a 3.8L V6.
Is the 2026 Subaru Forester Base bigger than the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE is 13.4″ longer at 196.7″ vs 183.3″. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE has a 9.1″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Subaru Forester comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Hyundai Palisade offers 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Subaru trims, Subaru Forester trims, Hyundai trims, Hyundai Palisade trims
The Forester–Palisade Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Forester and Palisade compare. The $9,205 gap adds up to $162/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Subaru Forester Base runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE uses a 3.8L V6. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE has 111 more hp (291 vs 180). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE adds 84 more lb-ft of torque (262 vs 178), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
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.
Living With the Forester vs the Palisade
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE is 13.4″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE has a 9.1″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE weighs 846 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Subaru Forester Base when you want to keep $9,205 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Forester Base covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE when the extra 111 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $162/month more, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE 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 Hyundai or any dealership.