2026 Subaru Forester Sport vs 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Tucson SEL starts at $33,550, $5,345 less. Forester Sport leads with 30 MPG. Tucson SEL makes 187 hp (+7).
| Spec | 2026 Subaru Forester Sport | 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $38,895 +$5,345 | $33,550 Save $5,345 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L Flat-4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 180 hp 7 hp less | 187 hp +7 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT | 8-Spd AT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 29 +4 | 25 4 less |
| Hwy MPG | 33 +1 | 32 1 less |
| Combined MPG | 30 +2 | 28 2 less |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 29.6 cu ft | 38.7 cu ft |
| Screen | 11.6" | 10.25" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Yes | No |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,610 lbs | 3,585 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 108.3" |
| Length | 182.3" | 182.3" |
| Wheels | 18" Black | 17" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | EyeSight | SmartSense |
Forester Sport or Tucson SEL?
Both are competitive. Tucson SEL has a lower entry price, Forester Sport leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport and 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL?
Which gets better gas mileage, the Forester Sport or Tucson SEL?
Should I buy a 2026 Subaru Forester or Hyundai Tucson?
Which is more reliable, the Subaru Forester or Hyundai Tucson?
Is the Subaru Forester bigger than the Hyundai Tucson?
What is the cost of insurance for the Forester Sport vs Tucson SEL?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport?
Who Should Choose the Forester Sport
The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport appeals to buyers who prioritize what Subaru does best: practicality and resale value. At $38,895, it positions itself as the more feature-rich option.
Fuel economy is a clear strength here — 30 combined MPG means lower running costs over the life of the vehicle. Subaru ownership comes with a distinct ownership proposition. Compare more: Forester Base vs Forester Premium, Forester Base vs Forester Sport, Forester Base vs Forester Touring.
Who Should Choose the Tucson SEL
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL is the better fit for buyers who want a lower entry price. With 187 hp, it also delivers stronger performance.
Hyundai's approach to this suv emphasizes value, warranty protection, and technology. If that aligns with your priorities, the Tucson SEL deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $5,345 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Forester Sport is positioned higher, which is driven by significant differences in standard equipment, powertrain, or brand positioning.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the Tucson SEL makes 7 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, a moonroof, larger wheels 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 Subaru and Hyundai 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.