2026 Subaru Forester Sport vs 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL
2 mpg better vs $4,040 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 180 vs 187 hp, 28 vs 26 MPG.
The Forester Sport leads on 2 MPG better. The Tucson SEL leads on $4,040 less. 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 Sport | 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,105 | $32,065 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L flat 4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 187 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 24 |
| Highway MPG | 32 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.6 gal | 14.3 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,700/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,611 lbs | 3,640 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 108.5" |
| Length | 183.3" | 182.7" |
| Width | 72.0" | 73.4" |
| Height | 68.1" | 66.3" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| 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 Sport and 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL starts at $32,065, $4,040 less than the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport at $36,105. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $71/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $115/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,040 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport or 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport rates 28 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport or 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL produces 187 hp, 7 more than the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport at 180 hp. The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport bigger than the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport is 0.6″ longer at 183.3″ vs 182.7″. The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL has a 3.4″ 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 Tucson 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 Tucson trims
The Forester–Tucson Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Forester and Tucson compare. The $-4,040 gap adds up to $71/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 Sport runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL uses a 2.5L I4. The 7 hp difference (187 vs 180) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport saves roughly $115/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $575.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $115/year less on fuel. Choose the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL when you want to keep $4,040 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SEL covers your needs.
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.