2026 Subaru Forester Sport vs 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks
On paper, the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport wins on $840 less, 10.6″ longer. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $840 price gap, 180 vs 181 hp, 28 vs 27 MPG.
The Forester Sport leads on $840 less, 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 Sport | 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,105 | $36,945 |
| 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 | 25 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 32 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 27 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.6 gal | 16.0 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,600/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,611 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 Sport and 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport starts at $36,105, $840 less than the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks at $36,945. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $15/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 you want to keep $840 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $56/year less on fuel; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Who should choose the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks?
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks 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 Sport or 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport rates 28 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport or 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks?
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks produces 181 hp, 1 more than the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport at 180 hp. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks also leads in torque at 190 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks uses a 1.5L I3 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport bigger than the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport 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
How the Forester and Bronco Sport Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport ($36,105) and 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks ($36,945) solve similar problems in different ways. The $840 gap is about $15/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: Forester vs Bronco Sport
The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks uses a 1.5L I3 Turbo. The 1 hp difference (181 vs 180) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport saves roughly $56/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $280.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport is 10.6″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport when you want to keep $840 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Forester Sport covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks when you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver. At $15/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.