2026 Subaru Forester Touring vs 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV
2 mpg better vs $6,595 less and 25 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 180 vs 175 hp, 28 vs 26 MPG.
The Forester Touring leads on 2 MPG better. The Equinox ACTIV leads on $6,595 less, 25 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 Touring | 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $41,595 | $35,000 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L flat 4 | 1.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 175 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 24 |
| Highway MPG | 32 | 29 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.6 gal | 15.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,700/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,664 lbs | 3,607 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 107.5" |
| Length | 183.3" | 183.2" |
| Width | 72.0" | 74.9" |
| Height | 68.1" | 65.6" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Subaru Forester Touring and 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV?
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV starts at $35,000, $6,595 less than the 2026 Subaru Forester Touring at $41,595. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $116/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Forester Touring?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Touring is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $115/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV?
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV is the stronger pick when you want to keep $6,595 in your pocket and the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Subaru Forester Touring or 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Touring rates 28 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Subaru Forester Touring or 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Touring produces 180 hp, 5 more than the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV at 175 hp. The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV also leads in torque at 203 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Subaru Forester Touring runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Subaru Forester Touring bigger than the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Touring is 0.1″ longer at 183.3″ vs 183.2″. The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV has a 2.4″ 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, Chevrolet trims, Chevrolet Equinox trims
The Forester–Equinox Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Forester and Equinox compare. The $-6,595 gap adds up to $116/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 Touring runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 5 hp difference (180 vs 175) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Subaru Forester Touring 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 Touring when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $115/year less on fuel. Choose the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV when you want to keep $6,595 in your pocket and the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox ACTIV 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 Chevrolet or any dealership.