2026 Subaru Forester Touring vs 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands
5 mpg better and 10.6″ longer vs $1,480 less and 70 more hp. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 180 vs 250 hp, 28 vs 23 MPG.
The Forester Touring leads on 5 MPG better, 10.6″ longer. The Bronco Sport Badlands leads on $1,480 less, 70 more hp. 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 Touring | 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $41,595 | $40,115 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L flat 4 | 2.0L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 250 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 277 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 21 |
| Highway MPG | 32 | 27 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.6 gal | 16.0 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,900/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,664 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 105.1" |
| Length | 183.3" | 172.7" |
| Width | 72.0" | 74.3" |
| Height | 68.1" | 71.4" |
| 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 Touring and 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands?
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands starts at $40,115, $1,480 less than the 2026 Subaru Forester Touring at $41,595. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $26/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 $326/year less on fuel; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Who should choose the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands?
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,480 in your pocket and the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands covers your needs; the extra 70 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Subaru Forester Touring or 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Touring rates 28 combined MPG, 5 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Subaru Forester Touring or 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands?
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands produces 250 hp, 70 more than the 2026 Subaru Forester Touring at 180 hp. The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands also leads in torque at 277 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Subaru Forester Touring runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Subaru Forester Touring bigger than the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Touring 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
Forester vs Bronco Sport: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Subaru Forester Touring and 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $-1,480 gap is about $26/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Subaru Forester Touring runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands has 70 more hp (250 vs 180). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands adds 99 more lb-ft of torque (277 vs 178), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Forester vs Bronco Sport
The 2026 Subaru Forester Touring saves roughly $326/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,630.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2026 Subaru Forester Touring is 10.6″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Subaru Forester Touring when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $326/year less on fuel. Choose the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands when you want to keep $1,480 in your pocket and the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands 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 Ford or any dealership.