2026 Subaru Forester Touring vs 2026 GMC Terrain Denali
3 mpg better vs 25 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $205 price gap, 180 vs 175 hp, 28 vs 25 MPG.
The Forester Touring leads on 3 MPG better. The Terrain Denali leads on 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 | 2026 GMC Terrain Denali |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $41,595 | $41,800 |
| 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 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 25 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.6 gal | 15.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,750/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,664 lbs | 3,598 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 107.5" |
| Length | 183.3" | 181.0" |
| Width | 72.0" | 74.5" |
| Height | 68.1" | 66.2" |
| 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 2026 GMC Terrain Denali?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Touring starts at $41,595, $205 less than the 2026 GMC Terrain Denali at $41,800. That gap is small enough that monthly payments are nearly identical. Focus on which vehicle fits your life, not the sticker.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Forester Touring?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Touring is the stronger pick when you want to keep $205 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Forester Touring covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $180/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 GMC Terrain Denali?
The 2026 GMC Terrain Denali is the stronger pick when you prefer the GMC approach to the midsize SUV segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Subaru Forester Touring or 2026 GMC Terrain Denali?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Touring rates 28 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Subaru Forester Touring or 2026 GMC Terrain Denali?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Touring produces 180 hp, 5 more than the 2026 GMC Terrain Denali at 175 hp. The 2026 GMC Terrain Denali also leads in torque at 203 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Subaru Forester Touring runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 GMC Terrain Denali uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Subaru Forester Touring bigger than the 2026 GMC Terrain Denali?
The 2026 Subaru Forester Touring is 2.3″ longer at 183.3″ vs 181.0″. The 2026 GMC Terrain Denali 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, GMC trims, GMC Terrain trims
The Forester–Terrain Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Forester and Terrain compare. The $205 price gap works out to less than $10/month on a typical loan, so the cost difference is negligible. Pick on fit, not on price.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Subaru Forester Touring runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 GMC Terrain Denali 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 $180/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $900. The 2026 Subaru Forester Touring wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Subaru Forester Touring when you want to keep $205 in your pocket and the 2026 Subaru Forester Touring covers your needs. Choose the 2026 GMC Terrain Denali when you prefer the GMC approach to the midsize SUV segment.
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 GMC or any dealership.