2026 Subaru Forester vs. 2026 Ford Bronco Sport: Which SUV Will You Choose?
The compact SUV class is filled with capable options, but two models consistently catch the eye of adventure-ready drivers: the 2026 Subaru Forester vs the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport. Both offer standard all-wheel capability, rugged styling, and practical interiors, but they cater to slightly different lifestyles. If you're choosing between these two adventure-seeking SUVs, this side-by-side comparison will help you determine which one aligns better with your priorities. Test drive the Subaru Forester today at Gillman Subaru San Antonio.
Performance and Capability
The Subaru Forester comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine that delivers 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. The drivetrain is designed for consistent traction and stability, especially on wet, snowy, or unpaved roads. The Wilderness trim offers up to 9.3 inches of ground clearance, making the Subaru Forester a legitimate light off-roader straight from the showroom.
Meanwhile, the Ford Bronco Sport takes a more overtly rugged approach, offering multiple engine options, including a turbocharged variant, along with standard four-wheel drive. Drive modes like Sand and Rock Crawl make it better suited for moderate off-road use. However, this capability is often reserved for upper trims, and its on-road ride can feel stiffer compared to the more balanced performance of the Subaru Forester.
Interior Comfort and Practicality
Inside the new Subaru vehicle, you'll find a spacious and comfortable layout with ample room for both passengers and cargo. The rear seats fold flat for easy loading, and the vehicle offers over 70 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats down. A wide cargo opening and low load height further enhance the vehicle's usability for families, weekend warriors, or pet owners.
The Ford Bronco Sport offers clever interior features like zippered seatback storage, MOLLE straps, and rubberized flooring in some trims, making it practical for gear-heavy outdoor trips. However, the cabin is a bit narrower and cargo space more limited compared to the Subaru Forester, which prioritizes passenger comfort and all-purpose flexibility.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety is a cornerstone of Subaru's reputation, and the 2026 Subaru Forester continues that legacy with standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology. Features include Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Centering, and Pre-Collision Braking. Higher trims add extras like Blind-Spot Detection, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and a 360-degree camera system.
The Ford Bronco Sport also includes several advanced safety features but reserves many of them for its mid and high-tier trims. The base model includes essentials, but to match the comprehensive safety suite of the Subaru Forester, buyers may need to pay more.
See the Difference at Gillman Subaru San Antonio
See the difference in person by visiting your Subaru dealership serving San Antonio, TX. Our team is ready to help you compare trims, schedule a test drive, and explore Subaru financing options that fit your needs.
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**The arrival timeline is an estimate. It may vary due to circumstances beyond Subaru’s or the retailer’s control.
