What To Know
- 5-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, while the turbocharged model gets 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
- 7-liter engine achieves 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, while the Edge ST gets 17 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
- While both the Subaru Forester and Ford Edge are capable of handling light off-roading, the Forester has a clear advantage in this area.
In the realm of midsize SUVs, the Subaru Forester and Ford Edge stand out as two formidable contenders. Both vehicles offer a blend of practicality, performance, and comfort, making them ideal choices for families and adventurers alike. However, when it comes to choosing between these two SUVs, there are key differences to consider. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the strengths and weaknesses of the Subaru Forester vs. Ford Edge, helping you make an informed decision.
Performance: Power and Efficiency
Engine Options
The Subaru Forester comes standard with a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, there’s the optional 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, which delivers 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.
The Ford Edge, on the other hand, offers a wider range of engine options. The base model features a 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine with 250 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque. The mid-level trim includes a 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine with 335 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. The top-of-the-line Edge ST boasts a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine that produces an impressive 400 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque.
Fuel Economy
When it comes to fuel economy, the Subaru Forester has a slight edge over the Ford Edge. The Forester with the 2.5-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, while the turbocharged model gets 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
The Ford Edge with the 2.0-liter engine returns an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The 2.7-liter engine achieves 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, while the Edge ST gets 17 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
Handling and Off-Roading Capabilities
Handling
The Subaru Forester is renowned for its agile handling and responsive steering. Its symmetrical all-wheel drive system provides excellent grip and stability, making it a pleasure to drive on both paved roads and off-road trails.
The Ford Edge also offers a comfortable and composed ride, but its handling is slightly less precise than the Forester’s. However, the Edge’s optional all-wheel drive system with torque vectoring provides improved traction and cornering ability.
Off-Roading Capabilities
While both the Subaru Forester and Ford Edge are capable of handling light off-roading, the Forester has a clear advantage in this area. Its standard all-wheel drive system and X-Mode off-road system provide superior traction and ground clearance, enabling it to tackle rough terrain with ease.
The Ford Edge’s optional all-wheel drive system is also capable, but it lacks the advanced features of the Forester’s X-Mode. As a result, the Edge may struggle in more challenging off-road situations.
Interior: Space, Comfort, and Technology
Interior Space
The Subaru Forester and Ford Edge offer spacious interiors with ample room for passengers and cargo. The Forester provides 39.4 inches of legroom and 39.4 inches of headroom in the front, and 39.4 inches of legroom and 39.4 inches of headroom in the rear.
The Ford Edge offers slightly more legroom in both the front and rear, with 42.6 inches in the front and 40.6 inches in the rear. However, the Edge has less headroom than the Forester, with 39.6 inches in the front and 37.8 inches in the rear.
Comfort
Both the Subaru Forester and Ford Edge offer comfortable and well-appointed interiors. The Forester’s seats are supportive and provide good lumbar support, while the Edge’s seats offer a more plush and luxurious feel.
Technology
The Subaru Forester comes standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Higher trim levels feature an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation and a premium audio system.
The Ford Edge comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The Edge also offers a variety of advanced driver-assist systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.
Safety
Both the Subaru Forester and Ford Edge have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Forester received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS. The Edge received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS.
Price and Trim Levels
Pricing
The Subaru Forester has a starting price of $26,395 for the base model and ranges up to $39,495 for the top-of-the-line Touring trim.
The Ford Edge has a starting price of $36,190 for the base model and ranges up to $54,980 for the top-of-the-line ST trim.
Trim Levels
The Subaru Forester is available in five trim levels: Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Touring.
The Ford Edge is available in four trim levels: SE, SEL, Titanium, and ST.
Which SUV is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best choice between the Subaru Forester and Ford Edge depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, off-road capabilities, and a lower starting price, the Subaru Forester is an excellent option. If you prioritize power, interior space, and advanced technology, the Ford Edge may be a better fit.
Final Thoughts
The Subaru Forester and Ford Edge are both outstanding SUVs that offer a unique blend of features and capabilities. Whether you’re a family looking for a practical and versatile vehicle or an adventurer seeking off-road thrills, one of these SUVs is sure to meet your needs. By carefully considering the differences highlighted in this comparison, you can make an informed decision and choose the SUV that best suits your lifestyle and preferences.
What People Want to Know
Which SUV has better fuel economy?
The Subaru Forester has slightly better fuel economy than the Ford Edge.
Which SUV has more interior space?
The Ford Edge has slightly more legroom than the Subaru Forester, but the Forester has more headroom.
Which SUV is better for off-roading?
The Subaru Forester has better off-road capabilities than the Ford Edge, thanks to its standard all-wheel drive system and X-Mode off-road system.
Which SUV has more advanced technology?
The Ford Edge offers a wider range of advanced driver-assist systems than the Subaru Forester.
Which SUV has a lower starting price?
The Subaru Forester has a lower starting price than the Ford Edge.