What To Know
- The Forester excels in off-road performance and reliability, while the Terra offers a more powerful engine and a larger interior.
- The Subaru Forester has a slightly better fuel economy than the Nissan Terra, with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway compared to 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway for the Terra.
- The Nissan Terra has a higher towing capacity than the Subaru Forester, with a maximum towing capacity of 6,100 pounds compared to 3,500 pounds for the Forester.
The compact SUV segment is fiercely competitive, with automakers vying for market share with feature-packed and capable vehicles. Two notable contenders in this segment are the Subaru Forester and the Nissan Terra. Both vehicles offer a blend of practicality, versatility, and off-road prowess, but they have distinct strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Subaru Forester and the Nissan Terra to help you make an informed decision.
Exterior Design
The Subaru Forester boasts a rugged and adventurous exterior, with a prominent hexagonal grille, sharp headlights, and pronounced wheel arches. The Nissan Terra, on the other hand, exudes a more muscular and imposing stance, featuring a bold V-Motion grille, sleek LED headlights, and a sculpted body.
Interior Comfort and Space
Inside, the Subaru Forester offers a well-appointed and spacious cabin with comfortable seating for five. The Nissan Terra provides ample legroom and headroom, but the third row of seats is cramped and best suited for occasional use. Both vehicles feature high-quality materials and user-friendly infotainment systems.
Powertrain and Performance
The Subaru Forester is powered by a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. The Nissan Terra, on the other hand, is equipped with a 2.5-liter turbodiesel engine that generates 190 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. Both vehicles offer all-wheel drive, providing excellent traction in all driving conditions.
Off-Road Capabilities
The Subaru Forester is renowned for its off-road prowess, thanks to its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and X-Mode, which enhances traction and stability on rough terrain. The Nissan Terra also features a 4WD system, but it lacks the advanced off-road features of the Forester.
Safety Features
Both the Subaru Forester and the Nissan Terra come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including airbags, stability control, and anti-lock brakes. The Forester offers the EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
Reliability and Resale Value
Subaru has a well-established reputation for reliability, and the Forester has consistently ranked highly in reliability surveys. The Nissan Terra is a newer model, but it has received positive feedback for its build quality and durability. In terms of resale value, the Subaru Forester typically holds its value better than the Nissan Terra.
Price and Value
The Subaru Forester has a starting price of around $26,000, while the Nissan Terra starts at around $33,000. The Forester offers a more affordable entry point, but the Terra provides a more powerful engine and a larger interior.
The Verdict
The Subaru Forester and the Nissan Terra are both excellent compact SUVs with unique strengths and weaknesses. The Forester excels in off-road performance and reliability, while the Terra offers a more powerful engine and a larger interior. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize off-road capability and affordability, the Subaru Forester is a great option. If you need a more powerful engine and a larger interior, the Nissan Terra is a suitable choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which vehicle has a better fuel economy?
The Subaru Forester has a slightly better fuel economy than the Nissan Terra, with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway compared to 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway for the Terra.
2. Is the Nissan Terra available with a gasoline engine?
No, the Nissan Terra is only available with a 2.5-liter turbodiesel engine.
3. Which vehicle has a higher towing capacity?
The Nissan Terra has a higher towing capacity than the Subaru Forester, with a maximum towing capacity of 6,100 pounds compared to 3,500 pounds for the Forester.