The ultimate guide to choosing between the subaru forester and kia seltos
What To Know
- The Forester achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, while the Seltos gets 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway for the 2.
- The Seltos also offers a blind-spot monitoring system as standard, while it is an option on the Forester.
- The Forester is a better choice for buyers who prioritize off-road capability, spaciousness, and safety, while the Seltos is a more affordable and feature-packed option.
When it comes to compact SUVs, two popular contenders emerge: the Subaru Forester and the Kia Seltos. Both vehicles offer a blend of practicality, efficiency, and adventure. But which one is the better choice for you? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Subaru Forester and the Kia Seltos, helping you make an informed decision.
Performance and Fuel Economy
The Subaru Forester is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. The Kia Seltos offers two engine options: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that generates 146 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, and a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that delivers 175 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque.
In terms of fuel economy, the Subaru Forester has a slight edge over the Kia Seltos. The Forester achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, while the Seltos gets 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway for the 2.0-liter engine and 27 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway for the turbocharged engine.
Capability and Handling
The Subaru Forester is renowned for its off-road capabilities. It comes standard with all-wheel drive and an X-Mode system that enhances traction on slippery surfaces. The Kia Seltos, on the other hand, is more suited for urban environments. While it offers all-wheel drive as an option, it lacks the same level of off-road prowess as the Forester.
When it comes to handling, both vehicles offer a comfortable and responsive ride. The Subaru Forester has a slightly softer suspension that absorbs bumps well, while the Kia Seltos feels more agile and sporty.
Interior and Cargo Space
The Subaru Forester offers a spacious and well-equipped interior. It has plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The cargo area is also generous, with 31.1 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats.
The Kia Seltos has a smaller interior than the Forester, but it still provides ample space for most passengers. The cargo area is also smaller, with 26.6 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats.
Technology and Safety Features
The Subaru Forester and the Kia Seltos come with a range of technology and safety features. The Forester features a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Seltos has a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen that supports the same smartphone integration features.
In terms of safety, both vehicles offer a suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Seltos also offers a blind-spot monitoring system as standard, while it is an option on the Forester.
Pricing and Value
The Subaru Forester has a starting price of $26,395 for the base trim. The Kia Seltos starts at $23,990 for the base trim. When comparing similar trim levels, the Forester is slightly more expensive than the Seltos. However, it also offers more standard features and a higher level of off-road capability.
Which One is Right for You?
The Subaru Forester is an excellent choice for buyers who prioritize off-road capabilities, spaciousness, and safety. It is a well-rounded SUV that can handle both daily commutes and outdoor adventures.
The Kia Seltos is a great option for buyers who value affordability, technology, and a sporty driving experience. It offers a comfortable and well-equipped interior, along with a range of advanced features.
Ultimately, the best choice between the Subaru Forester and the Kia Seltos depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you need a capable off-roader with a spacious interior, the Forester is a solid choice. If you prefer a more affordable and feature-packed SUV, the Seltos is a great option.
The Verdict: The Better Choice
Both the Subaru Forester and the Kia Seltos are excellent compact SUVs with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Forester is a better choice for buyers who prioritize off-road capability, spaciousness, and safety, while the Seltos is a more affordable and feature-packed option. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Which SUV has a better fuel economy?
A: The Subaru Forester has a slightly better fuel economy than the Kia Seltos, achieving 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway compared to the Seltos’ 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which SUV is more spacious?
A: The Subaru Forester has a more spacious interior and cargo area than the Kia Seltos. The Forester offers 31.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, while the Seltos has 26.6 cubic feet.
Q: Which SUV has more advanced safety features?
A: Both the Subaru Forester and the Kia Seltos offer a range of advanced safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Seltos offers a blind-spot monitoring system as standard, while it is an option on the Forester.