Fuel efficiency face-off: subaru forester vs. kona, who wins?
What To Know
- The Forester with all-wheel drive achieves an EPA-rated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, while the Kona with front-wheel drive achieves 29 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
- The Forester is the better choice for those who prioritize off-road capability, while the Kona is a more affordable option with a wider range of engine choices.
- Both the Subaru Forester and Hyundai Kona offer comprehensive suites of safety features, with the Forester having a slight edge in terms of standard features.
When it comes to compact SUVs, the Subaru Forester and Hyundai Kona stand out as two of the most popular options in the market. With their rugged capabilities, spacious interiors, and advanced features, both vehicles offer a compelling package for adventure-seekers and families alike. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Subaru Forester and Hyundai Kona, helping you make an informed decision about which SUV best suits your needs.
Performance and Fuel Economy
The Subaru Forester comes standard with a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. The Hyundai Kona offers two engine options: a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder with 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, or a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder with 175 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque.
In terms of fuel economy, the Forester has a slight edge over the Kona. The Forester with all-wheel drive achieves an EPA-rated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, while the Kona with front-wheel drive achieves 29 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
Capability and Off-Roading
The Subaru Forester has a long-standing reputation for its off-road prowess. Its standard all-wheel drive system and 8.7 inches of ground clearance provide excellent traction and stability on rough terrain. The Kona, on the other hand, offers front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option. It has a ground clearance of 6.7 inches, which is lower than the Forester but still suitable for light off-roading.
Interior Space and Comfort
Both the Forester and Kona offer spacious interiors for their size. The Forester has a slightly larger cabin, with 108.3 cubic feet of passenger volume compared to 105.4 cubic feet in the Kona. Both vehicles offer comfortable seating for up to five passengers, with ample legroom and headroom.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Safety is a top priority for both Subaru and Hyundai. The Forester comes standard with a suite of driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Kona also offers a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, lane keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring.
Technology and Connectivity
The Forester and Kona are both well-equipped with technology and connectivity features. The Forester comes standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while the Kona offers a larger 8-inch touchscreen. Both systems support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and offer navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and voice control.
Pricing and Value
The Subaru Forester has a starting price of $25,195, while the Hyundai Kona starts at $21,150. The Kona offers a more affordable entry point, but the Forester offers more standard features and a higher level of off-road capability.
Which SUV is Right for You?
The Subaru Forester and Hyundai Kona are both excellent compact SUVs with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Forester is the better choice for those who prioritize off-road capability, while the Kona is a more affordable option with a wider range of engine choices. Ultimately, the best SUV for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
What You Need to Know
1. Which SUV has better fuel economy?
The Subaru Forester has slightly better fuel economy than the Hyundai Kona, especially in all-wheel drive configurations.
2. Which SUV is more spacious?
The Subaru Forester has a slightly larger cabin than the Hyundai Kona, offering more passenger and cargo space.
3. Which SUV is better for off-roading?
The Subaru Forester has a standard all-wheel drive system and higher ground clearance, making it better suited for off-road adventures.
4. Which SUV has more safety features?
Both the Subaru Forester and Hyundai Kona offer comprehensive suites of safety features, with the Forester having a slight edge in terms of standard features.
5. Which SUV is more affordable?
The Hyundai Kona has a lower starting price than the Subaru Forester, making it a more affordable option for budget-conscious buyers.