Subaru forester vs. lincoln corsair: battle of the compact suvs

The compact SUV segment is fiercely contested, with automakers vying to offer the best combination of practicality, performance, and style. Among the top contenders are the Subaru Forester and the Lincoln Corsair. Both vehicles boast impressive features and capabilities, but which one emerges as the ultimate choice? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of the Subaru Forester vs Lincoln Corsair to help you make an informed decision.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency

The Subaru Forester offers a choice of two engines: a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. The Lincoln Corsair, on the other hand, features a single 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that produces 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Subaru Forester with the naturally aspirated engine returns 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged Forester gets 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The Lincoln Corsair, with its more powerful engine, delivers 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.

Handling and Off-Road Capabilities

The Subaru Forester is renowned for its exceptional handling and off-road capabilities. It features a symmetrical all-wheel drive system that provides excellent traction in all conditions. The Forester also boasts a generous ground clearance of 8.7 inches, making it suitable for light off-roading adventures.

The Lincoln Corsair, while not as rugged as the Forester, still offers impressive handling and stability. Its unibody construction and independent suspension system provide a comfortable and responsive ride. However, its lower ground clearance of 6.5 inches limits its off-road capabilities.

Interior Space and Comfort

The Subaru Forester offers a spacious and versatile interior. It has ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers, and the cargo area provides 31.1 cubic feet of space with the rear seats up and 76.1 cubic feet with them folded down.

The Lincoln Corsair boasts a more luxurious interior with premium materials and comfortable seats. It has slightly less interior space than the Forester, with 28.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity behind the rear seats and 57.2 cubic feet with them folded down.

Technology and Features

Both the Subaru Forester and the Lincoln Corsair offer a range of advanced technology features. The Forester comes standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a suite of driver-assist systems. The Corsair features a larger 8-inch touchscreen, a premium audio system, and a comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assist technologies.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority for both automakers. The Subaru Forester has earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Lincoln Corsair has also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

Pricing and Value

The Subaru Forester has a starting price of $26,395 for the base trim and $36,995 for the top-of-the-line Touring trim. The Lincoln Corsair starts at $36,940 for the base trim and goes up to $49,290 for the Grand Touring trim.

In terms of value, the Subaru Forester offers a more affordable starting price and a wider range of trim levels to choose from. The Lincoln Corsair, on the other hand, provides a more luxurious and feature-rich experience at a higher price point.

Which One is Right for You?

The choice between the Subaru Forester and the Lincoln Corsair ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize practicality, fuel efficiency, and off-road capabilities, the Subaru Forester is an excellent choice. If you value luxury, technology, and a spacious interior, the Lincoln Corsair is a compelling option.

Alternatives to Consider

In addition to the Subaru Forester and the Lincoln Corsair, here are a few other compact SUVs worth considering:

• Honda CR-V
• Toyota RAV4
• Mazda CX-5
• Hyundai Santa Fe
• Kia Sorento

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Which SUV has the better fuel economy?
A: The Subaru Forester with the naturally aspirated engine has better fuel economy than the Lincoln Corsair.

Q: Which SUV has more interior space?
A: The Subaru Forester has more interior and cargo space than the Lincoln Corsair.

Q: Which SUV is more affordable?
A: The Subaru Forester has a lower starting price than the Lincoln Corsair.