The forester-asx battle: which compact suv reigns supreme for fuel efficiency and off-road prowess?

The Subaru Forester and Mitsubishi ASX are two popular compact SUVs that offer a compelling blend of practicality, performance, and affordability. Whether you’re a family-oriented driver or an adventure enthusiast, these vehicles are worthy contenders. But how do they compare? This comprehensive guide will delve into every aspect of the Subaru Forester vs Mitsubishi ASX debate, helping you make an informed decision.

Performance and Capability

Engine Power 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, or a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine with 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. The Mitsubishi ASX, on the other hand, comes with a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine that produces 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Forester with the naturally aspirated engine achieves an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged Forester gets 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The ASX, meanwhile, delivers 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.

All-Wheel Drive and Off-Road Performance

Both the Subaru Forester and Mitsubishi ASX come standard with all-wheel drive, providing enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions. However, the Forester’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is renowned for its superior handling and off-road capabilities. It continuously monitors wheel slip and distributes power accordingly, ensuring optimal performance on slippery surfaces and uneven terrain.

The ASX’s all-wheel drive system is less advanced but still delivers reliable grip in most situations. If you’re planning on tackling more demanding off-road adventures, the Forester’s superior all-wheel drive system will give you a significant advantage.

Safety Features

Standard and Advanced Safety Technologies

The Subaru Forester and Mitsubishi ASX both offer a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including:

• Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
• Electronic stability control (ESC)
• Traction control
• Hill start assist
• Tire pressure monitoring system

The Forester, however, goes above and beyond with its EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. This advanced system includes:

• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane departure warning
• Automatic emergency braking
• Pre-collision braking system

The ASX does not offer a comparable suite of advanced safety features.

Crash Test Ratings

Both the Subaru Forester and Mitsubishi ASX have earned high crash test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

• NHTSA: The Forester received a 5-star overall safety rating, while the ASX received a 4-star overall safety rating.
• IIHS: The Forester received the Top Safety Pick+ award, while the ASX received the Top Safety Pick award.

Interior and Comfort

Space and Versatility

The Subaru Forester offers a spacious and versatile interior with ample headroom, legroom, and cargo space. The rear seats can be folded down to expand the cargo area, providing plenty of room for luggage, groceries, or outdoor gear.

The Mitsubishi ASX is slightly smaller than the Forester, but it still offers a comfortable and practical interior. The rear seats also fold down to increase cargo capacity.

Interior Materials and Features

The Forester’s interior is well-crafted with high-quality materials and soft-touch surfaces. It comes standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a premium audio system.

The ASX’s interior is more basic, with harder plastics and less premium materials. It comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not available.

Technology and Connectivity

Infotainment Systems and Features

The Subaru Forester’s infotainment system is user-friendly and intuitive. It offers a wide range of features, including navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio, and voice control.

The Mitsubishi ASX’s infotainment system is less advanced and less responsive. It does not offer navigation or satellite radio, and the Bluetooth connectivity is limited.

Smartphone Integration and Connectivity

Both the Subaru Forester and Mitsubishi ASX offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone to the vehicle’s infotainment system.

Pricing and Value

Starting Prices and Trim Levels

The Subaru Forester has a starting price of $25,195 for the base trim level. The Mitsubishi ASX has a starting price of $23,795 for the base trim level.

Both vehicles offer a range of trim levels with varying features and options. The Forester’s top trim level, the Touring, starts at $34,495. The ASX’s top trim level, the SEL, starts at $28,995.

Value for Money

The Subaru Forester offers a higher level of standard features and advanced safety technologies than the Mitsubishi ASX. However, the ASX is slightly more affordable, especially at the lower trim levels.

Ultimately, the best value for money depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you value safety, performance, and a premium interior, the Forester is a better choice. If you’re on a budget and prioritize affordability, the ASX is a solid option.

Key Points: Making the Right Choice

The Subaru Forester and Mitsubishi ASX are both excellent compact SUVs that offer a blend of practicality, performance, and safety. The Forester excels in areas such as safety, off-road capability, and interior quality. The ASX, on the other hand, is more affordable and offers a comfortable interior, albeit with fewer advanced features.

Ultimately, the best choice between the Subaru Forester and Mitsubishi ASX depends on your specific needs. If you prioritize safety, off-road performance, and a premium experience, the Forester is the clear winner. If you’re on a budget and value affordability without sacrificing too much in terms of features, the ASX is a worthy contender.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Subaru Forester with the turbocharged engine has a more powerful engine than the Mitsubishi ASX.

Q: Which vehicle has a better fuel economy?
A: The Subaru Forester with the naturally aspirated engine has a better fuel economy than the Mitsubishi ASX.

Q: Which vehicle has a more advanced all-wheel drive system?
A: The Subaru Forester has a more advanced all-wheel drive system than the Mitsubishi ASX.

Q: Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?
A: The Subaru Forester has a more spacious interior than the Mitsubishi ASX.

Q: Which vehicle has a better safety rating?
A: The Subaru Forester has a better safety rating than the Mitsubishi ASX.