Subaru forester wilderness vs. toyota tacoma: battle of the adventure titans
What To Know
- The Toyota Tacoma has a higher towing capacity of 6,800 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,440 pounds.
- The Subaru Forester Wilderness has a modest towing capacity of 3,000 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,223 pounds.
- However, if you need a vehicle with more power, towing capacity, and a rugged interior, the Toyota Tacoma is the better option.
In the realm of off-road enthusiasts, the Subaru Forester Wilderness and Toyota Tacoma stand as two formidable contenders. Both vehicles boast impressive capabilities and loyal followings. However, when it comes to determining which machine reigns supreme, a comprehensive comparison is essential. This blog post delves into the depths of the Subaru Forester Wilderness vs. Toyota Tacoma debate, analyzing their key features, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Capability
Engine Power and Torque:
The Toyota Tacoma takes the lead in power, offering a 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. The Subaru Forester Wilderness comes equipped with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque.
Ground Clearance and Approach/Departure Angles:
The Subaru Forester Wilderness excels in off-road terrain, boasting 9.2 inches of ground clearance and impressive approach and departure angles of 20 and 23 degrees, respectively. The Toyota Tacoma offers a slightly lower ground clearance of 9.4 inches, with approach and departure angles of 32 and 23 degrees.
Four-Wheel Drive Systems:
Both vehicles feature advanced four-wheel drive systems. The Tacoma’s TRD Off-Road package includes an electronic locking rear differential, while the Forester Wilderness offers X-MODE with Hill Descent Control.
Towing and Payload Capacity:
The Toyota Tacoma has a higher towing capacity of 6,800 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,440 pounds. The Subaru Forester Wilderness has a modest towing capacity of 3,000 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,223 pounds.
Comfort and Convenience
Interior Design and Features:
The Subaru Forester Wilderness prioritizes interior comfort with a spacious cabin, heated front seats, and a premium audio system. The Toyota Tacoma offers a more rugged interior with cloth seats and a focus on durability.
Cargo Space and Versatility:
The Subaru Forester Wilderness provides 74.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down, while the Toyota Tacoma offers a more generous 110.1 cubic feet. Both vehicles feature versatile cargo management systems.
Safety Features:
Both vehicles offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, including advanced driver-assist technologies. The Subaru Forester Wilderness comes equipped with EyeSight, while the Toyota Tacoma features Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+.
Off-Road Performance
Trail Handling and Agility:
The Subaru Forester Wilderness impresses with its nimble handling and excellent maneuverability on off-road trails. Its compact size and responsive steering make it ideal for navigating tight spaces. The Toyota Tacoma, with its larger size and more powerful engine, offers greater stability and confidence on rough terrain.
Traction and Grip:
Both vehicles feature all-terrain tires and advanced traction control systems. The Subaru Forester Wilderness utilizes X-MODE with Dual-Function X-MODE, while the Toyota Tacoma benefits from Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control.
Reliability and Value
Reliability:
Both the Subaru Forester Wilderness and Toyota Tacoma have a reputation for reliability. The Tacoma has consistently ranked highly in J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study, while the Forester Wilderness has earned praise for its durability and low maintenance costs.
Value for Money:
The Subaru Forester Wilderness offers a competitive value proposition, starting at around $30,000. The Toyota Tacoma has a higher starting price of around $35,000 but offers more power and towing capacity.
Takeaways: The Ultimate Off-Road Champion
The Subaru Forester Wilderness and Toyota Tacoma are both exceptional off-road vehicles with unique strengths and weaknesses. If you prioritize agility, fuel efficiency, and interior comfort, the Subaru Forester Wilderness is an excellent choice. However, if you need a vehicle with more power, towing capacity, and a rugged interior, the Toyota Tacoma is the better option. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Which vehicle has a better fuel economy?
A: The Subaru Forester Wilderness offers better fuel economy, averaging around 26 mpg combined compared to the Toyota Tacoma‘s 20 mpg combined.
Q: Is the Subaru Forester Wilderness available with a manual transmission?
A: No, the Subaru Forester Wilderness is only available with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Q: Does the Toyota Tacoma come with a sunroof?
A: Yes, the Toyota Tacoma offers a power tilt/slide moonroof as an optional feature.
Q: Which vehicle has a higher resale value?
A: The Toyota Tacoma generally has a higher resale value compared to the Subaru Forester Wilderness.
Q: Is the Subaru Forester Wilderness suitable for overlanding?
A: Yes, the Subaru Forester Wilderness is well-suited for overlanding with its rugged construction, ample cargo space, and advanced off-road capabilities.