2023 Subaru Forester vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered a diverse lineup with eight models, ranging from $33,745 to $54,495, excluding a $1,495 destination charge. The lineup included the rugged Timberline and luxurious King Ranch trims, with the new ST-Line adding a sporty flair to the XLT version. The King Ranch model, tested with 4WD, Rapid Red paint, and a Premium Technology package, reached an MSRP of $59,880. Despite its high price, the King Ranch's visual distinction was subtle, marked by emblems, shiny 20-inch wheels, and quad exhaust outlets. The Explorer's design, based on a rear-drive platform, featured a long hood, short front overhang, and a rakish roofline, creating a taut, athletic appearance. Inside, the King Ranch boasted exclusive Del Rio leather seating with lasso-perforated inserts, though the cabin mixed quality with some questionable materials.

The 2023 Subaru Forester maintained its functional design, resembling previous models, especially in Cascade Green Silica paint. It came in six trims, from Base to Touring, priced between $26,395 and $36,495, excluding a $1,225 destination charge. The Touring trim, tested without options, had an MSRP of $37,720. The Forester's boxy design, reminiscent of a smaller Subaru Ascent, featured flared fenders and pincer-shaped lighting. The Touring trim stood out with 18-inch alloy wheels and satin chrome trim. Inside, it offered Saddle Brown leather, metallic accents, and a traditional Subaru layout with analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen. Despite abundant hard plastic, the cabin was easy to clean. The Forester's busy appearance was balanced by a practical control layout, emphasizing functionality over aesthetics.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains. The base engine, a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder, produced 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and RWD, with 4WD optional. It towed up to 5,300 pounds and achieved 24 mpg in combined driving. A hybrid option, available for the Limited and Platinum trims, combined a 3.3-liter V6 with an electric motor, delivering 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque, towing 5,000 pounds, and achieving 27 mpg. The top-tier engine, a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6, generated 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, standard on ST, Platinum, and King Ranch trims, towing 5,600 pounds with 21 mpg. The King Ranch 4WD test vehicle averaged 20.6 mpg. The Explorer's ride was robust, handling off-road terrain with ease, despite its 7.9 inches of ground clearance. The Timberline model offered 8.7 inches of clearance for better off-roading. The Explorer's athletic handling made it engaging to drive, especially in the sport-tuned ST trim.

The 2023 Subaru Forester featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, powering all four wheels through a CVT with eight programmed ratios. The SI-Drive system offered a Sport mode for quicker responses. Most trims included X-Mode for off-road traction, with additional settings in higher trims. The Forester Wilderness trim enhanced off-road capability. The Touring trim, tested in challenging weather, handled flooded roads and muddy trails confidently. On dry roads, the Forester felt livelier than the heavier Outback, though the engine remained merely adequate. The Forester's driving dynamics were excellent, with light steering, responsive brakes, and well-tuned suspension. It lacked the lateral rocking common in other SUVs, offering a firm, communicative ride. The Forester returned 25.9 mpg, below the EPA rating of 29 mpg. A turbocharged engine or hybrid option would enhance performance and efficiency.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided comfort for families of four, with a second-row bench seat accommodating five occasionally. The third-row seat was suitable only for children due to the rear-drive platform and low roofline. The King Ranch model featured triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain's chairs. Massaging front seats were standard, with 14-way power adjustment for the driver and eight-way for the passenger. The front seats were exceptionally comfortable, while the third-row seat lacked accessibility and legroom for adults. Interior storage was limited, with missed opportunities for additional space. The King Ranch had a hands-free power liftgate, revealing 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 87.8 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2023 Subaru Forester prioritized function over form, offering practicality and simplicity. The Premium trim included a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable driver's seat, and heated front seats. Higher trims featured StarTex or genuine leather, dual-zone climate control, and heated rear seats. The Forester's visibility was excellent, with tall glass and thin pillars. Entry and exit were effortless. The panoramic sunroof lacked sufficient tint, causing solar heating. The Touring trim's front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats lacked support. The Forester's doors were well-sealed, preventing water intrusion. Interior storage was plentiful, with multiple pockets and cubbies. The cargo area, accessible via a power liftgate, offered 26.9 cubic feet of space, expandable to 69.1 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2022 Ford Explorer featured two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreens. The smaller screen integrated well, while the larger one appeared as an afterthought. The King Ranch model included FordPass Connect, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bang and Olufsen sound system. The voice recognition system was outdated, struggling with navigation and commands. The Explorer needed an upgrade to Sync 4 for improved functionality. Additional tech included a 12.3-inch digital display and Active Park Assist 2.0. A rear-seat entertainment system was available.

The 2023 Subaru Forester's technology appeared outdated but was user-friendly. The Base trim had a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Premium trim added satellite radio and Starlink services. An 8-inch touchscreen with navigation and a Harman Kardon audio system was available. The Forester's interface was simple, with separate climate controls and easy-to-use knobs. The voice-recognition system was ineffective, struggling with basic commands. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were recommended for navigation and media.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. The NHTSA had not published complete crash-test ratings, but the previous model received five stars overall. The Explorer included Ford Co-Pilot360, with features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The system operated smoothly, though it occasionally over-braked in traffic. Lane-centering assist disengaged on sharp curves but handled lane changes well.

The 2023 Subaru Forester introduced next-generation EyeSight technology with improved cameras and software. Models with blind-spot monitoring included Automatic Emergency Steering. Wilderness and Touring trims had Rear Automatic Braking, which could be overly sensitive. The Touring trim featured DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation. The Forester's EyeSight system performed well, though it received a lower Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS due to new testing criteria. The NHTSA awarded it five stars overall.