2022 Subaru Forester vs 2023 Jeep Wrangler

The 2022 Subaru Forester, available in six trim levels, was a practical compact SUV with a starting MSRP of $25,195, reaching up to $35,295 for the Touring model. All-wheel drive was standard, and the vehicle offered a variety of dealer-installed accessories. The Forester Wilderness, tested in Bend, Oregon, featured a rugged design with a suspension lift, 9.2 inches of ground clearance, and distinctive cladding, giving it a unique, albeit polarizing, appearance. Inside, the Forester prioritized functionality with a straightforward cabin design, combining hard plastics and soft surfaces. The 8-inch Starlink infotainment system was user-friendly, though the presence of three display screens was less than ideal.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Wrangler maintained its iconic, rugged design with a boxy shape and removable doors. The Wrangler offered a variety of configurations, including two-door and four-door models, and featured options like the Dual-Door Group for enhanced visibility. The windshield could fold down, and multiple top options allowed for open-air exploration. The Wrangler's design was simple and functional, with unique touches like the American flag on the front fenders. Inside, the Wrangler emphasized practicality with easy-to-clean materials and straightforward controls, though storage space was limited. The Wrangler's cargo area was smaller than some competitors, but the vehicle offered various top configurations for versatility.

The 2022 Subaru Forester was equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive, with the Wilderness model offering a 25% increase in initial torque supply. This allowed the Wilderness to double its towing capacity to 3,000 pounds. The Forester's fuel economy was rated at 26 mpg combined, though real-world testing yielded 25.9 mpg. The vehicle's performance was adequate at sea level but felt sluggish at higher altitudes. The CVT had eight programmed ratios and included a Sport mode for improved response. The Forester's dual-function X-Mode system enhanced off-road capability, and the Wilderness model featured a re-tuned suspension for better ride and handling, with improved ground clearance and approach angles.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler offered a range of engine options, including a standard V6 with 285 horsepower, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 horsepower, and a 3.0-liter Ecodiesel V6 with 260 horsepower. The Wrangler Rubicon 392 featured a 6.4-liter V8 with 470 horsepower, while the Wrangler 4xe was a plug-in hybrid with a 17.3 kWh battery pack. The Wrangler's off-road prowess was enhanced by solid axles, optional differential lockers, and various transfer cases. The Rubicon 392, tested for this review, delivered impressive off-road performance with a crawl ratio of 58:1, but its on-road performance was hampered by inadequate brakes and vague steering. Other Wrangler models had better-suited brakes and steering for their powertrains.

The 2022 Subaru Forester excelled in functionality, with easy entry and exit due to tall seating hip points. The Wilderness model featured water-resistant StarTex upholstery and all-weather floor mats, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The Forester's roof rails were upgraded for 2022, accommodating a three-person roof tent. The interior offered high comfort levels, with ample rear-seat space and convenient storage options. Cargo space measured 28.9 cubic feet without the sunroof and 26.9 cubic feet with it, expanding to 74.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's front seats were comfortable, but rear-seat space was limited, especially in two-door models. Storage for small items was minimal, with a flat dash and small glove box and center console. The Wrangler's cargo space was 72.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, slightly less than some competitors. The vehicle offered various top configurations, including a hard top, soft top, and the Sky One-Touch power soft top. The Wrangler provided ample charging points, with USB-A and USB-C ports and a 115-volt outlet.

The 2022 Subaru Forester came with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and Starlink connected services. Higher trims featured an 8-inch screen with navigation and a Harman Kardon sound system. The Wilderness model included a 180-degree forward-view camera for off-roading. The Forester's PIN Code Access feature allowed for keyless entry after outdoor activities.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler featured a 7-inch touchscreen with the Uconnect infotainment system, while the tested model had an 8.4-inch screen. Uconnect offered off-road pages with detailed information and supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Wrangler included a forward-facing camera and auxiliary switches for aftermarket accessories but lacked advanced tech features like a digital key.

The 2022 Subaru Forester introduced the EyeSight 4.0 safety system, offering improved accuracy and smoother operation. It included features like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The Forester also had a rear-seat reminder, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The NHTSA awarded the Forester a 5-star overall crash-test rating, while the IIHS was expected to maintain its "Top Safety Pick+" rating.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's standard safety features were limited to a rearview camera, electronic roll mitigation, and stability control. Advanced features like blind-spot monitoring and forward collision warning were standard only on the top 392 model or available as options. The IIHS gave the Wrangler mixed ratings, with some trims receiving Poor headlight rankings. The NHTSA rated the Wrangler four out of five stars for frontal crash tests and three out of five for rollover resistance.