Jeep Grand Wagoneer vs Subaru Forester Hybrid

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid presented a fresh design for its sixth-generation model, adopting a more conventional and cohesive look compared to its predecessor. This redesign resulted in a blockier shape, reminiscent of a compact Ford Explorer, which added visual heft but sacrificed some of the Forester's distinctiveness. Despite this, the Forester maintained a rugged appearance with black plastic elements hinting at its off-road capabilities. The hybrid version mirrored the standard model, with only subtle badges distinguishing it. Inside, the Forester Hybrid featured a modernized cabin with a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a digital instrument panel exclusive to the hybrid. While hard plastics were prevalent, soft-touch materials were strategically placed for comfort, and the top trim offered ventilated front seats and heated rear seats.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer underwent a refresh four years into its lifecycle, retaining its upright stance and large windows while introducing a modern illuminated grille inspired by the all-electric Wagoneer S. The new Upland trim added utility with front recovery hooks without compromising elegance. Inside, the Grand Wagoneer boasted a clean design with strong horizontal lines and a 12-inch infotainment screen, complemented by redundant HVAC and audio controls. The seats, though plain in appearance, provided exceptional comfort and adjustability, making long drives enjoyable. Premium materials were used throughout the cabin, with options for Nappa and Palermo leather and a suede headliner. The Grand Wagoneer's fit and finish were highly rated, with solid-feeling components enhancing the overall premium experience.

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-liter flat four-cylinder engine paired with a parallel hybrid system, producing a combined 194 horsepower. This setup surpassed the standard Forester's 180 hp and featured an all-wheel-drive system that promised better traction and consistent off-road performance. While acceleration was adequate, the hybrid transmission sometimes made it feel slower due to the engine's monotone groan at higher speeds. The hybrid system operated smoothly, with seamless transitions between electric and engine power, and the brakes maintained consistency. The Forester Hybrid excelled off-road with its X-Mode drive programming and hill descent control, offering a balanced blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer featured a 3.0-liter Hurricane twin-turbo inline six-cylinder engine, delivering 420 horsepower and 468 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided smooth and effortless power, even for a vehicle weighing around 6,000 pounds. The Grand Wagoneer was also set to receive a range-extended electric powertrain with a 92-kilowatt-hour battery pack and a 3.6-liter V6 engine, offering an estimated 647 hp and 620 lb-ft of torque. Despite its large size, the Grand Wagoneer was surprisingly agile and absorbed road imperfections well. The cabin remained quiet, with minimal tire and wind noise, and the seats offered exceptional comfort for long journeys.

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid offered an unobstructed forward view thanks to its thin front roof pillars, enhancing the driving experience. The front seats provided ample space, and the cockpit felt open and airy. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom and headroom, complemented by a panoramic sunroof. Storage options included a wireless charging pad, cup holders, and door pockets, while rear passengers had access to USB ports and air vents. The Forester Hybrid's cargo space measured 27.5 cubic feet, with a hands-free power liftgate and power remote seatback releases for added convenience.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer excelled as a people mover, with three rows offering ample leg and hip room. The optional bench seat in the second row allowed for up to eight passengers, and the third row comfortably accommodated three people. While using the third row reduced cargo space to 27.9 cubic feet, a long-wheelbase version increased it to 42.6 cubic feet. The Grand Wagoneer could tow up to 10,000 pounds when properly equipped. Features like three-zone automatic climate controls, heated-and-ventilated front seats, and Quadra-Lift air suspension added to its appeal.

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid came equipped with an 11.6-inch vertical infotainment touchscreen featuring built-in navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Starlink infotainment system was praised for its user-friendly interface, with large on-screen buttons and easy-to-navigate menus. Physical buttons flanking the screen allowed for quick temperature adjustments, while the X-Mode off-road drive menu provided simple terrain-related controls. The Forester Hybrid also offered a WiFi hotspot and an 11-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system in higher trims.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer boasted a comprehensive suite of tech features, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12-inch touchscreen display, a 10.25-inch digital cluster, and a wireless phone charger. Higher trims offered a front console cooler, digital rearview mirror, and a 23-speaker McIntosh premium sound system. While the tech generally performed well, the wireless phone charger struggled to charge an iPhone 16 and overheated it. The 12-inch infotainment screen felt small for the vehicle's size, and adjustable pedals were no longer available for 2026.

The 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid earned high safety ratings, with five stars from the NHTSA in most categories and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. It came standard with Subaru's EyeSight suite, including frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. Rear automatic braking and automatic high beams were also standard, with a driver attention monitor on the top trim. The systems functioned smoothly, with the adaptive cruise control being particularly impressive.

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer was equipped with a range of safety features, including lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitors, and rear cross-traffic alert. Available features included automated parking assist and a surround-view camera system. The Grand Wagoneer received mixed safety ratings, with a four-star rating from the NHTSA and a combination of Good and Marginal scores from the IIHS. The surround-view camera system was highly recommended for navigating tight spaces.