Subaru Forester vs Lexus TX

The 2026 Subaru Forester continued to build on its reputation for utility and safety with the introduction of a redesigned Wilderness model. This version was easily recognizable with its lifted suspension, all-terrain tires, exclusive wheel designs, and distinctive anodized copper accents. The Wilderness badges added to its rugged appeal, though the look was polarizing among consumers. Inside, Subaru focused on practicality, equipping the Forester Wilderness with water-resistant artificial leather and all-weather floor mats, making it ideal for adventurous outings. Despite the lack of seat ventilation, the interior was designed for easy cleanup, and the copper accents and Wilderness emblems added a touch of flair.

Subaru offered a range of trim levels for the 2026 Forester, with prices starting at $31,445 and going up to $43,045, including destination charges. The Wilderness model, in particular, came with an optional package that included a digital instrumentation panel, navigation system, premium sound system, and power liftgate, bringing the MSRP to $42,035. Subaru also provided a variety of accessory upgrades to enhance the Forester's utility, such as gear attachments and pet-friendly features. The Forester Wilderness's roof rack, with its 800-pound static load rating, allowed for additional camping gear like a rooftop tent and awning.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a range of trim levels, with the TX 350 available in Base, Premium, Luxury, and F Sport Handling specs, while the 500h hybrid came in F Sport Performance Premium and F Sport Performance Luxury trims. The 550h+ plug-in hybrid was exclusive to the top Luxury trim. Notable updates for the 2026 model included a standard panoramic glass roof for the 550h+ and the introduction of the Matador Red Mica paint option. The 550h+ stood out with its 22-inch wheels, while the large grille and sharp bi-LED headlights maintained the TX's distinctive look. The rear LED lighting and roof spoiler added to its modern aesthetic.

Inside, the TX 550h+ provided luxury features like multi-zone climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and heated second-row seats. The third row was spacious, accommodating adults comfortably, and each seat had its own cupholder and USB-C port. The second-row captain's chairs offered easy access to the third row, though folding them flat required a specific sequence of lever adjustments. The front seats were roomy but could benefit from more thigh support. The TX's cargo space was impressive, with 20.2 cubic feet available with all seats in place, expanding to 97 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The TX also boasted a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds.

The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness was powered by a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. While it lacked the turbocharged option available in the Outback Wilderness, the Forester's lighter weight helped mitigate the power deficit. During testing in the Portland, Oregon area, the Forester's performance was adequate, with the continuously variable transmission (CVT) keeping the engine responsive. The CVT featured eight programmed ratios and paddle shifters, though the shorter final-drive ratio exclusive to the Wilderness model improved low-speed responsiveness off-road. The Forester Wilderness had a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, thanks to improved transmission cooling.

Subaru's Active Torque Split all-wheel-drive system was standard, with X-Mode Dual Mode traction settings for various terrains. The Wilderness model's 17-inch wheels and all-terrain tires, along with increased ground clearance, enhanced its off-road capabilities. The Forester Wilderness tackled challenging trails with ease, though it wasn't particularly fuel-efficient, averaging 22.7 mpg during testing. On pavement, the Forester offered a comfortable ride and secure handling, with a quiet cabin on the highway.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid delivered impressive performance with its 3.5-liter V6 and hybrid system, generating 404 horsepower. The onboard seven-kilowatt charger allowed for a full battery charge in under three hours. The TX offered multiple drive options, including electric-only, hybrid, and gas-only modes, providing flexibility for various driving scenarios. The TX's drive modes—Normal, Eco, Sport, and Custom—allowed drivers to tailor their experience, with Sport mode enhancing throttle sensitivity.

The TX 550h+ provided a smooth and quiet ride, with seamless transitions between gas and electric power. The suspension absorbed bumps and potholes effectively, making it ideal for long road trips. The all-wheel-drive system distributed power between the front and rear wheels, with a Trail Mode for slippery surfaces. The TX's performance was well-suited for both city and highway driving, offering a comfortable and refined experience.

The 2026 Subaru Forester prioritized function over form, with its classic two-box design maximizing passenger and cargo space. The tall windows provided excellent visibility, making driving and maneuvering easy. The Forester Wilderness's heated front seats were comfortable, with the driver's seat offering 10-way power adjustment. However, the lack of a heated steering wheel and rear seats was a drawback. The panoramic sunroof was standard but lacked tint, causing solar heating on sunny days.

Rear seat comfort was good, with ample legroom and foot space, while changes to the rear seatbelts improved safety. The redesigned center console accommodated larger water bottles and provided a handy bin for small items. The Forester Wilderness offered 27.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 69.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Subaru's accessory options further enhanced the Forester's utility.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ offered standard luxury features, including multi-zone climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and heated second-row seats. The third row was spacious, with a recline function and ample headroom. The second-row captain's chairs provided easy access to the third row, though folding them flat required a specific sequence of lever adjustments. The front seats were roomy but could benefit from more thigh support.

The TX's climate controls were mostly on the screen, with physical dials for temperature adjustments. The center console was narrow but deep, with a dual-opening lid that limited access. The TX offered excellent cargo space, with 20.2 cubic feet available with all seats in place, expanding to 97 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The TX's towing capacity was up to 5,000 pounds, making it versatile for various needs.

The 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. However, the lack of a conversational digital voice assistant was a drawback. The voice recognition system was functional for simple commands but struggled with complex queries. The infotainment screen was busy and cluttered, making it challenging to find certain features.

The Forester Wilderness had a standard 180-degree forward view camera system, though the camera's distorted view made it difficult to trust. The test vehicle also included wireless smartphone charging and a Harman Kardon premium audio system, enhancing the overall experience.

The 2026 Lexus TX featured a 14-inch color touchscreen, though some features lacked polish. The steering wheel controls were multi-functional but confusing, with no clear way to switch between functions. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though connectivity issues occasionally arose. The TX required a subscription for in-dash navigation and other features, limiting access to some technology.

The back-up camera was clear and crisp, with an available bird’s-eye view for added convenience. The Advanced Park system handled parking duties in both parallel and perpendicular spaces. The TX offered ample charging options, with seven USB ports and wireless charging, ensuring devices stayed powered on the go.

The 2026 Subaru Forester came equipped with Subaru's EyeSight package, which included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centering assist. Unique features like automatic throttle management and Lead Vehicle Start Alert added to its safety credentials. The Forester Wilderness also had active blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Automatic Emergency Steering.

Emergency Stop Assist with Safe Lane Selection was another notable feature, bringing the SUV to a halt if the driver was unresponsive. The Forester's adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist operated mostly unobtrusively, though occasional overrides were necessary. Subaru improved the rear seatbelts for 2026, aiming for a better safety rating. The 2025 Forester received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.

The 2026 Lexus TX came standard with Safety System+ 3.0, which included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, Lane Tracing Assist, lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition, and Proactive Driving Assist. The latter feature was often turned off due to its tendency to activate at random times. The adaptive cruise control worked well once set up, though it was slow to resume speed in stop-and-go traffic.

The NHTSA hadn't released safety ratings for the 2026 TX 550h+, but the TX 350 and TX 500h both earned five-star ratings. The IIHS gave the TX an "Acceptable" rating for the small overlap front crash test on the driver's side and a "Good" rating for the passenger's side. Driver and passenger injury measures received "Good" scores.