2023 Forester vs. 2023 Sportage in Ann Arbor, MI

Compact crossovers are a solid choice for a couple or small family. They offer ample space, comfort, practicality, and versatility for urban duties. They can also undertake a cross-country trip when required. Some, like the 2023 Subaru Forester, can even venture off the tarmac into mild off-roading territory. Others, like the 2023 Kia Sportage, offer hybrid powertrains.

The 2023 Forester is based on the fifth-generation model that debuted in 2018 and got a facelift in 2022. The 2023 Sportage is based on the fifth generation that came out in 2021. Let's see which one is ahead in the best compact crossover race. We'll compare the 2023 Forester vs. Sportage in terms of performance, safety, and interior attributes. If you're hankering for the new Forester, visit the showroom of Subaru of Ann Arbor in Ann Arbor, MI, today.

Interior Comparison

The 2023 Forester and the 2023 Sportage offer passenger cabins for up to five adults. The 2023 Forester leads on passenger space with its 108 cubic foot cabin, a full eight cubic feet more than the 2023 Sportage can provide. They’ve also got spacious trunks and split-folding rear seats for added versatility. Both vehicles feature premium materials and trim in their cabins, but the 2023 Forester’s cabin feels a little better screwed together and more geared to last longer.

The 2023 Forester and 2023 Sportage come with automatic climate control and Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ via their touch-screen infotainment systems. Subaru's StarLink software interface is user-friendly, and you'll get to grips with it quickly. The 2023 Sportage features a digital instrument cluster, but nothing can beat the readability of good old analog dials, which is what the 2023 Forester comes with.

Performance Comparison

The 2023 Forester comes with a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated boxer or flat-four engine that develops 182 horsepower. A CVT gearbox with simulated ratios for manual mode sends power to all four wheels via Subaru’s trademark symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. Subaru's X-Mode drive selector allows the selection of various drive modes that tailor drivetrain parameters accordingly.

While any 2023 Forester can handle rough stuff better than the competition, choose the Wilderness trim level, and Subaru cranks it up a notch or two. The Wilderness trim brings more body cladding, all-terrain tires, a different final drive ratio, a mild suspension lift, and even a stronger roof rack. There’s also an enhanced X-Mode system on offer, with specific modes for snow, deep snow, dirt, and mud. The system also allows more wheel slips to aid in rocking the vehicle back and forth when stuck.

On paper, the 2023 Sportage may beat the 2023 Forester in terms of sheer power, but that’s applicable on smooth tarmac only. Yes, it has multiple options, including a 187-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder, a regular hybrid with 226 horsepower, and a plug-in hybrid with 261 horsepower. It even has an X-Pro off-road oriented trim, but that brings only off-road tires and some off-road modes. Also, not all 2023 Sportage variants are all-wheel-drive; some are front-wheel-drive.

The 2023 Forester can tow up to 1,500 pounds and features a 16.6-gallon fuel tank. The 2023 Sportage comes with a smaller 14.3-gallon fuel tank.

Safety Features Comparison

The 2023 Forester and the 2023 Sportage offer airbags, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. They also come equipped with adaptive cruise control, stability control, child safety locks, and brake assist as standard features.

Find the 2023 Forester in Ann Arbor, MI

The 2023 Sportage may offer more power and look more urban-friendly, but you want the 2023 Forester. It's the better compact crossover. With a sturdy and reliable 2.5-liter engine, its symmetrical all-wheel-drive system is well-equipped to tackle some rough stuff. It's also got a nicer cabin and decent safety features. So, drop by Subaru of Ann Arbor in Ann Arbor, MI, today and test drive the new Forester.