DecodedCarsSubaru Forester vs Subaru Solterra
2026 Subaru Forester vs 2026 Subaru Solterra — two small SUVs compared on efficiency, size, safety and reliability.
The short version
That works out to about $1,250 a year less in fuel for the Subaru Solterra (EPA estimate, 15,000 miles).
Across all model years since 2005, the Subaru Solterra has had fewer recall campaigns (5 vs 39).
The two cars
The 2026 Subaru Forester is a small SUV offered with a 2.5L 4-cyl engine, including a hybrid version and all-wheel drive. It measures about 184 inches long and 72 inches wide on a 105-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 3,580 lb.
The 2026 Subaru Solterra is a small SUV powered by electricity and all-wheel drive. It measures about 185 inches long and 73 inches wide on a 112-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 4,365 lb.
Buying used? The 2024 Forester and the 2024 Solterra have the fewest problems in our data; avoid the 2019 Forester and the 2023 Solterra.
Basics
Efficiency
Performance & space
Safety & reliability
Interest
Green = clearly better. Prices are not included. How we calculate this →
Which one should you choose?
Choose the Subaru Forester if…
- You want more standard driver-assist tech
Choose the Subaru Solterra if…
- You want an EV with more range (288 miles)
- You want more power (up to 233 vs 180 hp)
- You put reliability history first (5 vs 39 recalls since 2005)
Pros & cons of each
2026 Subaru Forester
- Excellent fuel economyUp to 35 MPG combined — 35% better than the average 2026 small SUV (25.9 MPG).
- Hybrid version availableOffered as a hybrid as well as gas.
- Lots of standard safety tech5 of 5 key driver aids standard on the versions we checked.
- "Do not drive" recallCheck that the recall repair was done before buying or driving.
2026 Subaru Solterra
- Lots of standard safety tech5 of 5 key driver aids standard on the versions we checked.
Full 2026 Subaru Forester specs →Full 2026 Subaru Solterra specs →Compare fuel costs for your driving →Compare size & garage fit →