Comparison - Subaru Forester Premium 2017 - vs - Ford Explorer Sport 2017

General

Other Names:

Also called:

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Make: 
Average Price: 
26,437
Updated: 
02 Dec 2016
45,355
Updated: 
30 Nov 2016
Car Type: 
SUV
SUV
Drive Type: 
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Year: 
2017
2017
Total Seating: 
5
7
Transmission: 
Continuously Variable-speed Automatic
6-speed Shiftable Automatic
Bluetooth: 
yes
yes
Heated seats: 
no
no
Navigation: 
no
yes
Doors: 
5
5
Fuel Tank Capacity: 
15.90gals
18.60gals
Exterior Colors: 
Color: 
Crystal Black Silica
#3D393A
Crystal White Pearl
#E7E7E7
Dark Gray Metallic
#333333
Ice Silver Metallic
#686672
Jasmine Green Metallic
#777581
Quartz Blue Pearl
#365890
Venetian Red Pearl
#882A3A
Color: 
Blue Jeans Metallic
#486478
Ingot Silver Metallic
#C4C4C8
Oxford White
#E4E4E4
Ruby Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat
#8E1C26
Shadow Black
#242424

Expert Reviews

Expert reviews: 

The 2017 Subaru Forester ranks 8 out of 18 Compact SUVs. The 2017 Subaru Forester offers one of the lowest starting prices in the class, a competitive list of features, and the rarity of standard all-wheel drive. These make it a triple threat in the highly competitive compact SUV class.

Pros
Highest cargo capacity in the class
Roomy back seats
Standard all-wheel drive
Lots of available safety features

Cons
Bland interior styling
Below-average fuel economy

By: 
usnews.com

One of the best small SUVs, the 2017 Subaru Forester is a good value, with remarkable interior volume, thrifty fuel economy, and top safety scores.
The Subaru Forester is a compact utility vehicle with wagon-like practicality and standard all-wheel drive. It has the capabilities of a crossover, the ride and handling of a car, and plenty of all-weather security and even off-road capability.

Pros
Good ride, enjoyable driving
Top-notch safety scores, systems
Spacious cabin with super visibility
Among the best CVTs around
Turbo adds speedy performance

Cons
Shift paddles only on turbo
No manual offered with turbo
Priciest models not all that premium

By: 
thecarconnection.com

The 2017 Forester receives numerous updates, starting with wider feature availability, additional noise insulation and quicker steering response. The enhanced EyeSight safety system now has lane departure intervention and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Automatic high-beam headlight control is newly available, as are adaptive LED headlights and reverse automatic braking. Styling revisions include new headlights and taillights, plus a freshened grille and front end.

Pros
Airy interior with plenty of room for adults in both seating rows
Impressive fuel economy for an all-wheel-drive crossover
Optional turbocharged engine provides spirited acceleration
Above-average off-road ability

Cons
CVT may seem less responsive and refined than a traditional automatic
Doesn't feel as sporty around turns as some rivals
Cabin design and materials aren't especially noteworthy
Maximum tow rating isn't particularly robust

By: 
edmunds.com

Available with plenty of features and three distinctly different engines, the 2017 Ford Explorer has a lot to offer if you're shopping for a three-row crossover SUV. Its outstanding quietness and quality cabin trimmings elevate this practical do-all crossover to the front of the segment.

A household name among American carbuyers, the Ford Explorer has evolved from its long-ago roots as a body-on-frame SUV into the comprehensively modern three-row crossover it is today. Depending on trim level and options (and how deep your pockets are), it can be downright luxurious. Our preference for the Sport arises from the "drives big" nature of other non-Sport trim levels — though comfortable, the soft suspension and numb steering of non-Sport models make their driving experience oddly ponderous.

Aside from that, though, there is an awful lot to credit to the Explorer. You can configure an Explorer that keeps things relatively basic, or you can go all-in on luxury. Versatility is a strong suit, too. You have your choice of three engines. You can get it with a second-row bench or captain's chairs and option the second and/or third row with power-folding functionality. Lots of cargo space is standard.

Pros
Plenty of high-tech features that are easy to use
Optional turbocharged V6 engine delivers plentiful power
Cabin is quiet and comfortable on the highway
Cargo space is generous behind the third row

Cons
Depending on trim level, feels big and ponderous from behind the wheel
Legroom in the second and third rows is subpar

By: 
edmunds.com

The 2017 Ford Explorer adds a sport appearance package and Sync 3, both of which are important to today's SUV buyers.

The 2017 Ford Explorer gets a sport appearance package on lower trims, which is what Explorer buyers are looking for nowadays.

The Ford Explorer's wide offering of powertrains is an asset, we like every step along the way.

The Explorer has a good mix of comfortable seating, versatility, and space for families.

The Explorer scores well on federal tests, but IIHS tests are a different story.

A Sport Appearance Package is here now for buyers who want their 2017 Ford Explorers to look the part.

The 2017 Ford Explorer returns decent economy for a three-row hauler—mostly.

Pros
A nicely executed do-it-all
Excellent ride and handling for an SUV
Fuel-efficient—on paper
Sync 3 is better ...
Sport appearance package is much appreciated

Cons
but Sync 3 still has issues
Real-world mileage question
Platinum prices are in line with luxury vehicles

By: 
thecarconnection.com

The 2017 Ford Explorer will feature a new XLT Sport Appearance package, as well as interior enhancements. A hands-free liftgate will be standard on Sport models, while Sync 3 will be offered on the XLT and come standard on the Limited, Sport, and Platinum models.

The 2017 Ford Explorer SUV offers three-row seating, can hold up to seven passengers, and is offered in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations.

The 2017 Ford Explorer comes standard with LED low-beam headlights on every trim.

The Ford Explorer was refreshed for 2016, sporting a new look and upgrades to the engine and feature content. The 2017 Explorer doesn’t change much, but adds a new sport package to the XLT trim, as well as additional safety features.

Pros
New XLT Sport Appearance package
Well-appointed Platinum trim

Cons
Cramped third-row seating
Slow acceleration on lower trim models

By: 
motortrend.com

With the exception of a new Sport Appearance package for the XLT trim, the 2017 Ford Explorer SUV carries over unchanged.

When it comes to horsepower, Ford’s 7-passenger Explorer SUV for 2017 delivers at every level. From the standard 290-horsepower V6 to the fuel-efficient 280-horsepower turbo 4-cylinder available in the base,...

XLT and Limited trims, Ford places choice front and center. Need more “oomph”? Try out the Sport and Platinum trim’s 365-horsepower twin-turbocharged V6. Capable for sure, the Explorer delivers excellent passing and pulling power and its heavily weighted steering and taut suspension give this big SUV impressive cornering ability, although its high beltline and massive front bumper make maneuvers in tight quarters a bit harrowing. Ford has done an excellent job keeping road, engine and wind noise out of the cabin, and all but the rearmost occupants felt the seating was both comfortable and supportive. The Explorer’s adaptive cruise control works well, but we wish it offered fully autonomous braking like the Honda Pilot, not just collision warning.

Pros
If you’re looking for a family SUV with advanced electronics and safety features, plus a wide range of engines and option choices, Ford’s midsize SUV for 2017 is hard to beat. The Explorer’s advanced all-wheel-drive (AWD) system makes it more off-road capable than a Honda Pilot or Mazda CX-9.

Cons
If you’re looking for something that’s easy to maneuver and park, and you don’t need a 3rd-row seat, a smaller SUV like the Ford Edge, Nissan Murano or Jeep Grand Cherokee makes a better choice. The Jeep also bests the Explorer both off-road and in towing (7,800 pounds vs. 5,000).

By: 
kbb.com

Fuel

Fuel Type: 
Regular Unleaded
Regular Unleaded
Fuel Economy City USA: 
26.00mpg
16.00mpg
Fuel Economy HWY: 
32.00mpg
22.00mpg
Engine type: 
Petrol/Gas
Petrol/Gas

Engine and Performance

Valves: 
16
24
Cylinders: 
4
Flat
6
V
Engine Size/Displacement: 
2.50L
3.50L
Torque: 
174ft-lbs
at 4 100rpm
350ft-lbs
at 3 500rpm
Horsepower: 
170hp
at 5 800rpm
365hp
at 5 500rpm
Cam Type: 
Double overhead cam (DOHC)
Double overhead cam (DOHC)
Turning Circle: 
34.80Feet
40.00Feet

Convenience

Cruise Control: 
yes
yes
Door Pockets: 
yes
yes
Cupholders: 
yes
yes
Overhead console: 
yes
yes
Seatback Storage: 
yes
yes
Power Steering: 
yes
yes
Parking sensors: 
no
yes
Steering Wheel Tilt: 
yes
yes
Telescopic steering wheel: 
yes
yes
Rear View Camera: 
yes
yes
Front view Camera: 
no
yes
Side view Camera: 
no
no
On steering wheel: 
Audio and cruise controls on steering wheel
Transmission, cruise and audio controls on steering wheel
More in Convenience: 
Destination Download*
Universal remote transmitter (for garage door, security system, etc.)
Destination guidance (also Turn-by-Turn Navigation)*
Adjustable pedals

Exterior Dimensions

Length: 
180.90in
198.30in
Width: 
70.70in
78.90in
Height: 
68.20in
71.00in
Ground Clearance: 
8.70in
7.80in
Wheel Base: 
103.90in
112.80in

Interior Dimensions

Front Head Room: 
40.00
41.40
Rear Head Room: 
37.50
40.60
Front Leg Room: 
43.00in
42.90in
Rear leg room: 
38.00in
39.50in
Front Hip Room: 
53.90in
57.30in
Front Shoulder Room: 
57.00in
61.50in
Rear Hip Room: 
53.00in
56.80in
Rear Shoulder room: 
56.50in
61.00in

Weights and capacites

Cargo Capacity: 
68.50cu.ft
81.70cu.ft
Maximum Towing Capacity un-break: 
1500lbs
5000lbs
Cargo Capacity with Seats in Place: 
31.50cu.ft
21.00cu.ft
Angle of Approach: 
23.00degrees
15.60degrees
Angle of Departure: 
25.00degrees
20.90degrees
Curb Weight: 
4901.00lbs

Instruments

External Temperature Display: 
yes
yes
Clock: 
yes
yes
Trip computer: 
yes
yes
Techometer: 
yes
yes
Compass: 
no
yes

Power Features

Power windows: 
yes
yes
Remote Keyless doors: 
yes
yes
More Power Features: 
Heated mirrors
2 one-touch power windows
2 one-touch power windows
Heated mirrors

Seats

Rear Seat Collapsible: 
yes
yes
Front Seats Features: 
8 -way power driver seat
Cloth
Height adjustable passenger seat
Bucket front seats
Height adjustable driver seat
Driver seat with power adjustable lumbar support
8 -way power driver seat
Bucket front seats
Height adjustable passenger seat
Multi-level heating driver seat
Driver seat with power adjustable lumbar support
8 -way power passenger seat
Height adjustable driver seat
Leather
Multi-level heating passenger seat
Passenger seat with power adjustable lumbar support
Rear Seats Features: 
Reclining rear seats
Folding center armrest
Split-folding rear seatback
Folding center armrest
Rear ventilation ducts with fan control
Power folding split-bench third row seats
Split-folding rear seatback

Suspension

Front Suspension: 
Front stabilizer bar
Front stabilizer bar
Rear Suspension: 
Rear stabilizer bar
Rear stabilizer bar
Suspension Info: 
Four-wheel independent suspension
Four-wheel independent suspension

Comfort

Interior air Filtration: 
yes
yes
Climate Control: 
yes
yes
More Comfort Features: 
Dual illuminating vanity mirrors
Dual illuminating vanity mirrors
Leather steering wheel
Turn signal in mirrors
Heated steering wheel
Front and rear air conditioning

Entertainment

DVD player: 
no
no
AM/FM Radio: 
yes
yes
Satellite radio: 
no
yes
Video monitor: 
no
yes
More Entertainment: 
6 total speakers
Auxiliary audio input and USB with external media control
USB connection
USB connection
Auxiliary audio input and USB with external media control
Memory card slot
Surround audio surround audio (discrete)
Sony premium brand speakers
390 watts stero output
1 subwoofer(s)
12 total speakers
6 Months of provided satellite radio service
Sony premium brand stero system

Exterior Features

Sunroof: 
yes
no
Rear defogger: 
yes
yes
More in Glass and Roof: 
Intermittent rear wiper
Variable intermittent wipers
Roof rack
Power glass sunroof
Privacy glass
Rear window wiper
Variable intermittent wipers
Roof rack
Alloy Wheels: 
yes
yes
Wheel size: 
17 x 7.0
20 in
Wheels more: 
Inside mounted spare tire
Temporary spare tire
Null spare wheel
All season tires
Underbody mounted spare tire
All season tires
Null spare wheel
Temporary spare tire
Wheel Dimensions: 
Width: 
225.00millimeters
Aspect Ratio: 
60
Width: 
255.00millimeters
Aspect Ratio: 
50
Diameter: 
R20

Safety Features

ABS: 
yes
yes
Front head airbags: 
yes
yes
Rear head airbags: 
yes
yes
Dual front side-mounted airbags: 
yes
yes
Emergency braking assist: 
yes
yes
Traction control: 
yes
yes
Child seat anchors: 
yes
yes
Front brakes: 
Front ventilated disc brakes
Front ventilated disc brakes
Stability control: 
yes
yes
Rear brakes: 
rear ventilated disc brakes
rear ventilated disc brakes
Rear door child safety locks: 
yes
yes
Daytime running lights: 
yes
yes
Engine immobilizer: 
yes
yes
Front fog lights: 
yes
yes
Dusk sensing headlamps: 
no
yes
Auto delay off headlamps: 
no
yes
Front headrests: 
yes
yes
Rear headrests: 
yes
yes
Tire pressure monitoring: 
yes
yes
More Safety Features: 
Security System Shock Sensor
Rear center 3-point belt
Passenger airbag occupant sensing deactivation
Post-collision safety system
Remote anti-theft alarm system
Post-collision safety system
Airbag Deployment Notification*
BLIS Plus Inflatable Rear Seatbelt Package
Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning w/Brake Support
Rear height adjustable headrests
Rear center 3-point belt
Passenger airbag occupant sensing deactivation
Remote anti-theft alarm system
Dual front with head protection chambers side-mounted airbags

Options

Packages: 
Rugged Package #1
All-Weather Package + EyeSight + Blind Spot Detection/Rear Cross Traffic Alert + Power Rear Gate
Popular Package #1A
Protection Package #1
Standard Model - 2.5i Premium CVT
All-Weather Package
All-Weather Package + EyeSight + Blind Spot Detection/Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Popular Package #2A
Equipment Group 401A
Equipment Group 400A
Exterior Options: 
Wheel Lock Kit (Alloy Wheels)
Body Side Molding Kit Ice Silver Metallic
Wheel Arch Moldings
Exhaust Tip
Body Side Molding Kit Dark Gray Metallic
Fog Lamp Kit - Gray Interior
Door Edge Guard Crystal Black Silica
Door Edge Guard Ice Silver Metallic
Door Edge Guard Crystal White Pearl
Door Edge Guard Jasmine Green
Splash Guards
Rear Bumper Cover
Door Edge Guard Quartz Blue Pearl
Door Edge Guard Venetian Red Pearl
Front Bumper Underguard
Cross Bar Set - Aero
Sport Grille
Trailer Hitch
Body Side Molding Kit Jasmine Green
Door Edge Guard Dark Gray Metallic
Rear Bumper Underguard
Body Side Molding Kit Venetian Red
Body Side Molding Kit Crystal Black Silica
Body Side Molding Kit Quartz Blue Pearl
Fog Lamp Kit - Black Interior
Body Side Molding Kit Crystal White Pearl
Roof Rack Crossbars
Running Boards
P265/45ZR20 Summer Only Tires
Splash Guards
Dual Panel Moonroof
License Plate Bracket
Rear Bumper Protector
Wheel Lock Kit
Interior Options: 
Cargo Tray
Compartment Separator
Cargo Net Rear Seat Back
Sunshade
Cargo Cover (Power Rear Gate)
Cargo Net Side
Interior & Exterior Auto Dimming Mirror w/ Homelink & Approach Lighting
Auto-Dimming Mirror w/Compass
Exterior Auto-Dimming Mirror w/Approach Lighting
Cargo Net Rear
Tweeter Kit
Rear Seat Back Protector
110 Power Outlet Kit
All-Weather Floor Mats
STI Leather Shift Knob CVT
Cargo Cover (Manual Rear Gate)
Footwell Illumination Kit - Blue
Kicker Audio Upgrade Package
Auto-Dimming Mirror w/Compass and Homelink
Exterior Auto-Dimming Mirror w/Approach Lighting & Blind Spot Detection
Speaker Kit
Auto-Dimming Mirror w/Compass and Homelink for Eyesight Models
Auto-Dimming Mirror w/Compass for Eyesight Models
Interior & Exterior Auto Dimming Mirror w/Approach Lighting
2nd Row Bucket Seats w/Power-Assist Fold
Cargo Shade
Smokers Kit w/Element
Deep Tray-Style All-Weather Floor Mats
Rear Cargo Well Protector
DVD Headrests
2nd Row Console

Colors

Interior Colors: 
Color: 
Black, cloth
#343436
Gray, cloth
#A9A6A3
Color: 
Medium Light Camel, cloth
#9A9789