@ Kia Corporation
@ Subaru Corporation
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Kia Sportage vs Subaru Forester – Which car suits you better?

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: Kia Sportage or Subaru Forester?

Sportage @ Kia Corporation

Introduction: A Clash of Titans

In the world of compact SUVs, the Kia Sportage and Subaru Forester stand as two of the most compelling options for drivers looking for a blend of style, performance, and practicality. Each vehicle offers a unique set of features and capabilities, making a direct comparison not just interesting but essential for prospective buyers. This article will delve into their technical specifications, performance metrics, and innovative technologies to help you make an informed choice.

Forester @ Subaru Corporation

Design and Dimensions

The Kia Sportage sports a striking design with assertive lines and a modern aesthetic. Measuring at 4,515 mm in length, 1,865 mm in width, and 1,650 mm in height, it presents a sporty silhouette. On the other hand, the Subaru Forester, slightly larger, ranges from 4,640 mm to 4,670 mm in length, 1,815 mm to 1,830 mm in width, and 1,730 mm in height. This gives the Forester a more rugged appearance, often associated with off-road capabilities.

Sportage @ Kia Corporation

Engine Options and Performance

The Sportage offers a diverse lineup of engines, including petrol, hybrid, and diesel options, boasting power outputs ranging from 136 HP to an impressive 252 HP. Engine types include Diesel MHEV, Petrol MHEV, Full Hybrid, and Plugin Hybrid, providing versatility in fuel efficiency and power delivery. The Sportage’s fuel consumption averages between 5.0 L/100km and 8.1 L/100km, catering to varied driving styles and needs.

In contrast, the Subaru Forester is powered solely by a petrol MHEV engine generating between 136 HP and 150 HP. It exhibits slightly lower torque levels, reaching up to 194 Nm. While the Forester's fuel consumption is less efficient at around 8.1 L/100km, it excels in delivering a reliable all-wheel-drive experience.

Forester @ Subaru Corporation

Transmission and Drive Types

Kia provides multiple transmission options for the Sportage, including manual, dual-clutch automatic, and traditional automatic gearboxes, with both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations available. This variety allows drivers to select a setup that aligns with their driving preferences.

On the flip side, the Subaru Forester comes equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) exclusively paired with its all-wheel-drive system. While it simplifies driving in various conditions, it might not appeal to those who prefer more engagement during gear changes.

Sportage @ Kia Corporation

Acceleration and Handling

The Sportage demonstrates impressive acceleration capabilities, with some variants accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 8.3 seconds. This performance makes it an agile choice for city driving. The Forester, however, takes slightly longer, with a range of 11.8 to 12.2 seconds, reflecting its focus on comfort and stability rather than outright speed.

Forester @ Subaru Corporation

Innovative Features and Safety

In terms of innovations, the Kia Sportage is equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems that enhance safety and driving ease. Features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and a comprehensive infotainment system with smartphone integration are highlights of this SUV.

The Subaru Forester also excels in safety, boasting the brand's renowned EyeSight technology, which includes pre-collision braking and lane departure warnings. With its rugged construction and all-wheel-drive capabilities, the Forester is particularly suitable for those who venture off the beaten path.

Sportage @ Kia Corporation

Interior Comfort and Cargo Space

Inside, the Sportage offers a spacious cabin with comfortable seating for five, along with a trunk capacity that ranges from 526 to 587 liters, depending on the configuration. The design features high-quality materials and a focus on user-friendly technology, appealing to modern drivers.

The Forester, while slightly less spacious at 508 to 509 liters of trunk capacity, compensates with a more utilitarian interior and superior visibility, making it a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts.

Forester @ Subaru Corporation

Final Verdict

Both the Kia Sportage and Subaru Forester have strong compelling cases for various buyers. The Sportage captivates with its performance options, modern design, and array of technological advancements. Meanwhile, the Forester shines when it comes to safety, reliability, and off-road prowess.

Your choice between these two SUVs ultimately depends on your preferences. If you value sporty aesthetics and diverse engine options, the Sportage may be your ideal match. If you require rugged capability with uncompromising safety features, the Forester could be your go-to SUV. Whichever you choose, you’re guaranteed a reliable and engaging driving experience.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Kia Sportage has a to a small extent advantage in terms of price – it starts at 30200 £, while the Subaru Forester costs 34700 £. That’s a price difference of around 4543 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Kia Sportage manages with 5 L and is therefore convincingly more efficient than the Subaru Forester with 8.10 L. The difference is about 3.10 L per 100 km.

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the Kia Sportage has a clearly edge – offering 239 HP compared to 136 HP. That’s roughly 103 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Kia Sportage is significantly quicker – completing the sprint in 7.90 s, while the Subaru Forester takes 12.20 s. That’s about 4.30 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Kia Sportage performs hardly perceptible better – reaching 203 km/h, while the Subaru Forester tops out at 188 km/h. The difference is around 15 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Kia Sportage pulls convincingly stronger with 320 Nm compared to 182 Nm. That’s about 138 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Kia Sportage is barely noticeable lighter – 1552 kg compared to 1693 kg. The difference is around 141 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Kia Sportage offers somewhat more room – 587 L compared to 508 L. That’s a difference of about 79 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Kia Sportage performs slight better – up to 1776 L, which is about 45 L more than the Subaru Forester.

When it comes to payload, Kia Sportage slightly takes the win – 580 kg compared to 492 kg. That’s a difference of about 88 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the Kia Sportage shows itself to be dominates this comparison and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £30,200
Sportage @ Kia Corporation

Kia Sportage

  • Engine Type : Petrol, Full Hybrid, Diesel MHEV
  • Transmission : Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 136 - 239 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 5 - 7.9 L
details

Kia Sportage

5 (1)
rate

The Kia Sportage proves you don't have to choose between style and sensible family motoring, wrapping modern, confident looks around a roomy, well-equipped cabin. It's an easy car to live with — comfortable on daily runs, pleasantly engaging when you want a bit of fun, and kind to your wallet so you can keep smiling at the fuel pump.

details
Kia_Sportage_M22_24 @ Kia Corporation
Kia_Sportage_M22_37 @ Kia Corporation
Kia_Sportage_M22_25 @ Kia Corporation
Kia_Sportage_M22_84 @ Kia Corporation

Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester is a practical all-rounder that quietly does everything right, with roomy comfort, excellent visibility and a real fondness for weekend adventures off the beaten path. It won't set your pulse racing like a sports car, but for buyers who prize reliability, safety and sensible charm, it's a brilliantly steady companion with a cheeky streak.

details
csm_ATP_3588_26cd8d3e91 @ Subaru Corporation
csm_ATP_3846_b1acfd59d3 @ Subaru Corporation
csm_ATP_3796_e529e6d83f @ Subaru Corporation
csm_ATP_3939_15099a6c78 @ Subaru Corporation
csm_ATP_4012_b1f29ad2a5 @ Subaru Corporation

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Sportage @ Kia Corporation
Forester @ Subaru Corporation

Costs and Consumption
Price
30200 - 43900 £
Price
34700 - 42200 £
Consumption L/100km
5 - 7.9 L
Consumption L/100km
8.10 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
132 - 180 g/km
co2
183 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
52 - 54 L
Fuel tank capacity
48 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1552 - 1733 kg
Curb weight
1693 - 1739 kg
Trunk capacity
526 - 587 L
Trunk capacity
508 L
Length
4540 mm
Length
4670 mm
Width
1865 mm
Width
1830 mm
Height
1645 mm
Height
1730 mm
Max trunk capacity
1715 - 1776 L
Max trunk capacity
1679 - 1731 L
Payload
543 - 580 kg
Payload
446 - 492 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol, Full Hybrid, Diesel MHEV
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic, Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
CVT
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
136 - 239 HP
Power HP
136 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.9 - 11.6 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
12.20 s
Max Speed
180 - 203 km/h
Max Speed
188 km/h
Torque
250 - 320 Nm
Torque
182 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
100 - 176 kW
Power kW
100 kW
Engine capacity
1598 cm3
Engine capacity
1995 cm3

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
F, D, E, G
CO2 Efficiency Class
G
Brand
Kia
Brand
Subaru

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Is the Kia Sportage offered with different drivetrains?

The Kia Sportage is offered with Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.