Features & Specs

MSRP

$23,470

$23,885

Drive Type

All-wheel drive

Front-wheel drive

HD radio

Standard

Available on certain trims

Front leg room

43.0 in.

41.5 in.

2017 Subaru Forester vs 2017 Kia Sportage near Philadelphia, PA

The 2017 Subaru Forester and 2017 Kia Sportage are two vehicles that compete against each other in the small crossover SUV segment. Both of the vehicles have earned a reputation for offering a great value, with the Subaru making its mark with such a dynamic powertrain and the Kia for its spacious front seats. For 2017 the Forester has gained even more available features including new driver assistance technology. The Forester also has seen some updates to its exterior styling. The Sportage is entering a new generation for 2017 and has been completely redesigned. If you would like to learn more about these two vehicles and which one is the correct match for you take a look below!

2017 Subaru Forester Power & Handling

Subaru has equipped every Forester model with an all-wheel drive system, which makes the vehicle an amazing option if you want the capability of a dynamic drivetrain without having to pay extra. Furthermore, Subaru is known for producing some of the best drive systems on the market, and the Forester will be able to handle inclement conditions with ease. The standard engine is a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder that produces 170 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. It is linked to a six-speed manual transmission, but it can alternatively be equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Forester has been estimated to offer a combined 28 mpg rating, which is particularly impressive for an all-wheel drive vehicle.

2017 Kia Sportage Power & Handling

The Sportage comes standard with front-wheel drive, though you can choose to equip all-wheel drive as an additional expense.  A 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine is standard and it delivers 181 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. Even though the Kia Sportage received a complete redesign, the SUV still has unimpressive fuel economy ratings. When equipped with all-wheel drive the Sportage LX will have a 22 mpg combined rating. The front-wheel drive Sportage will do slightly better, but still fall below the Forester, with an estimated combined rating of 26 mpg.

2017 Subaru Forester Features & Design

The 2017 Subaru Forester is offered in six great trim levels, and as stated above, each trim features the brand's fantastic all-wheel drive system. The base trim level is called the 2.5i and it will include 17-inch steel wheels, cruise control, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, and 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks. Particularly impressive is the standard Starlink infotainment system which has a 6.2-inch touchscreen along with smartphone integration, and a four-speaker sound system with a USB port, auxiliary audio jack, a CD player, and HD radio. A rearview camera is standard with the Forester, and there are many optional driver assistance features available to enhance safety and security.

2017 Kia Sportage Features & Design

Kia is available in three optional trim levels, with the base model being the LX. The base trim will feature 17-inch alloy wheels, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, and 60/40-split folding rear seatbacks. The Sportage has a 5-inch touchscreen paired to a six-speaker sound system. In addition, the Sportage has satellite radio, a USB port, and an auxiliary input jack. Coming standard for safety is a rearview camera, as well as antilock brakes and front-seat side airbags.

Conclusions

If you have been looking for a fantastic new small crossover that combines a capable and dynamic powertrain with a well-equipped lineup of trims, the 2017 Subaru Forester is an outstanding choice that will appeal to the whole family. The 2017 Kia Sportage is a good vehicle but since it is in its first model year of a new generation, there are some features that are lacking and kinks that need to be worked out. Additionally, it lacks the fuel economy found in the Forester. If you have any questions regarding these models give us a call today at Reedman Toll Subaru!

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