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This is the Nissan X-Trail Vs Subaru Forester comparison for 2023. All new for 2023 the X-Trail is Nissan’s best seller in the now ‘medium’ SUV class thanks to the larger size. Subaru claims the Forester is ‘all’ new but in reality look very much like the older model with slightly different dimensions. Like the X-Trail the Forester is Subaru’s highest seller, so how do the ‘new’ models compare and importantly which one is worth buying?
Nissan X-Trail Vs Subaru Forester exterior: The X-Trail is a shared platform with the notably Mitsubishi Outlander but thankfully it is not obvious as all the exterior panels are different. Unfortunately it also shares the platform with the Qashqai which is arguably not a good thing. In comparison the Forester is it’s own thing, a blend of car based wagon and SUV. It is more wagon than SUV and has its own issues . In the end prefer the X-Trail design as it looks like a new model and in some model grades more premium in some model grades than it’s price suggests.
Nissan X-Trail Vs Subaru Forester interior: The interior design and materials of the X-Trail are pretty good. We don’t have any real complaints, however it does look like any other new SUV released in the last few years. In comparison the Forester is pretty good too. In isolation it looks premium for the price but it really hasn’t changed much from the original release years go. It is also hampered by having a car wagon based layout which means it does not feel as spacious as the X-Trail. It has darker interior as well which doesn’t help give the impression of space. Which interior is better? – is more a personal choice hence we see the attraction of both.
Nissan X-Trail Vs Subaru Forester engine and technology: Starting off with the Forester tech and engines review: it’s definitely not a front runner which is clearly a problem. However it once had the leading edge safety and decent engines but in 2023 the Subaru version of a Hybrid is complexity for very little gain and the safety systems are in line with its competitors. The much vaunted AWD is only good if you like travelling in a straight line or have no mechanical sympathy when in off road conditions. It has too much grip when cornering so it essentially looks like you have poor driving skills in the dry and an idiot in the wet. In comparison the X-Trail has a proper Hybrid engine which results in real fuel economy and decent safety systems dependent on model grade and a decent sounding stereo system.
The conclusion and winner to the new Nissan X-Trail Vs Subaru Forester comparison is the X-Trail. The Forester does not rate anymore due to the high fuel consumption and essentially pointless hybrid option. It may not cost as much which is the main selling point and may be enough since SUVs like the new X-Trail are expensive these days. Mind you the wait list for older tech cars are not as lengthy as the hybrid ones. Nothing wrong with the Forester just needs a real tech upgrade not just ‘new’ PR and a styling refresh.
| Nissan X-Trail | Subaru Forester |
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| Engines | |
| 4 Cylinder Petrol (95 Octane) DOHC EFI 2.5 Litre (2488cc) Claimed 135Kw @ 6000RPM Claimed 244Nm @ 3600RPM |
4 Cylinder Petrol 2.5 Litre (2498cc) DOHC EFI VVT Claimed 136Kw @ 5800RPM Claimed 239Nm @ 3400RPM |
| 3 Cylinder Petrol Hybrid (95 Octane) DOHC EFI Turbo Litre (1497cc) Electric motor 150Kw Electric motor 330 Nm Combined 157 Kw Claimed 106Kw @ 4400RPM Claimed 250Nm @ 2400RPM |
4 Cylinder Petrol Hybrid 2 Litre (1995cc) DOHC EFI VVT Claimed 110Kw @ 6000RPM Claimed 196Nm @ 4000RPM |
| Weight | |
| Kerb weight FROM 1536Kg Towing capacity up to 1500Kg |
Kerb weight FROM 1500Kg Towing capacity up to 1800Kg |
| Fuel capacity & consumption | |
| Up to 55 litres 2.5 Petrol 7.4 Lts per 100km AVG (Auto) 1.5 Hybrid 6.1 Lts per 100km AVG (Auto) |
Up to 48 or 63 litres IL4 2.5 Petrol 7.3 litres per 100km IL4 2.0 Petrol Hybrid 6.7 litres per 100km |
| Other specifications | |
| CVT Auto – 7 settings Overall Height/width 1725/1840 Overall Length/wheelbase 4680/2705 4WD system: 2WD or AWD ANCAP Safety: 5/5 |
CVT Auto ‘7 Speed’ Overall height/width 1730/1815 Overall length/wheelbase 4640/2670 4WD system: On demand AWD ANCAP Safety: 5/5 |
| Capability | |
| Angle of: (degrees) Approach xx Departure xx Breakover xx Ground clearance (unloaded) 205 mm Water Fording depth xxx mm Max |
Angle of: (degrees) Approach xx Departure xx Breakover xx Minimum ground clearance 220mm Water Fording depth xxmm Max |
| Performance | |
| – | – |
| Pricing | |
| 2023 $36,500 – 57,500 AUD 2021 $30,650 – 46,115 AUD 2021 $30,650 – 46,500 AUD 2019 $28,490 – 49,790 AUD 2018 $28,490 – $47,490 AUD |
2022 $35,990 -$ 48,990 AUD 2021 $34,889 – 50,000 2016 $27,990 – 45,490 |
| *Always check with the dealer for up to date pricing, specifications, on-road costs, accessories and specials etc.. everything as usual is subject to change! | |