When you're looking for that perfect compact SUV, there's a lot of options out there that can make the journey overwhelming. That's why we at Shingle Springs Subaru here in Shingle Springs, California, want to simplify the experience for you by creating this guide on the design, performance, technology, safety, and overall value of the 2025 Subaru Forester. This sleek and modernly styled, but also versatile SUV offers adaptability for city drivers and explorers alike, and provides ample cargo and passenger space to hit the road in comfort. The Forester also comes in a wide variety of colors to give it that added personal touch. But we don't stop at just exploring the features of the 2025 Forester, we also check out how it stacks up against the competition. The 2025 GMC Terrain is another option available to explore, and this crossover SUV has its own features that set it apart. The rugged appearance of this SUV is marked by the unique upright grille, and the available metallic colors present a sophisticated appearance. Find out more how these two SUVs compete against each other and which one may best suit your lifestyle and needs.
2025 Subaru Forester vs 2025 GMC Terrain: Design & Exterior Features
The 2025 Forester comes standard with 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, with options to upgrade to 18- and 19-inch wheels. The 2025 Terrain has standard 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, and an option to upgrade to 19-inch wheels. Both SUVs come standard with LED head- and taillights, but only the Forester has steering responsive headlights for that extra level of visibility while cornering. Another standard feature on the Forester are raised roof rails, while roof rails are available on higher trims for the Terrain. For a better all-around driving experience, the Forester offers an 8.7-inch ground clearance, whereas the Terrain has a ground clearance of only 8.1 inches.
2025 Subaru Forester vs 2025 GMC Terrain: Comfort & Technology
Slide into the 2025 Forester and enjoy the StarTex® water-repellent upholstery, made from high-quality materials, while the 2025 Terrain has standard premium grade cloth seats. Both SUVs have a 5-passenger seating capacity, but the Forester strides ahead with a cargo space of 74.5 cu ft, while the Terrain only has 63.5 cu ft of max cargo space. Both have sunroofs available as upgrades, and cutting edge technology for optimal comfort.
The Terrain comes with a 15-inch premium GMC infotainment system, complete with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. The Forester comes with the SUBARU STARLINK® Dual 7-inch Multimedia system, also integrated with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This provides you with two separate 7-inch touchscreens, each designed for specific uses and convenient access.
2025 Subaru Forester vs 2025 GMC Terrain: Performance
Subaru's standard is upheld in the 2025 Forester with its 2.5L SUBARU BOXER® engine, which provides 180 horsepower with 178 lb-ft of torque. The Forester also comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for added traction while on the road. The 2025 Terrain is equipped with a turbocharged 1.5L engine that has 175 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with FWD paired to a continuous variable transmission (CVT), but it has all-wheel drive available with an 8-speed automatic transmission. As far as fuel economy goes, the Forester edges out another win as it gets an impressive estimated 33 MPG on the highway versus the Terrain's highway estimate of 28 MPG.
2025 Subaru Forester vs 2025 GMC Terrain: Safety
Both Subaru and GMC consider safety a top priority, and these SUVs are exemplary examples of that. The 2025 Forester comes with the Subaru EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, complete with Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking, and Pre-Collision Braking. The 2025 Terrain also comes with standard safety and driver assistance technology, including advanced cruise control, emergency braking, and lane keeping assistance. Neither the 2025 Forester or the 2025 Terrain have been rated by IIHS or NHTSA as of yet. Still, the 2024 Forester was given a Top Safety Pick Plus award by the IIHS and had a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with high expectations of the same level of safety standards for this year. The 2024 Terrain received a Good rating from IIHS, and also had a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.
2025 Subaru Forester vs 2025 GMC Terrain: Overall Value
If you're looking for a versatile SUV with ample cargo space, high performance, and an exemplary reputation for safety, the 2025 Subaru Forester is the best option. While the 2025 Terrain has its rugged looks, one large touchscreen, and options between FWD and AWD, it doesn't quite measure up to peak performance. The Forester demonstrates a dedication to high performance, exquisite design, and cutting edge technology, paired with money saving fuel economy and superb safety features for that added peace of mind. Experience for yourself what the 2025 Subaru Forester has to offer, and schedule a test drive today at Shingle Springs Subaru.
 | 2025 Subaru Forester | 2025 GMC Terrain |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Engine | 2.5-Liter BOXER® | 1.5L Turbo 4-Cylinder |
| Standard Horsepower | 180 | 175 |
| Standard Torque (lb-ft) | 178 | 184 |
| Standard Transmission | Lineartronic® CVT | CVT |
| Standard Fuel Economy (MPG) | 26 City / 33 Highway | 26 City / 89 Highway |
| Passenger Volume (Cubic Feet) | 110.8 | 103.2 |
| Max Cargo Volume (Cubic Feet) | 74.4 | 63.5 |
| Standard Climate Control | Dual-Zone Automatic | Single-Zone Automatic |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Standard | Standard |
| Standard Multimedia Touchscreen Size | Dual 7.0 Inches | 15 Inches |
