When someone talks about crossover sports utility vehicles (CUV), there are brand names that by default come to mind and for sure the Nissan X-Trail and Subaru Forester are one of those. Today we are going to take a look at these two great cars by comparing the Nissan X-Trail vs Subaru Forester to see what they offer in detail. We are going to take a look at the interior, exterior, performance, and functionality.
Nissan X-Trail vs Subaru Forester Side-By-Side Comparison
(*Prices are reflective of average BE FORWARD pricings as of June 2024.)
Nissan X-Trail Subaru Forester
Generations 3 (T30, T31, T32) 5 (SF, SG, SH, SJ, SK)
Production Year 2000 - Present 1997 Present
Performance 108 HP - 178 HP 147.51 HP - 268.20 HP
Fuel Consumption 12.5 KM/L - 22.11 KM/L 7.69 KM/L - 19.20 KM/L
Drivetrain FWD or 4WD FWD or 4WD
Key Features CD Player, Power Steering, Power Window, A/C,
Alloy Wheels, Airbag, Radio, DVD, Fog Lights, ESC,
Back CameraRear Spoiler, Power Steering, Power Windows,
Airbag, A/C, ABS, ESC, Fog Lights, Radio, Keyless
Entry
Seating Capacity 5 - 7 Passengers 5 Passengers
BE FORWARD price US$ 1,030 - US$ 33,170 US$ 1,300 - US$ 57,960
Interior/Exterior Comparison
Nissan X-Trail
| 2015 | USD 4,000 – USD 13,080 |
| 2016 | USD 4,580 – USD 17,000 |
| 2023 | USD 26,760 – USD 67,200 |
Interior
- Space
The Nissan X-Trail’s interior offers ample space, comfortably seating up to seven passengers with flexible rear seat configurations for additional cargo. The roomy cabin ensures a comfortable ride for all occupants, featuring a well-organized center console with a large touchscreen display and intuitive controls. Premium materials, a panoramic sunroof, and dual-zone climate control enhance the overall driving experience. The X-Trail’s spacious and versatile interior makes it an excellent choice for families and adventure seekers alike.
- Center console
The Nissan X-Trail’s interior features a well-designed center console that enhances convenience and accessibility. The large touchscreen display at the center offers intuitive controls for the infotainment system, including navigation, audio, and smartphone integration. Additional storage compartments and cup holders are thoughtfully placed, ensuring easy access to essential items. High-quality materials and a sleek design make the center console a functional and stylish focal point, contributing to the overall comfort and user-friendly experience of the X-Trail’s cabin.
- Other Feature
Other features include three 12-volt outlets, a front USB port, and—two at the front and one at the rear. The seats in the X-Trail are exceptionally comfortable, made from soothing fabric in standard models, while high-end models offer leather upholstery, power front seats, heated rear seats, a Bose 8-speaker stereo, and a heated steering wheel. The X-Trail excels in storage, with a 565-liter boot capacity that expands to 945 liters when the rear seats are folded down. Additional storage is available under the boot floor, where the space-saver spare wheel is stored.
Exterior
The Nissan X-Trail features a sleek and modern exterior design that combines practicality with style. Its aerodynamic profile is complemented by bold lines and a distinctive front grille, giving it a rugged yet refined appearance. LED headlights and taillights enhance visibility and add a touch of sophistication. Available roof rails and alloy wheels contribute to its adventurous appeal, while optional features like a panoramic sunroof provide a sense of openness. Overall, the X-Trail’s exterior design strikes a balance between functionality and aesthetic appeal, making it a standout in the compact SUV category.
Safety
The Nissan X-Trail prioritizes safety with a comprehensive array of advanced features. Standard safety equipment includes multiple airbags, stability control, and anti-lock brakes for secure handling in various conditions. Advanced driver-assistance systems, such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning, enhance collision avoidance capabilities. Optional features like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring further bolster safety. With its robust safety suite and solid construction, the X-Trail provides peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike, ensuring a secure driving experience on the road.
Recommended Users:
Families
- Due to having cargo space that can accommodate luggage of five families/565 liters of cargo capacity
- It offers spacious seating for up to 7 passengers, providing ample room for children and additional passengers. /5-7 passenger
Outdoor enthusiasts
- Is an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts/with a rugged design and versatile capabilities
- Allowing it to navigate challenging terrain and off-road trails with ease/ample ground clearance and all-wheel-drive capability
Suitable Environments:
Urban Areas: Its compact size and maneuverability are well-suited for navigating city streets and parking in tight spaces. Features like a rear-view camera and parking sensors enhance urban driving convenience
Suburban Settings: The X-Trail’s spacious interior and comfortable ride make it ideal for commuting and family outings in suburban neighborhoods. It offers ample cargo space for groceries, sports equipment, and luggage.
Highways and Long-Distance Travel: The X-Trail provides a stable and comfortable ride on highways, offering good fuel efficiency for long-distance travel. Advanced safety features ensure peace of mind during extended journeys
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Subaru Forester
| 2015 | USD 4,510 – USD 15,070 |
| 2016 | USD 3,690 – USD 14,410 |
| 2023 | USD 5,660 – USD 23,200 |
Interior
The Forester has significantly grown and evolved over the years, transitioning from its first-generation dimensions of a 2525 mm wheelbase, 4450 mm length, 1735 mm width, and 1650 mm height to its current dimensions of a 2670 mm wheelbase, 4620 mm length, 1815 mm width, and 1730 mm height. This increase in size translates to a spacious and airy cabin. The front seats are supportive and feature close-grained upholstery, with height adjustment available for both front passengers. The extended 2670 mm wheelbase ensures ample rear seat space. The seats come with cloth upholstery and durable vinyl bolsters. The Forester Sport adds a touch of zest with orange and shiny black accents, while the Touring model features luxurious brown leather upholstery on the seats, doors, dashboard, and center console.
The Forester features a practical infotainment system with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, upgraded to 8.0 inches in higher-end models, positioned at the top of the center console. It comes standard with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. The Forester also boasts impressive cargo space, with a tailgate that opens exceptionally wide, facilitating easy loading and unloading of goods.
Exterior
The exterior of the 2025 Subaru Forester blends modern design with practicality, making it both stylish and functional. The front end features a redesigned grille flanked by sleek, updated LED headlights that provide improved visibility and a contemporary look. The aerodynamic profile includes bold character lines and a robust stance, enhancing aesthetics and performance.
Standard roof rails add versatility for carrying extra cargo, while new alloy wheel designs offer elegance and sportiness. The 8.7 inches of ground clearance ensures the Forester is ready for off-road adventures, while the panoramic power moonroof, available in higher trims, adds an airy feel to the cabin. The 2025 Forester also offers a variety of exterior color options, allowing drivers to personalize their vehicle. Overall, the Forester’s exterior is a perfect blend of ruggedness and sophistication, ideal for urban commutes and outdoor escapades alike.
Safety
The 2025 Subaru Forester prioritizes safety with an impressive suite of features. Standard on all models is the Eyesight Driver Assist Technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking. The Forester also offers blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rearview camera for enhanced awareness and collision avoidance. Advanced airbag systems and stability control ensure passenger protection in various driving conditions. Higher trims feature additional safety enhancements, such as reverse automatic braking and a driver distraction monitoring system. Overall, the 2025 Forester provides comprehensive safety features, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.
Recommended Users:
Families: Spacious interior and advanced safety features make it ideal for family outings and daily commutes.
Outdoor Enthusiasts: High ground clearance and all-wheel drive are perfect for off-road adventures and rugged terrain.
Urban Singles and Couples: Compact design with modern features and excellent fuel efficiency suit city driving and weekend getaways.
Suitable Environments:
Rural Driving: Robust build and reliable performance handle rough and unpaved roads with ease.
Urban Driving: Maneuverability and convenience features like parking assist are great for navigating city streets and parking in tight spots.
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Engine and Fuel Efficiency Comparison
Nissan X-Trail
Almost every release of the X-Trail introduces a new or upgraded engine, reflecting the evolution over its three generations. Here are some of the engines featured in various models:
| 1st Generation | Engine | Horsepower | Ave Fuel Consumption | Transmission |
| 2.0L Inline 4-cylinder (QR20DE) | 140 | 12.98 | 4-speed automatic, 5 and 6-speed manual | |
| 2.5L Inline 4-cylinder (QR25DE) | 178 | 12.5 | 4-speed automatic, 5 and 6-speed manual | |
| 2.0L Inline 4-cylinder (YD22DDT) | 108 | 13.7 | 4-speed automatic, 5 and 6-speed |
| 2nd Generation | Engine | Horsepower | Ave Fuel Consumption | Transmission |
| 2.0L 4-cylinder (MR20DE I4) | 150 | 11.5 | 6-speed manual or 6-speed auto CVT | |
| 2.5L 4-cylinder (QR25DE) I4 | 170 | 11.1 | 6-speed manual or 6-speed auto CVT | |
| 2.0L 4-cylinder (M9R) turbo I4 | 150 | 16 | 6-speed manual or 6-speed auto CVT |
| 3rd Generation | Engine | Horsepower | Ave Fuel Consumption | Transmission |
| 1.3L HR13DDT turbo I4 | 157 | 16 | 6-speed manual CVT 7-speed DCT Hybrid drivetrain Parallel hybrid (X-Trail Hybrid) | |
| 1.6 L MR16DDT turbo I4 | 163 | 15 | 6-speed manual CVT 7-speed DCT Hybrid drivetrain Parallel hybrid (X-Trail Hybrid) | |
| 2.0 L MR20DD I4 | 144 | 14 | 6-speed manual CVT 7-speed DCT Hybrid drivetrain Parallel hybrid (X-Trail Hybrid) | |
| 2.5 L QR25DE I4 | 169 | 12 | 6-speed manual CVT 7-speed DCT Hybrid drivetrain Parallel hybrid (X-Trail Hybrid) | |
| 1.6 L R9M I4 | 130 | 19 | 6-speed manual CVT | |
| 1.7 L R9N I4 | 150 | 17 | 7-speed DCT Hybrid drivetrain | |
| 2.0 L M9R I4 | 150 | 16 | Parallel hybrid (X-Trail Hybrid) |
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Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester has established a strong presence over the years, consistently delivering impressive engines that have won the hearts of car enthusiasts. Here’s a look at what the Forester has offered under the hood throughout its evolution.
| 1st Generation | Engine | Horsepower | Ave Fuel Consumption | Transmission |
| 2.0L Inline 4-cylinder (QR20DE) | 140 | 12.98 | 4-speed automatic, 5 and 6-speed manual | |
| 1st 2.0L Inline 4-cylinder (QR20DE) 2.5L Inline 4-cylinder (QR25DE) | 178 | 12.5 | 4-speed automatic, 5 and 6-speed manual | |
| 2.0L Inline 4-cylinder (YD22DDT) | 108 | 13.7 | 4-speed automatic, 5 and 6-speed manual |
| 2nd Generation | Engine | Horsepower | Ave Fuel Consumption | Transmission |
| 2.0L EJ20 I4 | 126 | 10 | 5-speed manual transmission | |
| 2.5L EJ25 I4 | 165 | 9 | 4-speed automatic transmission |
| 3rd Generation | Engine | Horsepower | Ave Fuel Consumption | Transmission |
| 2.0L EJ20 I4 | 150 | 11 | 5-speed manual transmission | |
| 2.5L EJ25 I4 | 170 | 9 | 4-speed automatic transmission 5-speed automatic transmission (turbo models) |
| 4th Generation | Engine | Horsepower | Ave Fuel Consumption | Transmission |
| 2.0L FB20 I4 | 150 | 13 | 6-speed manual transmission | |
| 2.5L FB25 I4 | 170 | 11 | Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) |
| 5th Generation | Engine | Horsepower | Ave Fuel Consumption | Transmission |
| 2.5L FB25 I4 | 182 | 12 | Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) | |
| 2.0L Direct Injection Turbo (DIT) | 250 | 11 |
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Writer’s Perspective
Both the Nissan X-Trail and Subaru Forester are excellent choices for drivers in Kenya, Tanzania, and Australia. The X-Trail offers versatility and robust off-road capabilities, making it ideal for navigating diverse terrains. The Forester, with its advanced safety features and reliable performance, provides a comfortable and secure ride, whether in urban settings or rural landscapes. Both models offer ample space and fuel efficiency, catering well to families, outdoor enthusiasts, and urban commuters in these regions.
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The Verdict
The Nissan X-Trail and Subaru Forester are both outstanding choices in the SUV market, offering distinct advantages that cater to various needs and preferences.
The Nissan X-Trail is well-regarded for its versatility and practicality. It excels in offering a spacious interior, flexible seating configurations, and ample cargo space, making it ideal for families and those with an active lifestyle. The X-Trail’s robust build and all-wheel-drive capability ensure it can handle diverse terrains, from urban roads to off-road trails, making it particularly suited for the varied landscapes of Kenya, Tanzania, and Australia. Its advanced safety features and user-friendly technology further enhance its appeal, providing peace of mind and convenience to drivers and passengers alike.
On the other hand, the Subaru Forester stands out for its reliable performance and comprehensive safety suite. Known for its symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, the Forester delivers excellent stability and control in various driving conditions, from city streets to rugged rural paths. Its spacious and comfortable interior, coupled with advanced infotainment options, makes it a pleasure to drive on long journeys. The Forester’s commitment to safety, with features like EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, ensures a secure driving experience for all occupants.
In conclusion, both the Nissan X-Trail and Subaru Forester offer exceptional value, with the X-Trail excelling in versatility and the Forester in safety and reliability. Your choice will depend on your specific needs, whether you prioritize off-road capability, interior space, or advanced safety features.
I am a Telecom & ICT specialist with a career spanning over 15 years in the demanding Tanzanian telecom industry.
I am also an avid DIYer with a good knack for everything technical and a wealth of vocational skills, with automotive being the top, and here I am writing about cars.
In 2017 a guy created a WhatsApp group called MyCar for the sole purpose of members helping each other with all matters regarding cars. I joined this group in 2018, and with my enormous wealth of knowledge regarding cars, and my readiness to share the knowledge with others, I became a top contributor, and that didn’t go unnoticed, as one member thought I was a potential writer and had contacts with Be Forward Japan who were looking for writers then. Fast forward to January 2020, I began writing for the Be Forward blog with 2024 being my fourth year.
As far as I can remember, I love cars, and growing up in the farming and tourist city of Arusha Tanzania in the ’80s and ’90s, I ended up being drawn to the Ranger Rover Classic for leisure and Land Cruiser 70 pickup as a workhorse. These were tough cars then, cars that could take you anywhere any time no matter the weather.
