Hyundai Tucson vs Subaru Forester – The Clear Choice for Montana Drivers
Shopping for a capable SUV in Montana often means weighing the Hyundai Tucson against the Subaru Forester. Both offer AWD capability, modern features, and practicality for life in the Flathead Valley. Still, key differences make Tucson the better value for many drivers in Kalispell, Missoula, and beyond. Below, we break down performance, technology, interior space, and safety to help you make an informed decision.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Hyundai Tucson | Subaru Forester |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $28,750 | $29,695 |
| Engine | 2.5L I4, 187 hp | 2.5L Boxer I4, 182 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 176 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | CVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD or available AWD | Standard AWD |
| EPA MPG (city/highway) | Up to 26 / 33 | Up to 26 / 33 |
| Passenger Volume | 108.2 cu. ft. | 111.6 cu. ft. |
| Max Cargo Volume | 80.3 cu. ft. | 74.2 cu. ft. |
| Infotainment | Standard 8" touchscreen; available 10.25" + digital cluster | Standard 8" touchscreen; available 11.6" vertical screen |
| Warranty | 10yr/100k mi powertrain (America’s Best Warranty™) | 5yr/60k mi powertrain |
† MSRP excludes destination charges, taxes, title, license, options, and dealer fees. Always verify current pricing with Clark Hyundai.
Performance and Efficiency
The Hyundai Tucson’s 2.5L I4 engine delivers 187 horsepower, slightly more than the Forester’s 182 hp. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the Tucson provides smooth shifts and confident acceleration. In contrast, the Forester’s CVT is efficient but lacks the same responsive feel.
Fuel economy is competitive, with both SUVs offering up to 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. Tucson also offers hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, giving Montana drivers flexibility if fuel savings and eco-conscious driving are a priority.
Interior Space and Cargo
While the Forester edges out the Tucson slightly in passenger volume (111.6 cu. ft. vs. the Tucson’s 108.2 cu. ft.), the Tucson dominates in cargo capacity. With the rear seats folded, Tucson provides up to 80.3 cu. ft. of cargo room, compared to Forester’s 74.2 cu. ft. That extra space makes a difference for skis, camping gear, or road-trip supplies when heading to Glacier National Park or Flathead Lake.
Technology and Infotainment
The Hyundai Tucson offers a modern digital experience. A 10.25-inch available touchscreen with a digital gauge cluster provides drivers with a sleek, intuitive interface, featuring standard Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. The Forester comes with a standard 8-inch screen (a larger vertical 11.6-inch screen is available on top trims), but it lacks the same digital gauge integration that the Tucson provides.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Both SUVs offer advanced driver-assist suites, but Hyundai’s SmartSense package comes standard across the Tucson lineup, including features like Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Smart Cruise Control. Subaru EyeSight® provides similar technology, though some features require higher trims.
On top of that, Tucson is backed by America’s Best Warranty™ — 10 years/100,000 miles of powertrain coverage, nearly double what Subaru provides.
Value and Ownership
For Montana drivers, value isn’t just about price—it’s about peace of mind. Tucson offers a lower starting MSRP, more cargo room, advanced technology, and a significantly stronger warranty package than the Subaru Forester. Combined with flexible financing and Hyundai’s reputation for long-term reliability, the Tucson delivers more for your money.
The Clear Choice: Hyundai Tucson
The Subaru Forester remains a capable SUV, especially for standard AWD lovers, but the Hyundai Tucson makes a stronger case with its blend of power, space, technology, and warranty coverage. From Missoula commutes to Kalispell winters, the Tucson is the SUV built to handle Montana roads with confidence.
Ready to compare in person?
At Clark Hyundai in Kalispell, we’re proud to serve drivers from across the Flathead Valley, Whitefish, Columbia Falls, Bigfork, and Missoula. Our Best Price Promise, transparent financing, and friendly, non-commissioned advisors make it easy to shop with confidence.
