2026 Subaru Crosstrek vs 2026 Subaru Forester:
Safety comparison — crash avoidance & crash test ratings
Side-by-side comparison of standard crash-avoidance technologies and NHTSA/IIHS crash test ratings. Driver assistance and convenience features are covered in the full comparison.
Quick take
The Subaru Forester holds a modest edge in overall safety (79 vs 72), reflecting slightly stronger crash-avoidance equipment or crash-test performance. Both vehicles are evenly matched on the 4 core crash-avoidance technologies. The Subaru Forester achieves a higher IIHS designation (Not awarded vs Top Safety Pick+). Overall, the Subaru Forester has the stronger safety package, leading on 1 of 6 measured features versus 0 for the Subaru Crosstrek (5 tied). Check the full comparison for cost of ownership, powertrain, and livability scores — safety is one of five pillars in the MotiveGrid Score.
Crash avoidance(0–0–4)
(Wins–Losses–Ties for Subaru Crosstrek vs Subaru Forester)
Crash test ratings(0–1–1)
(Wins–Losses–Ties for Subaru Crosstrek vs Subaru Forester)
Data reflects standard equipment at the base MSRP. Optional packages like Ford BlueCruise, GM Super Cruise, and Tesla FSD are not scored (Tesla FSD is the lone curated exception). Crash test data from NHTSA and IIHS. ADAS data verified against manufacturer spec pages.
See the full Subaru Crosstrek vs Subaru Forester comparison — all five pillars including cost of ownership, powertrain, driver assistance, and livability: