Subaru Forester vs BMW I3

What's the difference?

VS
Subaru Forester
Subaru Forester

$43,490 - $55,990

2026 price

BMW I3
BMW I3

2020 price

Summary

2026 Subaru Forester
2020 BMW I3
Safety Rating

Engine Type

Not Applicable, 0.0L
Fuel Type
-

Electric
Fuel Efficiency
-

0.0L/100km (combined)
Seating
0

5
Dislikes
  • Sluggish acceleration
  • Needs all-terrain tyres
  • Intrusive driver alert system

  • Pricey
  • Tight rear room
  • Short warranty
2026 Subaru Forester Summary

The sixth-generation of Subaru’s Forester has landed and while the new hybrid versions constitute the biggest news of this batch, the petrol-only variants should not be ignored.

The five-seat mid-size SUV has a 2.5-litre four-cylinder 'boxer' engine, Subaru’s well-regarded 'symmetrical all-wheel drive' system and some new changes inside and out.

So, does the top-spec Touring offer the best value-for-money in the petrol Forester line-up?

Read on.

View full pricing & specs
2020 BMW I3 Summary

It’s easy to forget BMW was paddling into the growing electric vehicle wave when it was only a gentle swell. It took off early with the i3 city car, which believe it or not has been in the Aussie new car market for six years.

While the German maker has long been developing the concept of electrified powertrains in existing models, the i3 was the result of a dramatically different approach, showcasing the use of exotic materials and innovative packaging.

Like its i8 supercar sibling, the i3 won’t be replaced with a new-generation version, but BMW says it will continue to develop this high-tech hatch before it departs, and we spent a week in the sporty i3s to see how it stands up in 2020. 

View full pricing & specs

Deep dive comparison

2026 Subaru Forester 2020 BMW I3

Change vehicle