KGM Torres vs Subaru Forester
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The KGM Torres starts from $34,990 before on-road costs, while the Subaru Forester opens at $43,490. That makes the KGM Torres the more affordable entry point by $8,500.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $38,489 and $47,839 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the KGM Torres and Subaru Forester hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Subaru Forester packs more ADAS features with 4 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 2 in the KGM Torres.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 7 in the KGM Torres and 9 in the Subaru Forester.
Feature Showdown
The KGM Torres features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, while the Subaru Forester gets a 11.6-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The KGM Torres stands out with Apple CarPlay and ambient lighting that you will not find on the Subaru Forester. The Subaru Forester counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The KGM Torres uses a Turbo GDi producing 120kW and 280Nm of torque, sent through a 6-speed automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 11.8 seconds.
The Subaru Forester responds with a Petrol making 136kW and 226Nm, paired to a cvt driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 11.2 seconds.
The Subaru Forester has the clear power advantage at 136kW vs 120kW. In the real-world sprint, the Subaru Forester is 0.6s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The KGM Torres measures 4,700mm long on a 2,700mm wheelbase, 45mm longer than the Subaru Forester at 4,655mm (2,670mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the KGM Torres generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 455L in the KGM Torres and 520L in the Subaru Forester, giving the Subaru Forester a 65L advantage.
For towing, the Subaru Forester leads with a 1,500kg braked capacity vs 1,500kg. That 0kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.8m to 11.2m
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 10.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,252/year for the KGM Torres and $2,309/year for the Subaru Forester. That is a $57 annual difference in favour of the KGM Torres.
Estimated annual total: $2,252 (KGM Torres) vs $2,309 (Subaru Forester). The KGM Torres saves you roughly $57 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 7 years / 999,999km (KGM Torres) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Subaru Forester). The KGM Torres has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the KGM Torres if: You want the lower entry price, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, or prefer KGM's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Subaru Forester if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, or prefer Subaru's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
This is genuinely close. The KGM Torres and Subaru Forester trade blows across the spec sheet, and neither runs away with an outright win. The KGM Torres will save you roughly $57 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Subaru Forester has a clear edge. The KGM Torres adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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