2023 Subaru Forester vs 2023 Toyota Rav4 Comparison

The 2023 Subaru Forester vs 2023 Toyota Rav4 Near Hartford

When it comes to choosing a new crossover SUV, the 2023 Subaru Forester and the 2023 Toyota Rav4 are two popular options. However, the Forester stands out in several key areas that make it the better choice for many buyers. Here is a closer look at how the Forester compares to the Rav4 in terms of performance, features, and safety ratings.

Performance:

One of the main advantages of the Forester is its engine options. The Forester comes with a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). The Forester is also available with a more powerful 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine is only available with AWD and a CVT.

In comparison, the Rav4 comes with a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and either FWD or AWD. The Rav4 is also available with a hybrid powertrain that combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors to produce 219 horsepower. The hybrid is only available with AWD.

While the Rav4's base engine has slightly more horsepower than the Forester's, the Forester's optional turbocharged engine offers significantly more power. This makes the Forester a better choice for drivers who want a little extra performance.

In terms of fuel efficiency, both the Forester and Rav4 are about average for their class. However, the Forester gets slightly better gas mileage than the Rav4 with both its base and turbocharged engines. The Forester gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway with FWD and the base engine, while the turbocharged engine gets 23 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. The Rav4 gets an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city and 35 mpg highway with FWD and the base engine, while the hybrid gets 41 mpg city and 38 mpg highway.

Features:

In terms of features, the Forester and Rav4 both offer a good selection of standard and optional equipment. However, the Forester has a few additional features that give it an edge. For example, the Forester comes standard with a 6.5-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic climate control, and a rearview camera. Optional features include a larger 8-inch infotainment system, a panoramic moonroof, and a premium audio system.

The Rav4 also comes standard with a 6.5-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as automatic climate control and a rearview camera. Optional features include a larger 8-inch infotainment system, a panoramic moonroof, and a premium audio system. The Rav4 also offers an optional JBL premium audio system and a wireless charging pad.

While both vehicles offer similar infotainment and comfort features, the Forester has a few additional options that give it an edge. For example, the Forester offers a panoramic moonroof, which the Rav4 does not.