The 2024 Toyota RAV4 and the 2025 Subaru Forester each have features unique to them that appeal to different types of drivers. Let's put these two head-to-head to see their best features, areas to improve, and how those qualities stack up to each other. In this corner, we have the RAV4! And in this corner, the new Forester! Let the compact crossover SUV games begin!
Key Features and Variants
Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 comes out swinging with a triple combo of varieties- gas-powered, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid. The audience loves the versatility and finds something to cheer on from every turn. From the RAV4's more economical models to its rugged Adventure and TRD Off-Road editions and its fuel-efficient hybrid options- it's a good value for the modest price increase.
Subaru Forester
The newly redesigned 2025 Subaru Forester stands its ground soundly with its refined interior and enhanced safety features and surprises the crowd with its all-wheel drive off-road talents. The RAV4 may back the Forester to the ropes with its hybrid options, but the Forester may come back soon with a game-changing strategy to bring a hybrid Forester to the North American market this year.
Performance and Driving Experience
The new Subaru Forester has been working on its suspension, and it shows, with each ride moving smoothly and quietly. Speed takes a back seat to capability with the Forester's 180 hp engine and its full-time all-wheel drive, offering strong traction in any off-road matchup.
But the Toyota RAV4 brings a triple threat to the performance side of the drive with its 203 hp gas-powered model showing a nice balance of efficiency and power; the 219 hp RAV4 Hybrid- quieter and quicker to respond than its gas-powered counterpart- with its extra low-end torque and smooth launch; and the 302 hp RAV4 Prime's ability to hit 60 mph in less than 6 seconds.
Interior and Space
If what's on the inside is truly what counts, then the Toyota RAV4 has a lot of heart. Even though it has slightly less rear legroom than the Forester, it still seats five comfortably and scores a few more points for the extra storage space, with a cargo area of 37.5 cubic feet.
But when it comes to comfort, the new Subaru Forester dominates the interior game with its roomy space for passengers and their belongings. Even though that roominess costs the storage area several cubic feet of space compared to the RAV4, rear passengers enjoy more legroom, taking its comfort scores over the top.
Fuel Economy
The Subaru Forester's fuel economy- averaging 29 mpg combined" is respectable for its class. But the Toyota RAV4's Hybrid options may dazzle the judges with an impressive 38 mpg combined, while the RAV4 Prime offers up to 42 miles of all-electric drive time.
Safety and Styling
When the best offense can be a solid defense, high safety scores can come through for the win. The Toyota RAV4 has the necessary safety tech to get those high safety scores, but its thick rear roof pillars which may hinder visibility rearward can cost the RAV4 some points. But with its thinner roof pillars and higher-situated seating, the new Subaru Forester's outward visibility is superior. Along with its multitude of driver assist features, the new Forester gets bragging rights for their top safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA.
Let Subaru of Macon Help You Find Your Match!
Which one revs your engine? The 2024 Toyota RAV4 has more fuel-efficient model options and powertrains and a robust cargo capacity. The new 2025 Subaru Forester brings reliability and comfort with its high safety ratings, roomy interior, and off-road abilities. And when the Forester, from $31,090, and the Toyota RAV4 LE AWD, from $31,425, are closely priced, the final judge of this match will have to be a test drive. Schedule yours with Subaru of Macon to see why the Subaru Forester is a winning match for you!
