Forester vs. Toyota RAV4: What are the Differences Between these SUVs?
When you’re shopping for a dependable, capable SUV, two names often rise to the top: Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4. Both Forester and RAV4 vehicle families earned a reputation for reliability, offering standard and hybrid models packed with safety features, smart technology, and performance.
While these two compact SUVs share many similarities, there are key differences that can impact how they fit into your daily drive or your next big adventure. Whether you're heading off-road or commuting around town, this guide will show you what sets these two SUVs apart so you can choose the vehicle that best suits your lifestyle.
FAQs
Which is better overall: The Subaru Forester or the Toyota RAV4?
While both are great choices for everyday driving and weekend adventures, Subaru Forester has the advantage with standard AWD handling and a roomy interior. The Subaru compact SUV also receives strong reliability ratings from independent sources like Experian favoring Forester’s well-rounded performance.
Is the Forester or RAV4 better in snow and bad weather?
The Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system gives the Forester an edge over RAV4 in snow, rain, and slippery road conditions. While the RAV4’s AWD performs well, the Forester SUV’s ground clearance, standard AWD, and advanced X-MODE® help maintain a steadier grip on the road when conditions worsen.
Which has more cargo space and practical storage?
Subaru Forester edges out the Toyota RAV4 with up to 74.4 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats folded, compared to 70.4 cubic feet in the RAV4.
Which is more reliable long-term?
Reliability is one of the most important factors in choosing a vehicle, especially when you count on your SUV for years of daily commutes, weekend adventures, and family road trips. Independent sources like Experian show that the Subaru Forester (including hybrid models) consistently earn above-average reliability. The 2026 Forester is also a 2025 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ and earned top marks with a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Learn More About Forester Awards & Accolades
Which is better for families and car seats, Subaru Forester or Toyota RAV4?
A spacious cabin layout and a suite of Subaru EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology features make Forester an ideal fit for families. Roomy rear seating, wide doors, and a standard LATCH system make installing and using car seats easy. Passenger space in the Forester skews slightly larger than the RAV4, giving rear occupants more elbow and shoulder room.
Should I choose a RAV4 Hybrid over a Forester Hybrid?
Subaru Forester Hybrid shines when compared to the RAV4 Hybrid, with features that deliver in terms of economy, capability, and practicality. Equipped with Symmetrical AWD and X-MODE, the Forester Hybrid delivers all-weather confidence and comfort with higher ground clearance, everyday cargo and family space, and class-leading safety and reliability.
Comparing the Forester Hybrid v. RAV4 Hybrid
The hybrid versions of the Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4 take everything we love about their gas‑powered counterparts and add electric assist for improved fuel efficiency and everyday practicality. Both are compact SUVs with all‑wheel‑drive (AWD) capability, but they take slightly different technical approaches under the hood in terms of how they balance power, efficiency, and traction. In this comparison, we’ll break down what those differences mean for you.
Engines
At the heart of the Subaru Forester Hybrid is the brand’s trusted 2.5‑liter SUBARU BOXER® 4‑cylinder engine. This is the same engine design used in Subaru gas models, but paired with electric motors to boost efficiency and smoothness. The BOXER layout keeps the engine’s mass low and centered, delivering added balance and stability in everyday driving and routes to adventure. All Forester Hybrid trims come standard with this setup, as well as Subaru Symmetrical AWD, so traction is always part of the package.
The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid also uses a 2.5‑liter 4‑cylinder engine, but its hybrid system integrates electric motors with Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive®. While both SUVs use similar engines, the way each blends electric assist with traditional power affects overall feel and performance. Thanks to the standard AWD system as well as X-MODE, an advanced performance feature that adjusts driving capabilities based on specific road conditions, the Forester prioritizes traction and handling across various weather and terrain.
Mileage
Fuel economy (often called “mileage”) is one of the biggest reasons many drivers consider a hybrid. The Forester Hybrid gets up to an EPA-estimated 34 highway/35 city MPG
The RAV4 Hybrid offers similar fuel economy compared to the Forester Hybrid, but without standard AWD, adventures may only be limited to on-road driving.
Which is the Best Hybrid?
The Forester Hybrid leans into confidence and capability with Symmetrical AWD, X-MODE, and a balanced driving feel. While both offer great fuel economy, the Forester Hybrid eclipses the RAV4 Hybrid with the benefit of proven handling on city streets, off-road trails, and in icy conditions.
When it comes to overall recognition from trusted reviewers, the Subaru Forester Hybrid has earned standout reliability and satisfaction scores. In fact, the Subaru Forester Hybrid was named an IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK, validating its appeal for buyers who want a well‑rounded, reliable hybrid.
Cabin Space
Both Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4 offer roomy, well-designed cabins that make long drives and everyday errands feel comfortable. With generous headroom and legroom in both rows, these compact SUVs make it easy for adults to stretch out—whether you're sitting up front or in the back. Thoughtful interior layouts also mean that passengers won't feel cramped, even when the vehicle is fully loaded. Passenger volume for the Forester is a spacious is up to a spacious 110.8 cubic feet, with the RAV4 pulling up slightly behind with 98.9 cubic feet.
The Forester gives you up to 41.2 inches of front headroom and 39.6 inches in the rear, making it a great fit for taller drivers and passengers. The RAV4 offers similar rear headroom, but less up front at 37.7 inches. When it comes to legroom, the Forester gains the advantage, with 43.3 inches up front and 39.4 inches in the rear, while the RAV4 offers 41 inches up front and 37.8 in the rear.
Overall, the Forester’s open, airy feel and well-balanced dimensions give it an edge in all-around comfort for road trips and daily drives alike.
Powertrain
When you peek under the hood of the Forester, the signature 2.5 liter SUBARU BOXER® engine sits low in the chassis, helping deliver a smooth, balanced feel and greater stability on rough roads and slippery surfaces.
By contrast, the RAV4 uses a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Both SUVs offer hybrid choices that bring an electric assist into the mix. However, the Forester Hybrid blends electric power with Symmetrical AWD prowess to balance efficiency and superior handling for drivers who want the best of both worlds.
Horsepower
The Subaru Forester delivers impressive horsepower: between 180 HP (gas) and 194 HP (hybrid). Subaru BOXER engine delivers added muscle for drivers and is tuned for consistent, usable power across everyday driving situations. Combined with Symmetrical AWD, this setup makes the Forester ready for anything, especially under changing road or weather conditions.
The RAV4 offers a similar performance, but it does not come with standard AWD.
Off-Road Capabilities
Both SUVs can handle light trails and unpaved roads, but the Forester leans more into off‑road confidence. Symmetrical All‑Wheel Drive comes standard and offers outstanding traction in rain, snow, or gravel without having to pay extra for what feels like a premium feature. The Subaru X‑MODE® system works alongside Symmetrical AWD to enhance traction and help manage wheelspin on slippery inclines.
The RAV4 offers available AWD on many trims, but it’s not standard across all models, and its system isn’t as optimized rugged terrain as the Symmetrical AWD system in the Forester. If you pick the Forester Wilderness trim, you’ll find even higher ground clearance and tougher off‑road capabilities than the RAV4 typically offers.
Which SUV Gets Better Gas Mileage?
Both SUVs deliver strong economy for this class, with each offering hybrid models that further boost MPG figures.
The Forester holds its own with competitive fuel efficiency particularly considering that every trim features the legendary Subaru Symmetrical AWD on every trim. The hybrid Forester also blends electric assist with Symmetrical AWD to help optimize fuel usage.
Cargo
Safe, spacious, and made with adventure in mind, the Forester offers more cargo room. When the rear seats are folded, the Forester delivers generous cargo volume (up to 74.4 cubic feet) with plenty of room for bikes, coolers, and camping equipment. The RAV4, by comparison, offers up to 69.8 cubic feet of space when rear seats are folded.
Safety
Safety is a major reason many drivers choose Subaru, and the Forester reflects that reputation clearly. Standard Symmetrical AWD helps improve traction and stability in rain, snow, and uneven road conditions, giving drivers more confidence year‑round. Subaru EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology adds an extra layer of protection, with features that can monitor traffic movement and help reduce driver fatigue.
The RAV4 also offers a strong suite of safety technologies, including Toyota Safety Sense™, with features like adaptive cruise control and lane assistance. However, the Subaru Forester stands out by making many advanced safety features standard rather than optional. Features like Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross‑Traffic Alert, as well as help drivers stay aware of potential hazards.
Features
Both SUVs offer a wide range of comfort and convenience features, but the Forester emphasizes control and confidence in changing road and weather conditions. Both offer a version of Lane Keep Assist, which provides gentle steering support to help keep the vehicle centered without feeling intrusive to drivers. Blind Spot Monitoring in the Forester helps drivers detect vehicles they may not see, while RAV4 also offers a comparable Blind Spot Monitor feature option on select trims.
The Forester also includes capability‑focused features that align with Subaru brand’s adventure‑ready DNA. Hill Descent Control helps maintain a steady speed when traveling downhill on steep or slippery terrain, reducing driver stress. Combined with standard all‑wheel drive, these features make the Forester especially appealing for drivers who spend time off paved roads or in unpredictable weather.
Pricing
Pricing for both the Forester and RAV4 varies by trim level, drivetrain, and available features. While base models are competitively priced, costs increase as you move into hybrid or adventure‑oriented trims.
However, pricing for the Subaru Forester with standard all-wheel drive starts at $29,995 while the AWD version of the RAV4 starts at $31,200.
Explore The Best SUV for You
Choosing between the Forester and RAV4 comes down to how you plan to use your SUV. The Subaru Forester family of vehicles is built around balance, offering Symmetrical AWD, robust safety technology, and practical interior space across gas and hybrid models. This range of compact SUVs is designed for drivers who want confidence in daily driving, flexibility for weekend adventures, and comfort wherever the road takes them.
The RAV4 lineup offers variety and efficiency. However, the Subaru approach focuses on consistency across the entire Forester range. From safety to traction to interior comfort, the Forester delivers a consistent and reliable experience, no matter which trim you choose. That makes it a compelling option for drivers who value reliability and peace of mind.
Shop All Subaru Forester Trim Levels
The Subaru Forester gives you a choice of multiple trims designed to fit different lifestyles, from daily commuting to off‑road exploration. When comparing the Forester vs. the RAV4, Subaru stands out for its Symmetrical AWD, safety‑first engineering, and optimistic, adventure-ready design. If you’re still weighing your options, you may also want to explore how the Forester compares to the Honda CR-V to find the SUV that best fits your needs.
