Toyota RAV4 vs Subaru Forester

2021 Toyota RAV4 vs 2021 Subaru Forester: Performance

It's imperative that a crossover SUV be able to generate enough power to get drivers through the streets and all sorts of different terrain. Both the Toyota RAV4 and the Subaru Forester are more than capable of providing that kind of power, albeit with some differences.

Let's take the RAV4 for example. It boasts a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine that pumps out 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft torque. Meanwhile, the Forester comes with a 2.5L SUBARU BOXER® engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque.

The Forester's power specs are solid across the board, but they still fall short of matching the RAV4's superior horsepower and torque.

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2021 Toyota RAV4 vs 2021 Subaru Forester: Fuel Efficiency

When you're dashing through the streets of Ohio on a daily basis, the last thing you want to do is take precious time out of your day to stop and get gas. That's why fuel efficiency is so important. The higher the efficiency, the longer it lasts in your tank, which means making fewer stops for gas.  

The Toyota RAV4 offers drivers an EPA-estimated 27 city/35 highway/30 combined MPG.¹ The Subaru Forester counters with a 26 city/33 highway/29 combined MPG. These numbers may seem identical but the RAV4 is able to leap ahead in all three categories. This makes a world of difference when it comes to gas.

The RAV4 clearly has the edge here.

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RAV4 vs. Forester: Interesting Interior

What's the first thing you do when you go to see a car at the dealership? Open the door and sit behind the wheel. You do this because you want to know what the seat will feel like, how comfortably your body fits behind the wheel, and how easy the buttons and knobs will be to access.

Both the Toyota RAV4 and the Subaru Forester do a splendid job of offering space and infotainment in abundance. However, the RAV4 comes standard with a remote keyless entry system that conveniently lets you enter the vehicle without using a key.

The Forester also has a keyless access feature, which isn’t standard and comes with a higher trim level.

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RAV4 vs Forester: Towing Capacity

It's always good to have a crossover SUV that can throw its weight around by tugging a lot of weight. When properly equipped, the Toyota RAV4 is able to offer drivers a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.

In comparison, the Subaru Forester is able to muster a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds when properly equipped.