Discover the Best Compact SUV: 2025 Subaru Forester vs. Toyota RAV4

Two of the top compact SUVs are the 2025 Subaru Forester and the Toyota RAV4. Their reliability, performance, and features make them popular choices for families. In this comparison, our team at Stivers Subaru in Decatur, Georgia, will break down key aspects such as performance, cargo space, technology, and safety to help you determine which SUV — the 2025 Subaru Forester vs. Toyota RAV4 — better fits your needs.

Reliability and Durability

Toyota and Subaru have a strong reputation for building reliable vehicles. J.D. Power rated the Forester "Great" (83/100) for reliability, while the Toyota received an "Average" score (80/100). The Toyota RAV4 consistently earns high marks for longevity, but the Subaru Forester also boasts a durable all-wheel-drive (AWD) system and rugged construction. Historically, Toyota has a lower average cost of maintenance, but Subaru's AWD capability is ideal if you live in harsher climates.

Seating and Comfort

Both SUVs offer seating for five, but the Forester's more upright design provides excellent visibility and more front legroom (43.3 inches vs. 41 inches) and rear legroom (39.4 inches vs. 37.8 inches) for passengers. The RAV4 features a sportier cabin design but can feel more compact. If comfort and spaciousness are priorities, the Forester takes the lead.

Cargo Space and Utility

Cargo capacity is an important factor if you're looking to buy an SUV. The 2025 Subaru Forester provides a generous 74.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down, whereas the Toyota RAV4 trunk space only offers 69.8 cubic feet. The Forester's taller roofline and boxy design also give it an edge in practicality, being better suited for bulkier items, while the RAV4 is ideal for everyday utility.

Interior Design and Quality

The Toyota RAV4’s sporty interior design features premium materials and a more driver-focused layout. Meanwhile, the Subaru Forester is better suited for everyday practicality and comfort, with high-quality materials and an open cabin feel. The Subaru's interior also offers a quieter ride, adding to the overall driving experience.

Infotainment and Tech Features

Both SUVs include user-friendly infotainment systems. The 2025 Forester features a 7-inch touch screen on the base trim, while the higher trims include an updated 11.6-inch touch screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also has a wireless smartphone charging pad. The RAV4 has a 10.5-inch screen on higher trims or an 8-inch touch screen on base models. Subaru's interface is more intuitive, whereas Toyota's infotainment system offers better graphics and a more responsive user interface. It also has wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the wireless charging pad is optional.

Engine Performance and Powertrain

The Subaru Forester has a 2.5-liter flat-four engine, continuously variable transmission, and standard AWD drivetrain that produces 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. Subaru has said a hybrid release may be on its way. In comparison, the 2025 Toyota RAV4 comes with a powerful 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard, but AWD is available. Hybrid and plug-in hybrid options offer up to 219 horsepower.

Fuel Efficiency Comparison

The gas-powered FWD RAV4 offers around 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The latter drops to 33-34 on the highway with AWD. The Subaru Forester delivers 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The Sport and Touring trims are 1 mpg less efficient in both scenarios. If fuel efficiency is your top priority, the RAV4 hybrid is an excellent choice, offering up to 41 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway.

Towing Capacity and Capability

The Subaru and Toyota are equal in terms of towing capacity. Both can tow up to 1,500 pounds, suitable for smaller trailers or light loads. The hybrid RAV4 can tow slightly more but not much. If you want to tow larger trailers or boats, you might be better off looking elsewhere.

Ride Comfort and Handling

Both SUVs provide a smooth ride, but the Subaru Forester's AWD system and softer suspension make it better for off-roading and snowy conditions. The RAV4’s stiffer ride makes it more engaging on pavement but less comfortable on rough roads. 

Safety Features and Ratings

Safety is a strong suit for both vehicles. The Subaru Forester comes with EyeSight Driver Assist, while the Toyota RAV4 features Toyota Safety Sense 2.5. Both SUVs include standard safety features such as adaptive cruise control, automated emergency braking, and lane departure warning with lane-keep assist.

The Subaru has received top crash test ratings (five stars overall) from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has rated it a Top Safety Pick for 2025. The RAV4 also has decent test results but scored lower in front crashes. It's got good ratings from the IIHS but isn't a top pick.

Overall Winner

Both SUVs do well in different areas, but the 2025 Subaru Forester takes the lead in comfort, all-weather capability, crash test results, and cargo space. It's an easy overall winner and arguably the better choice if you prioritize practicality and adventure. However, if fuel efficiency and sporty driving are more important, the Toyota RAV4 is a great option. The best way to decide which is best is with a test-drive. Visit our Stivers Subaru dealership in Decatur, Georgia, to test-drive the new Subaru today.