In the world of compact crossover SUVs, which straddle the line between subcompact crossovers and midsize SUVs, the Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4 stand out as two leading competitors. Each of these vehicles boasts unique strengths that cater to different types of drivers.
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 and 2025 Subaru Forester are two versatile choices in the compact SUV segment. Renowned for their reliability, practicality, and adaptability to various needs, these SUVs are ideal for families and commuters alike. However, they each offer distinct advantages to cater to slightly different owner requirements.
The Toyota RAV4 for the year 2025 is one of the best-selling SUVs in its class. In the US market, aside from the Ford F-150 series and Chevrolet pickup trucks, the RAV4 ranks among the top-selling models for 2025. With options including hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, the RAV4 appeals to consumers seeking fuel efficiency and cutting-edge technology features.
On the other hand, the Subaru Forester shines with its standard all-wheel-drive, excellent safety features, and off-road capabilities. Known for its rugged design and adventurous spirit, the Forester is a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
An in-depth comparison by “US News & World Report” examines the 2025 Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Forester in ten aspects, covering categories such as pricing, reliability, interior quality, and performance, to help consumers determine which compact SUV best suits their lifestyle.
Winner: 2025 Toyota RAV4
Starting at $28,675, the 2025 Toyota RAV4 offers a more affordable option compared to the Subaru Forester. The RAV4 base model provides comfortable interiors, advanced safety features, and various trims, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, making it ideal for those prioritizing fuel efficiency.
The 2025 Subaru Forester starts at $29,695. However, being a standard all-wheel-drive vehicle, the Forester holds greater value for drivers in need of enhanced traction and off-road capabilities.
Winner: 2025 Subaru Forester
According to J.D. Power data, the Toyota RAV4 has an estimated reliability score of 80 out of 100, considered “above average.” The Subaru Forester scores an 83, rated as “excellent.” Scores of 91-100 are “best,” 81-90 are “great,” 70-80 are “average,” and 0-69 are “fair.”
Winner: 2025 Toyota RAV4
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 boasts a comfortable and well-designed interior with supportive seats for a pleasant driving experience. The spacious front seats with ample head and legroom are suitable for taller passengers. Higher trims include power-adjustable front seats, synthetic or genuine leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, adding luxury and convenience. The rear seats offer sufficient space for adult passengers, although the sloping roofline may reduce headroom in the back.
The 2025 Subaru Forester also features a comfortable cabin with excellent visibility and supportive seats. The upright design provides generous headroom for both rows of seats, ideal for taller passengers. While the rear seats offer ample legroom, some advanced features found in the RAV4, such as ventilated seats or leather upholstery, are lacking in the Forester’s seating options.
“US News & World Report” acknowledges that while the Toyota RAV4 does not offer ideal headroom for rear-seat passengers, it wins this category with its more luxurious seating options and slightly better overall comfort.
Winner: 2025 Subaru Forester
Impressive in cargo space, the 2025 Subaru Forester provides 28.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 74.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The wide rear opening and low cargo floor ease loading larger or bulky items.
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 offers 37.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. Although competitive for the compact SUV class, the RAV4 falls slightly short of the Forester’s maximum capacity.
Winner: 2025 Subaru Forester
Prioritizing practicality and durability, the 2025 Subaru Forester features a well-structured interior with high-quality materials, a functional yet sleek design, user-friendly controls, and excellent driver visibility.
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 showcases a modern and stylish interior with soft-touch materials, giving a luxurious feel on higher trims. However, its design leans more towards aesthetics than practicality, lacking in some cabin details that competitors focused on. This may disappoint drivers seeking the best everyday functionality.
Winner: 2025 Toyota RAV4
Equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen supporting Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, the 2025 Toyota RAV4 offers standard technology features. Higher trims come with a 10.5-inch touchscreen, full digital instrument cluster, and JBL premium audio system. Additional available features like wireless charging, Wi-Fi hotspot, and advanced navigation enhance the RAV4’s appeal for tech-savvy consumers.
The 2025 Subaru Forester comes with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, upgraded to an 8-inch screen in higher trims. While the Forester offers practical technology and user-friendly experience, it lacks the larger screen or advanced options found in the RAV4. For drivers prioritizing advanced technology, the Toyota RAV4 is the better choice.
Winner: 2025 Toyota RAV4
Featuring multiple powertrain options, the 2025 Toyota RAV4 provides buyers with a flexible selection to suit their specific needs. The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 203 horsepower paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and efficient performance. For those desiring better fuel economy, the RAV4 hybrid combines the gasoline engine with an electric motor, offering 219 horsepower and outstanding fuel efficiency. Additionally, the plug-in hybrid RAV4 Prime delivers 302 horsepower, capable of short distances on electric power alone, making it one of the most versatile SUVs in its class.
The 2025 Subaru Forester comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While the Forester’s powertrain is efficient and reliable, it lacks the diversity and performance options offered in the RAV4 lineup. For buyers seeking higher power and fuel efficiency through hybrid options, the RAV4 stands as the better choice.
Winner: 2025 Toyota RAV4
The powertrain options of the 2025 Toyota RAV4 excel in fuel efficiency in the compact SUV field. The standard RAV4 has EPA estimates of 27 mpg city and 35 mpg highway, while the RAV4 hybrid has EPA estimates of 41 mpg city and 38 mpg highway. The R…
Winner: 2025 Toyota RAV4
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 impresses with remarkable towing capacity for a compact SUV. Models equipped with the standard 2.5-liter engine can tow up to 1,500 pounds, whereas the RAV4 Adventure and TRD Off-Road variants, with all-wheel drive and additional towing enhancements, can increase towing capacity to a class-leading 3,500 pounds. This makes the RAV4 a versatile choice for those needing to tow small trailers, boats, or recreational gear.
The 2025 Subaru Forester offers a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds, sufficient for light towing needs like small utility trailers.
Winner: 2025 Subaru Forester
The 2025 Subaru Forester excels in driving comfort and stability, providing a smooth and composed driving experience on highways and rough terrains alike. With standard all-wheel drive enhancing traction and control under various conditions, the Forester proves to be a reliable choice for harsh weather regions. Tuned suspension, increased ground clearance, and excellent visibility instill confidence in drivers navigating rugged terrains or gravel roads.
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 offers a balanced driving experience, with responsive steering and stable handling suitable for paved surfaces. Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is available for drivers requiring additional traction. Although the RAV4 performs well in most situations, it lacks the standard all-wheel-drive system and off-road capabilities of the Forester.
Winner: Draw
Both the 2025 Subaru Forester and 2025 Toyota RAV4 stand on equal footing regarding safety. Equipped with advanced driver-assist features like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist, both SUVs have achieved top safety ratings, including a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and top safety picks from the IIHS.
While both the 2025 Subaru Forester and 2025 Toyota RAV4 are exceptional compact SUVs, the RAV4 stands out with numerous advantages, making it the superior choice. With its diverse powertrain options, advanced tech features, and modern interior design, the RAV4 excels in versatility and sophistication. The vehicle’s outstanding fuel economy, towing capacity, and affordability place it ahead in critical areas for most buyers.
The Subaru Forester’s strengths lie in standard all-wheel drive, spacious cargo space, and practicality, making it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts. However, for buyers seeking a compact SUV that combines performance, technology, and overall value, the Toyota RAV4 emerges as the winner.