2021 Toyota RAV4 vs Subaru Forester

2021 RAV4 vs 2021 Forester: Performance

Nothing is going to get you where you’re going quite like a crossover can, and these two models prove that to be true.

Toyota RAV4 vs Subaru Forester Performance Specs
	Toyota RAV4	Subaru Forester
Engine Power	203 horsepower	182 horsepower
Torque	184 lb-ft	176 lb-ft
Max Towing Capacity	3,500 pounds	1,500 pounds

It all starts with the engine. Standard in the Toyota RAV4, you’ll find a powerful 2.5L 4-cylinder engine. This option boasts 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, making for a robust drive that’s also smooth.

Although the Forester comes standardly equipped with its own 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, it provides less oomph all around. It generates 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque for a slightly less elevated power output on the road.

When it comes to towing capacity, these vehicles offer some solid performance. In their base trims, these vehicles can tow up to 1,500 pounds, which is great for small trailers. If you want to bring along a small boat or some extra cargo, though, the RAV4 Adventure trim earns a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.

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RAV4 vs Forester: Off-Roading Capabilities

When your adventure takes you off the beaten path, the Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Forester are prepared with excellent off-roading capabilities.

For the Subaru Forester, you’ll be able to switch into X-MODE®, which is a system that’s designed to increase individual wheelspin for added grip on low-traction surfaces.

For the Toyota RAV4, though, you’ll be able to upgrade your vehicle with an available Multi-terrain Select feature with four different drive modes:

• Mud & Sand
• Rock & Dirt
• Snow
• Normal

With these drive modes at your disposal, you’ll be able to get a more specialized performance, so you’re totally prepared to drive through more challenging areas.

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RAV4 vs Forester: Fuel Economy

Looking to fill up the gas tank less often? Who isn’t! With the RAV4 and Forester, you can do just that. However, one model might leave you wishing that you had a little more efficiency.

While the Subaru Forester has an impressive EPA-estimated 26 city and 33 highway MPG, the Toyota RAV4 offers a bit more fuel efficiency. Its EPA-estimated fuel economy rating comes in at 27 city and 35 highway MPG.¹

Although you’ll get a slightly better city MPG in the RAV4 than the Forester, the highway MPG is taken to the next level in the Toyota. This is incredibly beneficial for drivers who hit the open road a lot, or for those who drive a mix of both.

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Toyota RAV4 vs Subaru Forester: Standard Safety Suites

One of the most impressive features aboard either the Toyota RAV4 or Subaru Forester is their active safety suites.

With the Toyota RAV4 offering its standard Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.0 suite and the Subaru Forester offering its standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, you can be sure you’re well-equipped for anything.

Both suites treat us to standard technology, like a Pre-Collision Braking System. Through the help of sensors, these vehicles can detect how close you are to cars up ahead. If it’s looking like a collision might occur, your vehicle can engage the brakes automatically to bring you to a stop.

However, one feature that the Toyota RAV4 offers that you won’t find with the Subaru Forester is the standard Road Sign Assist. Thanks to a set of cameras along the body of your SUV, this feature will record important road signs for you. You’ll have no trouble staying safe on busy roads while your vehicle picks up on important details you might miss.

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Toyota RAV4 vs Subaru Forester: Interior Design

When you want a vehicle that will keep you comfortable and occupied for a long time, you’re going to want one with a great interior design. Both the Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Forester are designed with roomy cabins complete with high-quality seating materials to add style and comfort.

If you choose the Toyota, you can upgrade your RAV4’s interior with an available JBL® audio system with 11 speakers. That high-quality audio is great if you’re a music lover.

Unfortunately, you’ll only be working with an available Harman Kardon® premium audio system with nine speakers inside the Subaru Forester, leaving you with less audio quality overall.

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Toyota RAV4 vs Subaru Forester: Interior Convenience

Making your drives as easy and comfortable as they can be is at the forefront of both Toyota’s and Subaru’s minds.

As such, both crossovers come with an available 8-inch touchscreen multimedia system, which allows you to access music, navigation, smartphone apps, and more. Staying connected on the go has never been easier!

The RAV4 also comes with an available Smart Key System that allows you to open the doors of your vehicle, as well as start it up, with no need to find your key fob in your purse or pocket. The Forester also comes with keyless access and Push Button Start, but it requires a pin code to activate.

Another great feature found only in the 2021 RAV4 is an available Bird’s Eye View Camera with Perimeter Scan. This allows you to do a scan of your vehicle’s surroundings, providing you with a 360-degree view when driving, parked, or in reverse.

If you want to learn more, check out our Toyota RAV4 research!