Honda CR-V vs Subaru Forester: SUV Showdown
The Honda CR V vs Subaru Forester are top picks among compact SUVs. Both are beloved in the U.S. for reliability, comfort, and roomy interiors.
This battle will highlight key features, performance, and fit for different lifestyles. By the end, you’ll know which SUV is right for you.
We start with the 2024 Honda CR-V. It boasts 190 hp and up to 34 highway MPG. Then, we examine the Subaru Forester.
It has 182 hp, standard all-wheel drive, and the DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System. These details will guide you in picking the right crossover SUV.
This guide focuses on comparing performance and comfort. We want to show which SUV could be the perfect choice for your family and way of life. Let’s dive in and see what each model brings to the table!
Introduction To The SUV Showdown
The Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester are top rivals in the compact SUV class. They’re known for being functional and versatile.
This has helped them get a lot of praise over time. Knowing what each offers is key when choosing your SUV.
In this automotive comparison, we’ll look at safety, performance, interior comfort, and overall value.
The Honda CR-V review notes its solid performance, boasting 190 horsepower. Plus, it has great fuel efficiency, with up to 30 MPG combined.
On the other hand, the Subaru Forester has a decent 182 horsepower but falls slightly short in fuel economy, with up to 29 MPG combined.
Both SUVs have lots of room for your stuff and space for backseat passengers. The Honda CR-V gives you 39.3 cubic feet of space behind the second row.
The Subaru Forester provides 28.9 cubic feet. This could influence your decision.
If safety or performance is your main concern, this detailed Subaru Forester comparison has the info you need.
It’ll help you, whether you’re city driving or heading off-road. Knowing about these two SUVs will guide your next choice.
Key Features of The Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is a top choice in the crowded SUV market, thanks to its great specs and useful features. It comes in five models, including the LX and EX-L.
Each one is designed to meet different needs. Its powerful engine choices and solid performance make it a leading option for families.
Performance and Engine Options
The CR-V has a 1.5-liter turbo engine that delivers 190 horsepower. If you’re looking for a green choice, the hybrid model has a 2.0-liter engine with 204 horsepower.
Both engines work with a CVT, making the ride smooth and fun. Plus, hybrids can get up to 43 mpg in the city, which is great for the planet.
The CR-V has different drive modes like Normal and Sport, fitting both city streets and country roads. This shows the CR-V’s flexibility, making it an excellent vehicle for various settings.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Stepping into the CR-V, you’re greeted by cozy seats and lots of room. It can hold up to 76.5 cubic feet of stuff with the back seats down.
This makes it super versatile for families. It even has a 7-inch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you’re always connected.
If you want more tech, some models come with a 9-inch screen and wireless charging.
Safety is key in the CR-V, featuring Traffic Jam Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control. These keep your family safe on the road.
Key Features of The Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester shines in the compact SUV category, blending practicality with adventure.
Its sturdy design and solid performance work well in cities and off-road. The key features make it a top choice in the compact SUV market.
All-Wheel Drive and Off-Road Performance
The Subaru Forester’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive stands out. This system provides excellent grip and handling on tricky terrains.
Whether you’re tackling snow, mud, or rocks, this feature boosts your control and confidence.
It has a 2.5-liter BOXER engine with 182 horsepower, offering a good mix of power and fuel efficiency among compact SUVs.
Safety Ratings and Awards
Subaru focuses on safety with the Forester, earning the IIHS Top Safety Pick Award for 17 years.
It includes EyeSight Driver Assist, enhancing safety during commutes or off-road adventures.
These safety features affirm the Forester’s spot as a leader in automotive safety.
Honda CR-V vs Subaru Forester: Performance Comparison
Fuel economy is key when comparing the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester. Each SUV has unique engine specs and efficiency ratings.
Depending on your driving needs, one might suit you better in power and fuel efficiency balance.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
The Honda CR-V has a standard engine with 190 horsepower. It gets an EPA-estimated 28 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway.
If you choose the turbocharged version, you’ll see improved performance but at an extra cost.
The Subaru Forester, with its 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® engine, makes 182 horsepower. It has a fuel efficiency of 26 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway.
Although both are close in efficiency, the CR-V slightly leads, making it better for daily use.
The Subaru Forester shines off-road, thanks to Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and X-MODE®. These features help it perform well in tough conditions.
This might be attractive if you like to explore off the beaten track. Both SUVs can tow up to 1,500 lbs when properly equipped.
Thus, when comparing Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester, each stands out for different reasons.
The CR-V offers better fuel efficiency, while the Forester is geared towards off-road adventures.
Interior Comfort and Space
Choosing an SUV means thinking a lot about how comfy it is inside and how much room it offers.
The Honda CR-V and the Subaru Forester each have their strengths, especially when we talk about room for passengers and cool tech.
Knowing these key points can help you decide between the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester.
Passenger Volume Comparison
The Honda CR-V shines with a rear legroom of 41.0 inches and a total space of 105.9 cubic feet. This gives plenty of room for everyone, but the Subaru Forester goes a bit further with 110.8 cubic feet.
Though the Forester’s rear legroom is 39.4 inches, its design makes sure there’s a lot of headroom (39.6 inches). This means comfort on long trips for all passengers.
Infotainment System Features
The tech inside both SUVs caters to what drivers today want. The Subaru Forester boasts a large 11.6-inch touchscreen.
It comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making connections and entertainment easy while driving.
On the other hand, the Honda CR-V’s basic setup includes a 7-inch screen on lower trims. This might not catch the eye of those who love tech.
The big difference in screen size could sway your choice, depending on how important tech is to you while driving.
| Feature | Honda CR-V | Subaru Forester |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Legroom | 41.0 inches | 39.4 inches |
| Total Passenger Volume | 105.9 cubic feet | 110.8 cubic feet |
| Headroom | 38.2 inches | 39.6 inches |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 7.0 inches (up to 9 inches on higher trims) | 11.6 inches |
Reliability and Resale Value
The Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester are well-regarded in the SUV market. Subaru is often seen as more reliable.
For Subaru, owners reported 198 issues per 100 vehicles versus Honda’s 206. Honda leads slightly in predicted reliability, scoring 70, while Subaru is close behind at 69, says Consumer Reports.
Maintenance Costs and Durability
Annual maintenance is cheaper for the Honda CR-V. It costs about $370 yearly, compared to the Subaru Forester’s $500.
This information is useful in reviewing the Honda CR-V and understanding potential costs.
As for resale value, Subaru does better; it keeps 63.64% of its value after five years. The Honda CR-V retains about 66.4% of its value.
A table summarizing the reliability and maintenance details for both vehicles follows:
| Aspect | Honda CR-V | Subaru Forester |
|---|---|---|
| Reliability Rating | 4.5 out of 5.0 | 3.5 out of 5.0 |
| Annual Maintenance Cost | $370 | $500 |
| Average Owner Satisfaction Score | 82 | 83 |
| 5-Year Resale Value | 66.4% | 63.64% |
| Total Known Problems | 2,629 | 1,142 |
Both the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester are great picks. Honda has lower maintenance costs, while Subaru shines in resale value. These points are key in deciding which suits your needs better.
Pricing and Value Proposition
The Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester are both great SUVs, but their prices differ slightly. The Honda CR-V starts at about $30,000.
The Subaru Forester is a bit cheaper, beginning around $29,500. This $500 difference makes the Forester more appealing to those watching their budget.
Both models offer unique features that add value, especially when you think about long-term costs.
Initial Price Comparison
The price difference at first glance seems small. Yet, the features each SUV offers can greatly affect your spending.
The Subaru Forester has all-wheel drive included. But for the Honda CR-V, adding all-wheel drive pushes the price up to around $33,000.
This makes the Forester a smarter pick financially, especially if you want better traction and control.
| Feature | 2025 Honda CR-V | 2025 Subaru Forester |
|---|---|---|
| MSRP | $30,000 | $29,500 |
| Standard All-Wheel Drive | Optional | Standard |
| Engine Power | 190 hp | 182 hp |
| Torque | 179 lb-ft | 176 lb-ft |
| Fuel Economy (City/Highway/Combined) | 28/34/30 MPG | 26/33/29 MPG |
| Cargo Capacity (with seats down) | 128.0 cubic feet | 76.1 cubic feet |
| Resale Value | High | Moderate |
Overall, both the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester are top contenders for the best compact SUV title.
The Honda has more standard features, but the Forester’s price and included all-wheel drive make it a strong competitor.
Thinking about these points will help you pick the SUV that best fits your budget and needs.
Conclusion
When comparing the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester, both SUVs have their strengths.
The 2024 Honda CR-V grabs attention with its high-tech features, excellent fuel efficiency of up to 30 MPG combined, and roomy interior.
It’s perfect for those who value comfort and practicality. The car has a cargo space of 76.5 cubic feet and offers 40.4 inches of rear legroom, making it great for families who need space.
The Subaru Forester, on the other hand, appeals to adventure lovers and safety-conscious drivers. It’s been a Top Safety Pick+ for 11 years in a row.
With its standard all-wheel drive, it achieves 29 MPG combined. Plus, 98% of the Foresters sold in the last ten years are still on the road.
This shows it’s not just capable of handling different terrains but also reliable. Your final decision will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
To get a better feel for each vehicle, try test driving both the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester.
Each has its own set of features and benefits that cater to various lifestyles. Depending on what you’re looking for, either could be the ideal family SUV for you.
FAQs
What is the horsepower of the Honda CR-V?
The Honda CR-V has a 1.5-liter turbo engine. It makes 190 horsepower.
Does the Subaru Forester have all-wheel drive?
Yes, the Subaru Forester has Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. This makes it stable and gives good traction.
Which SUV has better fuel economy, the Honda CR-V or Subaru Forester?
The Honda CR-V gets better mileage with 34 MPG on the highway and 28 MPG in the city. The Forester gets 33 MPG on the highway and 26 MPG in the city.
How much cargo space does the Honda CR-V offer?
The Honda CR-V gives you up to 76.5 cubic feet of space. That’s with the back seats down.
What safety features are available in the Subaru Forester?
The Subaru Forester has EyeSight Driver Assist technology. It’s also been a Top Safety Pick for 17 years in a row.
What are the maintenance costs for the Honda CR-V compared to the Subaru Forester?
Yearly, the Honda CR-V needs about 0 for upkeep. The Subaru Forester costs more, around 0 annually.
What technology features can I expect in the Subaru Forester?
The Subaru Forester has an 11.6-inch touchscreen. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for easy phone use.
