2025 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2025 Subaru Forester

When it comes to compact SUVs, the 2025 Toyota RAV4 and the 2025 Subaru Forester continue to dominate the conversation. Both offer family-friendly practicality, all-wheel-drive options, and a reputation for dependability. But for drivers who want standout styling, class-leading tech, and a dynamic driving experience—there’s one clear leader in the segment.

Let’s take a closer look at how these two popular crossovers compare.

The 2025 Toyota RAV4 is powered by a punchy 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that delivers 203 horsepower. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the RAV4 offers smooth, responsive performance whether you’re merging onto the freeway or cruising through backroads. Front-wheel drive is standard, with available all-wheel drive across multiple trims—including Toyota’s advanced Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD system on higher trims like the Adventure and TRD Off-Road.

The 2025 Subaru Forester features a 2.5-liter flat-four engine making 180 horsepower, mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While it comes standard with Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive, the power delivery leans more toward daily comfort than excitement.

Fuel economy also favors the RAV4, with an EPA-estimated 27 mpg city / 35 mpg highway in front-wheel-drive configuration, and impressive hybrid models that push those numbers even higher. Forester’s fuel economy is solid but doesn’t quite match the versatility of the RAV4 lineup.

For drivers wanting the best of both worlds—efficiency and performance—the RAV4 Hybrid and RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid offer power and mileage the Forester simply doesn’t match.

From the outside, the 2025 Toyota RAV4 makes a bold impression. Its chiseled lines, aggressive front fascia, and available two-tone roof treatments give it a sporty, rugged stance that stands out in the crowded compact SUV market. Inside, Toyota delivers a cabin that blends functionality with upscale materials, offering ample headroom, soft-touch surfaces, and thoughtful storage.

The 2025 Subaru Forester offers a more conservative exterior with a focus on practicality. It’s clean and upright, which translates to good outward visibility, but lacks the visual flair of the RAV4’s adventure-ready aesthetic.

Interior space is generous in both vehicles, but the RAV4 edges ahead with more second-row legroom and a lower load floor that makes cargo handling easier. Additionally, Toyota’s available SofTex® synthetic leather seating adds a touch of refinement and durability, ideal for both families and commuters.

Technology is where the 2025 RAV4 truly shines. Every model comes equipped with a large 8-inch touchscreen (or an available 10.5-inch display on higher trims), featuring Toyota’s latest multimedia system. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are standard, as is a crisp digital gauge cluster and available wireless charging pad.

The RAV4 also offers an available 11-speaker JBL® premium audio system, voice-activated navigation, and cloud-based updates—features that elevate the ownership experience.

The 2025 Subaru Forester includes a dual-screen setup with a standard 7-inch infotainment screen or optional 11.6-inch portrait display. While functional, the interface isn’t quite as intuitive, and some users may find the learning curve steeper than Toyota’s user-friendly layout.

Both the RAV4 and Forester are loaded with modern safety technology. The RAV4 comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense™ 3.0, which includes:

The Subaru Forester comes standard with EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, which is similarly robust. However, Toyota’s system benefits from the latest generation updates, offering smoother adaptive cruise behavior and enhanced intersection support.

For added peace of mind, the RAV4 is also available with a digital rearview mirror, panoramic camera system, and Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking.

The 2025 Toyota RAV4 offers a broad range of trims—from the well-equipped entry level trims, to the rugged TRD Off-Road, to the fuel-sipping RAV4 Hybrid and powerful RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid. Whether your focus is performance, efficiency, or everyday comfort, there’s a RAV4 for every lifestyle. Pricing remains competitive across the board, with the RAV4 starting at an MSRP that aligns closely with the Forester, yet offering greater standard horsepower, more trim diversity, and advanced electrified options.

While both the 2025 Toyota RAV4 and 2025 Subaru Forester bring a lot to the table, the RAV4 wins this comparison thanks to its powerful performance, upscale design, cutting-edge tech, and class-leading hybrid options. It’s a crossover that continues to set the bar in the segment.

Schedule your test drive of the 2025 Toyota RAV4 today at Bobby Rahal Toyota in Mechanicsburg, PA and experience the difference for yourself!