How Does the 2017 Subaru Forester Compare to the 2017 Honda CR-V and 2017 Toyota RAV4?


These days crossover SUV segment is perhaps the most popular out of all the vehicles on the road, so when it comes to buying a new crossover SUV, you want to make sure you're getting the most bang for your buck. For years, the Subaru Forester has been the go-to crossover SUV for families, off-road adventurers and daily commuters alike because of the high level of versatility and functionality it has to offer. If you're currently looking for a vehicle that can handle everything you throw at it and more, the new 2017 Forester is a great option for you. In order to highlight what the Forester does best, we're going to compare it to other popular vehicles within its segment, including the 2017 Honda CR-V and 2017 Toyota RAV4.

2017 Subaru Forester vs. 2017 Honda CR-V

  • First off, the new Forester has a lower starting MSRP price tag than the CR-V does, starting at just $22,595 compared to the $24,045 price tag on the CR-V.
  • Every Forester model comes equipped with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, while the CR-V only offers available all-wheel drive which will end up costing you more. All-wheel drive is a must have for drivers looking to get the most confidence out on the road during the unpredictable winters we get here around Erie, PA.
  • Even with all-wheel drive compared to front-wheel drive on the CR-V, both vehicles offer the same estimated fuel economy both in the city and on the highway.
  • The Forester has a smaller turning diameter than the CR-V by almost three inches, allowing you to maneuver more easily in tight spaces.
  • The Forester offers a larger passenger volume than the CR-V does as well with 108.3 cubic feet compared to 105.9 cubic feet.

2017 Subaru Forester vs. 2017 Toyota RAV4

  • The RAV4 has a much higher MSRP starting price than the Forester does. The Forester starts at $22,595 compared to the RAV4 which starts at $24,910.
  • The Forester equips every vehicle with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive while the RAV4 only offers available all-wheel drive which will in turn add to the overall cost.
  • The RAV4 and the Forester both offer a similar 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, and while the RAV4 offers six more horsepower than the Forester, the Forester offers more torque, which translates to better acceleration.
  • The Forester offers a higher estimated fuel economy than the RAV4, with an estimated 26 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway compared to 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
  • The Forester offers more front and rear head room and legroom, as well as slightly more maximum cargo space than the RAV4.
  • The Forester has a higher ground clearance than the RAV4 with 8.4 inches compared to 6.1-inches, making it a great option for snowy Pennsylvania winters and taking on off-road terrain alike..

If you're interested in learning more about the new 2017 Subaru Forester, we welcome you to come join us here at New Motors Subaru today to check out our entire selection of new Forester models in person. Our dealership is conveniently located in Erie, PA and we proudly serve the nearby areas of Jamestown, NY, Ashtabula and Meadville.