2022 Subaru Forester vs 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Limited AWD, priced at $45,341, presented a blend of rugged styling and practical interior design. Despite its fully loaded status, the RAV4 Hybrid's exterior did not distinguish itself significantly from rental car lot models, lacking the larger alloy wheels of its non-hybrid counterpart. The electronic all-wheel-drive system was not suited for a Trail trim level, unlike the non-hybrid version. Inside, the RAV4 Hybrid offered a stylish and functional cabin, though the quality varied with a mix of impressive materials and hard plastics. A rattle from the license plate on the tailgate was noted during the test drive.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru Forester, particularly in the Wilderness trim, emphasized utility and practicality over aesthetics. Priced from $29,495 to $40,595, the Forester Wilderness featured a white exterior with dark grey, water-repellant StarTex simulated leather interior. The Wilderness trim added a suspension lift and protective cladding, giving it a rugged appearance. Inside, the Forester focused on function, with a cabin that combined hard plastics and soft surfaces, exuding quality construction. The 8-inch Starlink infotainment system was user-friendly, though the presence of three display screens was less than ideal. The Forester's new front styling improved its looks, but the Wilderness's cladding and matte-black details were not universally appealing.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder gas engine with front and rear electric motors, producing 219 horsepower. This setup provided a standard AWD drivetrain and several driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, Trail, and EV. The RAV4 Hybrid's curb weight ranged from 1,680 to 1,720 kilograms, and it achieved a fuel efficiency of 6.0 litres per 100 kilometres, with a tested average of 5.9 L/100 km. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) operated smoothly, and the regenerative braking system was effective. However, the tires offered low grip, affecting cornering performance. The RAV4 Hybrid excelled as a daily driver, absorbing bumps and maintaining a flat cornering stance, though it was not suited for spirited driving.

The 2022 Subaru Forester retained its 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. The Wilderness model featured a CVT with a 25% increase in initial torque supply, doubling its towing capacity to 1,360 kilograms. The Forester averaged 9.1 L/100 km in combined driving. The CVT simulated an automatic transmission with eight programmed ratios, and the SI-Drive system enhanced responsiveness. The dual-function X-Mode system improved off-road capability, while the re-tuned suspension and longer springs in the Wilderness trim increased ground clearance to 22.9 centimetres. The Forester excelled in various driving environments, though engine power and wind noise were noted drawbacks.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offered comfort with an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front cushions, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Rear-seat legroom and foot space were decent, with a reclining backrest. The dashboard featured oversized climate control knobs and a user-friendly infotainment system. Storage was ample, with useful shelves and a roomy cargo area of 1,059 litres, expandable to 1,977 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Subaru Forester prioritized functionality, with easy entry and exit due to tall seating hip points. The StarTex upholstery was water-resistant, and the Wilderness trim included all-weather floor mats and a rubber cargo mat. The upgraded roof rails accommodated a three-person roof tent. Comfort levels were high, with excellent visibility and rear air conditioning vents. Cargo space measured 818 litres without the sunroof, expandable to 2,101 litres with the rear seats folded. The squared-off cargo area and new ceiling cargo hooks enhanced practicality.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offered infotainment systems with 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreens, featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The top-tier system included an 11-speaker JBL audio system and dynamic navigation. The 8-inch display was user-friendly, with shortcut buttons and stereo knobs. Camera-based technology included a 360-degree surround-view camera system and a camera rearview mirror.

The 2022 Subaru Forester featured a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims offered an 8-inch screen, navigation, and a Harman Kardon audio system. The Wilderness trim included a 180-degree forward-view camera. The navigation system was helpful, though a breadcrumb function was desired. The voice recognition system was inconsistent in effectiveness.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The system was generally effective, though lane-tracing and adaptive cruise control had some issues. The RAV4 Hybrid earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and top marks from the IIHS, except for its headlights.

The 2022 Subaru Forester introduced EyeSight 4.0, with improved accuracy and a new Automatic Emergency Steering system. Standard features included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The Forester earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with a four-star rating for rollover resistance. The IIHS had not yet rated the 2022 model, but it was expected to retain the 2021 model's "Top Safety Pick+" rating.