2022 Subaru Forester vs 2021 Toyota Venza

The 2021 Toyota Venza, when introduced, was often likened to a Lexus in terms of its design. Critics noted its resemblance to the Lexus LF-1 Limitless concept, with its sleek grille and elongated profile, which blurred the lines between the two brands. The Venza was available in three trim levels—LE, XLE, and Limited—and offered a choice of seven paint colours, though not all were available across every trim. Standard features included dual chrome-tipped exhausts, LED lighting, and 18-inch alloy wheels, with the base LE model boasting a wireless charging pad, dual-zone climate control, and an 8-inch infotainment screen. The XLE and Limited trims added more luxurious touches, such as a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and a Star Gaze panoramic roof.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru Forester, particularly in its Wilderness trim, emphasized functionality over form. The Wilderness model featured a suspension lift, higher ride height, and protective cladding, giving it a rugged appearance. Inside, the Forester prioritized practicality with water-repellant StarTex simulated leather and all-weather floor mats. The interior was designed for ease of use, with intuitive controls and a focus on durability. The Forester's infotainment system, even in base trim, included a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while higher trims offered an 8-inch screen and a Harman Kardon sound system. The Wilderness trim also included a 180-degree forward-view camera, enhancing its off-road capabilities.

The 2021 Toyota Venza was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with a lithium-ion battery pack, delivering a combined 219 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque. This hybrid system, coupled with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (e-CVT), provided smooth acceleration, though it was not particularly rapid. The Venza's handling was confident, and its all-wheel-drive system ensured stability. It excelled in fuel efficiency, achieving an estimated 5.9 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 6.1 L/100 km combined, outperforming competitors like the Murano and Blazer. Toyota backed its hybrid powertrain with a 10-year/240,000-kilometre warranty.

The 2022 Subaru Forester continued with its 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. While it lacked a turbocharger, the Forester's continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel-drive system provided adequate performance. The Wilderness model featured a CVT design that increased initial torque supply by 25%, doubling its towing capacity to 1,360 kilograms. The Forester's fuel consumption was estimated at 9.0 litres per 100 kilometres combined. Its dual-function X-Mode system and re-tuned suspension enhanced its off-road capabilities, making it a compelling choice for adventurous drivers.

Inside the 2021 Toyota Venza, the cabin offered a unique design with premium appointments, including piano black capacitive buttons and a deep centre console with various controls and ports. The seating was comfortable for both front and rear passengers, with ample headroom and a spacious feel. However, the Venza's cargo space was limited to 816 litres, about 60% of the RAV4's capacity, though it was still sufficient for daily use.

The 2022 Subaru Forester excelled in functionality, with easy entry and exit due to its tall seating hip points. The interior featured water-resistant StarTex upholstery and practical storage solutions, including upgraded roof rails and a full-size spare tire. The Forester offered 818 litres of cargo space without the panoramic sunroof, expanding to 2,101 litres with the rear seats folded. Its squared-off cargo area and new ceiling-mounted cargo hooks added to its practicality, making it one of the roomiest compact SUVs.

The 2021 Toyota Venza featured an 8-inch infotainment system in the LE trim, while the XLE and Limited trims boasted a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The Entune system, though improved, was not the most user-friendly, requiring multiple menu trips for certain functions. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a nine-speaker JBL audio system in higher trims. Toyota's connected services included Safety Connect and Remote Connect, providing roadside assistance and remote vehicle access.

The 2022 Subaru Forester's base trim included a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims offered an 8-inch screen with navigation and a Harman Kardon sound system. The Wilderness trim featured a 180-degree forward-view camera, enhancing its off-road capabilities. The infotainment system was intuitive, though a breadcrumb function for navigation would have been beneficial.

The 2021 Toyota Venza came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering features like pre-collision warning, lane-departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. It also included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Venza received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Subaru Forester introduced EyeSight 4.0, with improved camera-based driver assist technology. It included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The Forester also featured a rear-seat reminder system, blind-spot monitoring, and DriverFocus technology in higher trims. It earned a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA, with a Top Safety Pick+ rating expected from the IIHS.