2024 Toyota RAV4 vs 2025 Subaru Forester

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 aimed to project a rugged appearance, with its aggressive front design and angular grey body cladding. Despite its tough exterior, the performance didn't quite match the visual promise. The TRD Off-Road trim in the U.S. featured utility-style roof racks and faux skid plates, while the Canadian lineup topped with the Limited trim. The interior was practical, with utility-focused features like easy-clean surfaces and robust storage options. Higher trims offered more upscale interiors with contrast-colour choices.

In contrast, the 2025 Subaru Forester focused on practicality and capability, with a refreshed design that smoothed out its previous ruggedness. The Forester Sport trim featured bronze accents and 19-inch wheels, adding a mature touch. The vehicle maintained its large-greenhouse shape, with geometric wheel arches and a more decisive window design. The interior offered a more intentional look, with StarTex material in the Sport trim and genuine leather in higher trims, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD in Canada. The Multi-Terrain Select system offered various driving modes, and the vehicle's ground clearance ranged from 20.6 to 21.6 cm. Despite its power, the engine was loud and unrefined, though the transmission was dependable. Fuel economy was rated at 8.5 L/100 km combined, with the hybrid version offering better efficiency.

The 2025 Subaru Forester had a 2.5-litre Boxer engine with 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT and standard AWD. The engine was quieter than expected, especially at lower speeds. Subaru's X-Mode system, with Hill Descent Control, enhanced stability on challenging terrain. The Forester's performance was stable and confident off-road, though acceleration was modest. Fuel economy was rated at 9.1 L/100 km city, 7.2 highway, and 8.2 combined, with a hybrid version anticipated.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 prioritized utility with practical interior features like storage shelves and rubberized controls. The SofTex upholstery and power-adjustable driver's seat added comfort, while heated features prepared it for winter. The rear seat offered good legroom, and the cargo space was competitive, with 1,059 litres expanding to 1,977 litres with seats folded.

The 2025 Subaru Forester introduced a hands-free power liftgate and increased cargo space slightly, offering 779 litres with seats up and 1,957 litres with them down. The interior featured a dark headliner and heated front seats, with power adjustments available on higher trims. The Forester's cargo area was equipped with heavy-duty hooks, and the spacious second row contributed to its practicality.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured the Toyota Audio Multimedia system with an 8-inch or 10.5-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and various connected services. While sophisticated, the system had some usability issues, such as a lack of a multi-panel Home screen and challenges with voice commands. The available digital rear-view mirror provided a clear view when the vehicle was packed.

The 2025 Subaru Forester introduced an 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus system on all but the base trim, with wireless smartphone integration and a navigation system on higher trims. The Harman Kardon sound system was standard on top trims. Subaru's Starlink services added features like Valet Mode and Remote Vehicle Configuration, enhancing the vehicle's technological appeal.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 included Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, with adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist. However, it lost its Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS due to updated testing criteria. The system was generally effective, though some features were overly cautious.

The 2025 Subaru Forester featured Subaru's EyeSight technology with enhancements for 2025, including a wider field of view and an electric brake booster. Emergency Stop Assist was available on higher trims. While not yet tested by the IIHS or NHTSA, the 2024 model's high safety ratings suggested strong performance for the new model.