2025 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2025 Subaru Forester

The 2025 Subaru Forester underwent a noticeable visual transformation, focusing on a more streamlined and generic appearance. While it retained its function-first design ethos, the styling updates were evident, with smoother lines and a less distinct Subaru DNA. The Forester Sport model, which was tested, featured bronze trim accents and 19-inch wheels, adding a mature touch to its aesthetic. The vehicle's side profile maintained the classic Forester shape but introduced geometric wheel arches and a more decisive window design. Inside, the Forester offered a more intentional cabin design, with the Sport trim featuring StarTex upholstery and brown contrast stitching, echoing the exterior accents.

In contrast, the 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid, particularly the RX 500h F Sport Black Line, presented a more luxurious yet understated design. Despite its $90,000 price tag, the RX's appearance was unremarkable, with a massive front grille and subtle orange brake calipers as standout features. The RX lineup offered three hybrid models, each with distinct powertrains and efficiency levels. The RX 500h, with its turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension, aimed for a sporty appeal but fell short in dynamic capability. The interior boasted quality materials and ambient lighting, though some ergonomic choices, like the steering wheel controls, were less than ideal.

The 2025 Subaru Forester featured a 2.5-litre Boxer four-cylinder engine, producing 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain, paired with a Lineartonic CVT and Symmetrical AWD, provided a stable and confident driving experience, especially on challenging terrains. The Forester's X-Mode system, standard in Canada, enhanced traction and stability, making it suitable for off-road adventures. Despite its improvements in noise reduction, the Forester's acceleration remained modest, with fuel economy rated at 9.1 L/100 km in the city and 7.2 on the highway.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid offered three distinct models, each with varying performance levels. The RX 350h, the most efficient, delivered 246 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque, while the RX 450h+ PHEV provided 304 hp and a 60 km electric-only range. The RX 500h, with its turbocharged engine, produced 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in 6.2 seconds. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, averaging 13.5 L/100 km during testing. The RX 500h's sport-tuned suspension and Direct4 AWD system offered a firm ride but lacked dynamic communication, making it more about straight-line acceleration than overall driving satisfaction.

The 2025 Subaru Forester introduced a hands-free power liftgate, enhancing its practicality. The cargo space increased slightly, offering 779 litres with rear seats up and 1,957 litres with them folded. The Forester's interior featured a dark headliner and standard heated front seats, with higher trims adding power-adjustable and ventilated seats. Despite its roomy second row, the Forester's cargo capacity was slightly less than some competitors, like the Toyota RAV4.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid focused on occupant comfort and practical cargo space. The RX 500h's front seats, though snug, offered heating and ventilation, while the rear seats provided ample room and comfort. The RX's cargo space measured 838 litres with seats up and 1,308 litres with them folded. Interior storage was practical, though some compartments lacked lining, potentially causing noise. The hands-free power liftgate and power-reclining rear seats added convenience, but the cargo cover could be cumbersome when loading larger items.

The 2025 Subaru Forester featured an 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus infotainment system, standard on all but the base trim, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims included a navigation system and an 11-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. Subaru's Starlink connected services offered additional capabilities, such as Valet Mode and Remote Vehicle Configuration.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid boasted high-tech features, including digital key functionality and a camera-based digital rearview mirror. The RX 500h's 14-inch touchscreen display and Lexus Interface infotainment system provided a user-friendly experience, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the steering wheel controls were distracting and challenging to use. The RX also offered a 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, though some glitches were noted during testing.

The 2025 Subaru Forester included advanced safety features, such as Emergency Stop Assist and Subaru's EyeSight suite. While adaptive cruise control was standard, Emergency Stop Assist was limited to higher trims. The Forester's safety enhancements included a wider field of view and an electric brake booster. Although crash-test ratings for the 2025 model were unavailable, the 2024 Forester received high marks from both the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems. Proactive Driving Assist and a surround-view camera were notable features, though some quirks were observed during testing. The RX received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA, but the IIHS rated it poorly in a specific frontal-impact test.