2025 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2025 Subaru Forester: Compact SUV Showdown

The 2025 Toyota RAV4 and 2025 Subaru Forester are both popular compact SUVs, but which should you choose? Each commands attention with slightly different strengths. The RAV4, available in 13 trims, offers great performance, fuel-efficient engine options, and a modern exterior design. This compact SUV is your ride if you seek affordability, style, and versatility. Available in 10 trim levels, the spacious Forester offers a practical cabin, a comfortable ride, and excellent ground clearance. Let’s compare the 2025 Subaru Forester versus Toyota RAV4 specs and explore which SUV is right for you.

Toyota RAV4 vs. Subaru Forester Pricing

In the Subaru versus Toyota price point contest, the RAV4 offers a lower overall price and a broader range of trims and hybrid options. The 2025 Toyota RAV4 lineup starts at an MSRP of $29,250 for the base LE trim. Higher trims, such as the Limited gasoline trim, reach $37,555. The top-end Hybrid Limited starts at $40,605, and the Plug-in Hybrid SE at $44,265. You can get an instant trade-in estimate at Keith Pierson Toyota to enjoy substantial savings on your next vehicle. The 2025 Subaru Forester’s base model starts at an MSRP of $29,995, with the top-tier Touring Hybrid trim priced at $41,695.

Subaru Forester vs. Toyota RAV4 Performance

The Toyota RAV4 offers three powerful engine options across four gasoline, seven hybrid, and two plug-in hybrid models. The Subaru Forester provides a gasoline engine for six trim levels and a hybrid powertrain for four models.

Toyota RAV4 vs. Subaru Forester Gas Engines

Toyota powers all RAV4 models with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine featuring a double overhead camshaft and advanced fuel injection with intelligent dual variable valve timing. It produces 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The Forester provides a 2.5-liter direct-injection four-cylinder horizontal Boxer engine with a dual active valve control system. It generates 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, except for the Wilderness trim that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque.
Overall, the RAV4’s engine offers more power and a complex fuel-injection system for balanced efficiency and performance.  

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs. Subaru Forester Comparison

Toyota boasts a choice between the 2025 RAV4 Hybrid or RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid with all-wheel drive and a continuously variable transmission. Both options feature the 2.5-liter four-cylinder paired with electric motors. The RAV4 Hybrid produces 219 combined net horsepower, and the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid generates 302 net horsepower and an estimated 42-mile all-electric driving range. Subaru offers a hybrid powertrain, which pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor for a combined 194 horsepower, but no plug-in hybrid.

Towing Capacity and Versatility

The 2025 Toyota RAV4 tows up to 1,500 pounds on the gasoline trims and 1,750 pounds for hybrids, making it well suited for small trailers or recreational gear. Its plug-in hybrid variant tows up to 2,500 pounds, offering flexibility for heavier loads. The 2025 Subaru Forester’s standard trims can tow up to 1,500 pounds. If you require more robust towing capabilities, the Forester Wilderness trim tows up to 3,000 pounds when properly equipped. Compared to the standard Forester, the RAV4 Hybrid gives you more towing strength without upgrading to a top-tier trim.

Cabin Comfort and Capacity

The 2025 Toyota RAV4’s interior exudes comfort, space, and practicality. Optional upgrades include heated front and rear seats, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic glass roof. The RAV4 showcases a sophisticated, roomy cabin with up to 98.9 cubic feet of passenger space. While the 2025 Subaru Forester provides similar interior space and comfort, Toyota’s attention to detail, available premium finishes, and generous tech features give the RAV4 an edge in the overall cabin experience.

Tech and Connectivity Features

The 2025 RAV4 features a standard 8- or 10.5-inch multimedia infotainment display with smartphone integration and multiple USB ports. Most models feature a 7-inch digital gauge cluster with Amazon Alexa compatibility. High-end models, including the Limited trim and RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid XSE trim, showcase an expansive 12.5-inch customizable digital gauge cluster. Depending on the trim, optional features include a premium 11-speaker JBL audio system, wireless charging, and built-in navigation.

The 2025 Forester is equipped with a standard 7-inch touch screen on base trims and an 11.6-inch screen on upper levels. Hybrid models also feature a  12.3-inch digital cluster.

Safety is a top priority in the 2025 Toyota RAV4, which comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5. While the 2025 Subaru Forester includes a similar set of standard safety tools through its EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, Toyota offers more optional driver-assist features.

Cargo Volume and Versatility

The 2025 Toyota RAV4 provides 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expands to 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded flat. On the other hand, the 2025 Subaru Forester offers 29.6 cubic feet in its base trim and up to 74.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Trims with a panoramic moonroof only come with 27.5 cubic feet behind the seats and 69.1 cubic feet overall.

Which SUV Is More Eco-Conscious and Fuel-Efficient?

If fuel savings matter to you, the 2025 Toyota RAV4 takes the lead. The RAV4 Hybrid delivers an EPA-estimated 38 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, and the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid up to 42 miles of electric-only range before switching to gasoline. The 2025 Forester achieves 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. Toyota’s hybrid and plug-in options deliver more eco-conscious choices.

Test-Drive the RAV4 at Keith Pierson Toyota Today

If you’re looking for a versatile, fuel-efficient SUV that offers a wide range of powertrain options, stronger standard towing, and advanced hybrid technology, the 2025 Toyota RAV4 is for you. Are you ready to explore the latest RAV4 today? Contact us to schedule a test-drive and let us help you drive home in an all-new crossover SUV. In the meantime, check out our latest models online or get preapproved for financing ahead of the rush. Your dream car is within reach at Keith Pierson Toyota in Florida.

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