2019 Subaru Forester vs 2020 Honda CR-V

The 2019 Subaru Forester was slightly larger and wider than its predecessor, adopting a design reminiscent of the Subaru Ascent. This design choice was logical, as the Ascent was previously described as a larger version of the Forester. Inside, the Forester's cabin prioritized functionality over aesthetics, offering a modern look without sacrificing utility. Available in Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Touring trims, the Forester featured standard LED headlights, symmetrical all-wheel drive, and the EyeSight driver-assistance system. The base trim was well-equipped with features like a 6.5-inch touchscreen and multifunction display, while higher trims added amenities such as a panoramic moonroof, leather upholstery, and a Harman Kardon premium stereo system.

In contrast, the 2020 Honda CR-V maintained a familiar design, with curvy, car-like lines that echoed Honda's sedan lineup. The CR-V's exterior leaned more towards a station wagon look, defining modern family transportation. Inside, the CR-V's interior was a mix of textures and materials, with upscale touches like wood-look trim and leather upholstery in higher trims. However, these clashed with some low-quality plastics, reminding drivers of the CR-V's commodity car roots. The CR-V offered four trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring, with all-wheel drive as an option. The CR-V's design focused on practicality, with features like a retractable moonroof and low-profile roof rails on the Touring model.

The 2019 Subaru Forester featured a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder boxer engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. This engine, while an improvement over the previous model, lacked the torque needed for quick acceleration. The Forester's symmetrical all-wheel drive was paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), prioritizing efficiency over performance. Despite its underwhelming acceleration, the Forester offered a smooth ride, with minimal body roll and excellent suspension for absorbing road bumps. Fuel economy was rated at 26 mpg city, 33 highway, and 29 combined.

The 2020 Honda CR-V, on the other hand, was equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, delivering 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a CVT, provided a responsive and fuel-efficient driving experience. The CR-V's road manners were excellent, with nimble handling and minimal body roll. Its lightweight design contributed to its agility and fuel efficiency, with FWD models achieving 30 mpg combined and AWD models 29 mpg. The CR-V's performance was further enhanced by its Sport drive mode, which improved throttle response and acceleration.

The 2019 Subaru Forester offered impressive interior space, with a class-leading 76.1 cubic feet of cargo space in the base model and 70.9 cubic feet in other trims. Its larger wheelbase provided more backseat space, and the 8.7 inches of ground clearance was ideal for off-road conditions. The Forester's cabin was designed with functionality in mind, featuring numerous storage compartments and excellent visibility.

The 2020 Honda CR-V excelled in interior packaging, offering a spacious cabin with ample head- and legroom. Its cargo compartment matched the Volkswagen Tiguan in volume, with 75.8 cubic feet of space. The CR-V's clever storage solutions included a deep center console and a two-position load floor in the rear. The CR-V's design made it easy to live with, accommodating various storage needs.

The 2019 Subaru Forester's Starlink infotainment system was available with either a 6.5-inch or 8-inch screen, offering responsive performance and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was intuitive, with seamless transitions between Starlink and smartphone apps. The EyeSight suite of driver-assistance features included Lead Vehicle Alert, enhancing safety and convenience.

In contrast, the 2020 Honda CR-V's infotainment system showed its age, with a 5-inch screen in the LX trim and a 7-inch screen in higher trims. The system lacked hard buttons, making it challenging to operate. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available only with the larger screen, and the smartphone apps felt tacked on. The CR-V did offer ample USB ports and a wireless phone charger in the Touring trim.

The 2019 Subaru Forester came standard with the EyeSight driver-assistance suite, including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. The Forester also featured a full array of airbags and a reversing camera, ensuring a high level of safety.

The 2020 Honda CR-V included the Honda Sensing system as standard, offering forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, road-departure mitigation, and adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assist. The CR-V earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, with the Touring trim featuring LED headlights for improved visibility.