2022 Subaru Forester vs 2021 Honda CR-V

In terms of exterior appearance, the 2021 Honda CR-V did not stand out much from its competitors. By design, compact crossovers seemed quite similar, and the CR-V was no exception. Despite the market's subtle variations, its daylight opening—or the side window shapes—remained almost identical to many other crossovers. This consistency made distinguishing the CR-V based on looks quite challenging.

A few design elements, like the grille and select chromed plastic features, differentiated the CR-V slightly. However, no buyer would likely choose the CR-V solely for its looks. Honda offered the CR-V in eight colors, but five of these were differing shades of gray, black, and white. The more exciting color options, like Obsidian Blue Pearl, Aegean Blue Metallic, and Radiant Red Metallic, were typically reserved for higher trims. In fact, a look at a sizeable local dealership's inventory revealed a predominance of the duller white, with scarce options for vibrant shades.

Inside, the CR-V was available in black, gray, and ivory cloth or leather depending on the trim. Higher trims benefited from materials like wood panels and additional chrome, lending a more sophisticated look. The interior design featured sharp details, particularly on seat edges and headrests, offering a modern aesthetic that some competitors lacked. Yet, vehicles like the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson offered more distinctive styling, especially in mid-tier trims.

The 2022 Subaru Forester, particularly with its new Wilderness trim, didn’t fare better in distinguishing itself aesthetically. A visit to Bend, Oregon, highlighted this model’s practical but rather homely appearance. Despite rugged enhancements like a suspension lift for increased ride height and abundant protective cladding, the Wilderness trim was likened to a "racoon on wheels." Its outdoor-focused modifications were a hit with some enthusiasts, yet the oversized cladding likely wasn't a primary selling point.

Internally, the Forester emphasized functionality over visual appeal. The Wilderness trim featured copper-colored stitching and water-resistant StarTex simulated leather interiors, designed to withstand rugged outdoor activities. Though practical, these interiors often felt somewhat cheap and dated. However, the structuring of the cabin suggested both quality construction and clear purpose.

Overall, the 2022 Forester’s newly retuned suspension, improved ground clearance, and changes for specific trims made it visually acceptable. But vehicles like the Wilderness trim might only appeal to niche buyers looking for practical overlanding capabilities.

Performance-wise, the 2021 Honda CR-V was built for smooth and predictable driving rather than exhilarating acceleration. All trims featured a 190-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Road tests pegged its acceleration at about 7.8 seconds to 60 mph, a reasonable figure for its class. However, it wasn’t notably faster than other compact crossovers. The CVT transmission offered a smooth but less engaging driving experience compared to the eight-speed automatics found in competitors like the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson.

The CR-V came standard with front-wheel drive, though all-wheel drive was available at an extra cost, unlike the Subaru Forester’s standard AWD. Its unitized body structure and MacPherson strut-front and multi-link-rear suspension setup provided predictable handling and decent ride quality, aligning with class standards.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru Forester offered driving dynamics that emphasized utility and practicality. Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produced 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, providing adequate power especially near sea level. While the vehicle struggled for breath at higher altitudes, where a turbocharger would be beneficial, the engine's performance remained competitive.

The Forester’s CVT included a design enhancement in the Wilderness trim, allowing a 25% increase in initial torque supply and doubling its towing capacity to 3,000 pounds. Its fuel economy, estimated by the EPA at 26 mpg combined, remained consistent during test drives.

Subaru’s dual-function X-Mode system offered greater control over different terrains, essential for buyers interested in off-roading. In dynamic driving environments, both in urban and rugged terrains, the Forester held its own impressively, although the lack of engine power and excessive wind noise at higher speeds were notable downsides.

For everyday practical usage, the 2021 Honda CR-V balanced form and function effectively. It could comfortably seat five passengers with 102.9 cubic feet of passenger volume, more spacious than competitors like the Toyota RAV4. Cargo space was also generous at 75.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, accommodating a substantial amount of gear.

Access to the cargo area varied by trim. Lower trims required manual operation of the tailgate, whereas the EX-L and Touring trims offered power and hands-free tailgate options, respectively. The CR-V lacked standard roof rails except in the top-tier Touring trim, contrasting with the Forester’s broader availability of this feature.

The 2022 Subaru Forester excelled in functionality. Its tall seating hip points ensured easy entry and exit, which was conducive for all age groups. The Wilderness trim’s rugged details, such as water-resistant StarTex upholstery and all-weather floor mats, added to its practical nature, though at the cost of less comfort, particularly on hot days.

The Forester’s cargo area offered 28.9 cubic feet without the panoramic sunroof and 26.9 cubic feet with it. These figures were lower compared to the CR-V but still practical due to its well-shaped cargo space and new hooks for securing loads. Folding the rear seats expanded its cargo volume to 74.2 cubic feet (69.1 with the sunroof), roughly on par with the CR-V’s cargo space, making it one of the roomiest vehicles in its class.

The 2021 Honda CR-V came with varying degrees of technological sophistication. The base LX featured a modest 5-inch color screen limited to Bluetooth connectivity. Other trims, from Special Edition to Touring, boasted a 7-inch high-definition touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Audio systems improved from a 180-watt six-speaker setup in the lower trims to a 300-watt system with a subwoofer in the Touring trim. The EX and subsequent trims also included added features like Sirius XM, HD radio, and multiple charging ports.

Subaru’s 2022 Forester was technologically advanced, even in its base model. The initial offering included a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, satellite radio, and HD Radio. Upgrading to Premium trim and above enhanced the system with an 8-inch screen, navigation, and a Harman Kardon premium sound system. The Wilderness trim added practical features like a 180-degree forward-view camera for off-roading.

One standout technology feature was the PIN Code Access, allowing owners to leave their key fobs behind and use a PIN to re-enter the vehicle, which was ideal for outdoor activities.

Safety was a hallmark for both vehicles. The 2021 Honda CR-V had earned a five-star overall crash test rating from the NHTSA and was a Top Safety Pick according to the IIHS. However, it fell short of the highest Top Safety Pick+ rating due to varying headlight evaluations and an acceptable rating for its LATCH system. Honda’s comprehensive suite of safety features, Honda Sensing, was standard across all trims, ensuring advanced safety technology was accessible to all buyers.

For the 2022 Subaru Forester, the new EyeSight 4.0 safety system significantly improved its driver assistance capabilities. With a broader field of vision and smoother operation, it included features like automatic emergency steering, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. One hiccup occurred during testing when all safety system warnings illuminated simultaneously, though this was not replicated in further assessments.

The Forester also featured a rear-seat reminder, blind-spot monitoring, and the optional DriverFocus distraction mitigation system. The NHTSA had given the Forester a five-star overall rating, and it was expected to maintain its IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating.