2021 Toyota 4Runner vs 2021 Subaru Forester

When reflecting on the 2021 Toyota 4Runner, its design didn't aim simply to captivate but to function effectively. Despite only minor updates to its twelve-year-old design, it still appealed with its rugged and timeless aesthetic. The more angular and utilitarian look of the 4Runner found its charm not in sleek modernity but in its practical, no-frills approach to an SUV. Particularly, the two-box design with flared fenders and trapezoidal wheel arches communicated a focus on balance and utility.

In contrast, the 2021 Subaru Forester maintained many design elements from its predecessor, despite a redesign in 2019. The simple, boxy structure of the Forester appeared more conservative but still met the typical SUV buyer's desires. Sport trim levels of the Forester, as tested, added character with orange accents and distinctive wheels, enhancing its relatively humble visuals into something more assertive.

The Toyota 4Runner's performance in rugged terrains highlighted its endurance and robust nature. Equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 offering 270 horsepower and a suite of off-road technology like A-Trac and Crawl Control, the 4Runner excelled in harsh environments, showing prowess in off-road capabilities rarely matched by other vehicles. On regular roads, however, its age and truck-base became apparent with a somewhat cumbersome and less refined drive quality. Fuel efficiency also lagged behind more modern vehicles, emphasizing its preference for the unbeaten path over the highway.

Meanwhile, the Subaru Forester supplied a different kind of performance. Its 2.5-liter boxer engine, producing 182 horsepower, was paired uniquely with a CVT, promoting a smooth albeit not particularly speedy experience. What the Forester lacked in raw power, it made up for with a very capable AWD system as standard, including X-Mode for enhanced off-road capabilities. Its ride was tuned more for comfort, forfeiting some sportiness for a gentler journey on daily commutes.

The 2021 4Runner offered a commendably comfortable interior for passengers, with generous legroom and supportive seats across both rows. Its cargo space was impressive too, offering up to 89.7 cubic feet with the seats down, geared towards families and adventurers who need ample space for gear. The 4Runner's practical design details, such as a sliding cargo deck, also enhanced its utility.

In comparison, the Subaru Forester boasted significant headroom and legroom thanks to its taller design. Cargo capacity was ample as well—76.1 cubic feet with seats folded—an inviting figure for families or outdoor enthusiasts. While lacking some of the 4Runner's more off-road-focused features, the Forester provided a balanced offering that supports both daily errands and occasional adventures.

The 4Runner's Trail Special Edition might not shine with cutting-edge technology, but it wasn't entirely bare-bones. It featured an 8-inch touchscreen with thorough connectivity options like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a necessary adaptation in today's market. The trim also included crucial utilities for adventurous drivers, such as a 120-volt power outlet.

On the other hand, Subaru's Forester provided a robust suite of tech even at lower trims, with all models featuring a compatible and user-friendly infotainment system. Higher trims expanded these offerings to include an 8-inch screen and more premium audio systems. Subaru seemed to offer somewhat more modern tech integration compared to the more utilitarian-focused 4Runner.

Toyota's 4Runner, although robust mechanically, lagged slightly in the most advanced safety technologies and crash-test performance. The inclusion of Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) provided necessary automation like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. However, the absence of features like blind-spot monitoring was noticeable.

Conversely, the Subaru Forester excelled in safety, both in equipment and crash tests. Awarded the highest honors from IIHS and a reassuring safety rating from NHTSA, combined with its standard EyeSight driver-assist technology, made it a top contender for those prioritizing safety. The Forester's added driver-monitoring system further distinguished it within its class for safety-conscious consumers.