2022 Subaru Forester vs 2023 Audi Q5

CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Subaru Forester 6 out of 10 and the 2023 Audi Q5 7 out of 10 for look and feel.

The 2022 Subaru Forester comes in base, Premium, Sport, Wilderness, Limited, and Touring trim levels. Prices ranged from $25,195 to $35,295 when new. The Forester Wilderness, priced at $33,945, features a suspension lift, higher ride height, and water-repellant StarTex simulated leather interior. The exterior styling of the Wilderness model includes massive protective cladding and a matte-black hood decal, giving it a rugged appearance. The interior emphasizes function over form, with an 8-inch Starlink infotainment system and physical knobs and buttons for easy access.

The 2023 Audi Q5 offers a classy and sporty exterior with subtle curves and angular accents. It is available in two body styles: the regular Q5 SUV and the Q5 Sportback with a sloping rear roofline for a sleeker silhouette. The interior features a fairly simple layout with leather seating, heated front seats, and a 10-inch touchscreen atop the dash. The Q5 provides good technology and materials quality, with a focus on driver comfort and spaciousness for both front and rear passengers.

CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Subaru Forester 8 out of 10 and the 2023 Audi Q5 6 out of 10 for performance.

The Forester is equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continually variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive (AWD). The Wilderness model features a 25% increase in initial torque supply and a towing capacity of 3,000 pounds. The Forester Wilderness offers improved ground clearance, longer springs, shocks, and all-terrain tires, making it suitable for off-road adventures.

The Q5 is available with three engine options, including a plug-in hybrid powertrain (PHEV) with 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The base 40 TFSI engine produces 201 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, while the midrange 45 TFSI increases output to 261 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. The Q5 offers precise steering, good handling, and a balance between compliance and cornering, providing a confident driving experience.

CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Subaru Forester 9 out of 10 and the 2023 Audi Q5 7 out of 10 for form and function.

The Forester offers tall seating hip points for easy entry and exit, water-resistant StarTex upholstery, and upgraded roof rails with integrated tie-down locations. The Forester provides high comfort levels, ample storage space, and generous cargo capacity, making it a versatile and functional choice for daily use.

The Q5 features a user-friendly infotainment system, good outward visibility, and plenty of space for passengers and personal items. It offers ample cargo space and a well-managed cabin, providing a comfortable and functional environment for occupants.

CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Subaru Forester 7 out of 10 and the 2023 Audi Q5 6 out of 10 for technology.

The Forester includes a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and Starlink connected services. Higher trims offer an 8-inch screen with navigation, a Harman Kardon premium sound system, and a 180-degree forward-view camera, enhancing the technology and entertainment features.

All Q5 models come standard with a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Bang & Olufsen audio system on higher trims. The Q5 offers a smartphone app for remote monitoring and feature control, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a customizable digital instrument panel for added convenience and connectivity.

CarGurus experts rate the 2022 Subaru Forester 9 out of 10 and the 2023 Audi Q5 7 out of 10 for safety.

Subaru debuts its next-generation EyeSight 4.0 safety system in the 2022 Forester, featuring advanced driving assistance systems and a rear-seat reminder system. The Forester earns a 5-star overall crash-test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and is expected to retain the "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The Q5 was awarded five out of five stars for overall, frontal, and side protection by NHTSA and named a Top Safety Pick+ by IIHS. It comes with standard advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control, with additional driver assistance features available on higher trims.