2022 Subaru Forester vs 2023 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Subaru Forester was available in several trims, including the base, Premium, Sport, Wilderness, Limited, and Touring. It started at an MSRP of $25,195, with the top-tier Touring model priced at $35,295, excluding a $1,125 destination charge. The Forester came standard with all-wheel drive, a feature that set it apart in its class. The Wilderness trim, tested in the rugged terrains of Bend, Oregon, featured a distinctive design with a suspension lift, matte-black hood decal, and extensive body cladding, giving it a unique, albeit polarizing, appearance. Inside, the Forester emphasized functionality with a straightforward layout, combining hard plastics and soft surfaces. The 8-inch Starlink infotainment system was user-friendly, though the presence of three display screens was less than ideal.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 offered six trim levels, ranging from the budget-friendly RAV4 LE to the more luxurious RAV4 Limited. The Adventure trim, which was tested, featured a bold design with a more aggressive grille, blacked-out wheels, and orange interior accents. While the Adventure trim added visual flair, it lacked the off-road capabilities of the TRD Off-Road variant. The interior was practical, with a frameless rearview mirror adding a touch of sophistication. The RAV4 provided ample storage options, including a shelf above the glove compartment and generous door pockets. However, the back seat was narrower compared to competitors, which could impact passenger comfort.

The 2022 Subaru Forester continued with its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive. The Wilderness model boasted a CVT design that increased initial torque supply by 25%, doubling its towing capacity to 3,000 pounds. The Forester's fuel economy was rated at 26 mpg combined by the EPA, with real-world testing yielding 25.9 mpg. The SUV excelled in various driving conditions, from city streets to off-road trails, thanks to its long-travel suspension and dual-function X-Mode system. However, the lack of a turbocharger left it feeling underpowered at higher altitudes.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which provided a smoother driving experience compared to CVTs found in some competitors. The RAV4 Adventure trim featured all-wheel drive and 19-inch wheels with all-season tires. While it offered a comfortable ride, it lacked the off-road prowess of the TRD Off-Road variant. The RAV4's engine was not as loud as the Forester's boxer engine, but it was still noticeable. Overall, the RAV4's performance was adequate, though not particularly exciting.

The 2022 Subaru Forester prioritized functionality, with easy entry and exit due to its tall seating hip points. The Wilderness trim featured water-resistant StarTex upholstery and all-weather floor mats, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The Forester's interior offered high comfort levels, with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. Cargo space was generous, with 28.9 cubic feet available behind the rear seats and 74.2 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The upgraded roof rails could accommodate a three-person roof tent, enhancing its adventure-ready appeal.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 provided seating for five, with 37.7 inches of headroom in the front and 39.5 inches in the rear. While it offered more rear headroom than the Forester, it fell short in rear legroom and overall width. The RAV4's interior featured practical storage solutions, including a shelf above the glove compartment and large door pockets. Cargo space measured 37.5 cubic feet behind the second row and 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded, placing it in the middle of the pack among competitors.

The 2022 Subaru Forester came equipped with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and Starlink connected services. Higher trims featured an 8-inch screen with navigation and a Harman Kardon premium sound system. The Wilderness trim included a 180-degree forward-view camera, useful for off-roading. The PIN Code Access feature allowed drivers to leave the key fob in the vehicle and re-enter using a PIN code.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 introduced a new infotainment system, with an 8.0-inch touchscreen standard and a 10.5-inch screen available on higher trims. The system supported over-the-air updates and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Adventure trim tested included a 10.5-inch screen and an 11-speaker JBL Premium audio system. A 7-inch driver-information display was standard, with a 12.3-inch version available on select trims.

The 2022 Subaru Forester debuted the EyeSight 4.0 safety system, featuring a wider field of vision and improved accuracy. It included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centering assist. The Forester earned a 5-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA and was expected to retain its "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came with the TSS 2.5 suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, including lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring was available on the base LE model and standard on higher trims. The RAV4 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, reflecting its strong safety performance.