2023 Subaru Forester vs 2023 Toyota 4Runner

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner, particularly in its 40th Anniversary Special Edition (40 ASE), was a nod to the past with its retro body stripes and heritage grille design. This special edition, based on the SR5 Premium trim, added a four-wheel-drive system and unique bronze accents, including 17-inch wheels and interior stitching. The 4Runner's design evoked a strong Southern California vibe, reminiscent of the 1970s, with its bold stripes and truck-based SUV stance. Inside, the 4Runner maintained a purposeful and solid feel, with easy-to-use controls, even when wearing gloves, despite the abundance of plastic materials.

In contrast, the 2023 Subaru Forester maintained a more utilitarian appearance, focusing on function over form. Its design was consistent with previous Forester models, with a boxy shape and practical features like robust roof rails. The Touring trim, with its 18-inch alloy wheels and satin chrome exterior trim, was the most visually appealing. Inside, the Forester offered a mix of traditional Subaru design elements, such as analog gauges and a straightforward control layout. The interior was busy but practical, with a focus on ease of use and cleanability, making it a reliable choice for those who prioritize functionality.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 engine, producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. It offered a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and came with two available 4WD systems. Despite its off-road prowess, with features like Hill-Start Assist Control and optional off-roading technologies, the 4Runner's on-road performance was less impressive. It had a heavy and slow steering response, and its acceleration was leisurely. The 4Runner averaged 16.9 mpg, slightly below the EPA rating of 17 mpg in combined driving.

The 2023 Subaru Forester featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) powering all four wheels. The Forester's SI-Drive system offered a Sport mode for enhanced responsiveness, and most trims included an X-Mode off-road traction management system. The Forester excelled in driving dynamics, with light and accurate steering, effective brakes, and excellent suspension tuning. It returned 25.9 mpg during testing, falling short of the EPA rating of 29 mpg. The Forester's performance was adequate, though a turbocharged engine option would have been welcome.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner offered a unique feature with its power-down rear window, providing excellent ventilation. The interior was spacious, with comfortable seats and numerous storage locations, though some lacked rubber liners. The second-row seating area was roomy, with good legroom and USB charging ports. However, the optional third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space. Without the third row, the 4Runner provided 46.3 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 89.7 cubic feet with the second row folded.

The 2023 Subaru Forester prioritized functionality, with features like a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable seats, and heated front seats available from the Premium trim. The Forester's interior offered excellent visibility, thanks to its tall glass and thin windshield pillars. Entry and exit were effortless, and the cargo area was usefully shaped, with 26.9 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, expandable to 69.1 cubic feet. The Forester's interior storage was plentiful, though some compartments were smaller than ideal.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner featured a straightforward infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system was user-friendly, with large knobs and buttons, and offered optional upgrades like a JBL premium sound system. Despite its dated graphics, the infotainment system performed well, with reliable voice recognition.

The 2023 Subaru Forester's technology appeared outdated at first glance but offered practical features. The Base trim included a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims added satellite radio, HD Radio, and Starlink connected services. An 8-inch touchscreen was available, along with a Harman Kardon audio system. The Forester's user interface was simple and appealing, though the voice-recognition system was unreliable, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto preferable for navigation.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner came with Toyota Safety Sense, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard across all trims. However, the 4Runner's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Marginal rating from the IIHS for driver protection in the small overlap frontal-impact test.

The 2023 Subaru Forester featured the next-generation EyeSight system, with updated software and cameras for improved performance. It included Automatic Emergency Steering and Rear Automatic Braking on higher trims. The Forester earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, though it received an Acceptable rating in a new side-impact test and a Marginal rating in a small-overlap frontal-impact assessment. The NHTSA awarded the Forester five-star crash-test ratings, with a four-star rollover resistance rating.