2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid vs. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
When you stop by Premier Subaru Of Fremont to check out the all-new 2025 Forester Hybrid, you are sure to be impressed by this new version of the top-selling Subaru SUV. This is the first year the Forester has been offered in the hybrid format, and Subaru fans want to know how it compares to the very popular Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. The Premier Subaru Of Fremont staff is eager to point out all the exceptional features and categories that the Forester rules and then get you out in the new model for a test drive. We are confident that is all it will take to see you driving home to Hayward or Milpitas in a new hybrid Forester.
 2025 Forester Hybrid |  2025 RAV4 Hybrid |
MSRP | |
| $34,995 | $32,300 |
Warranty | |
| Basic Warranty: 3 yr./ 36,000 mi. Powertrain Warranty: 5 yr./ 60,000 mi. | Basic Warranty: 3 yr./ 36,000 mi. Powertrain: 5 yr./ 60,000 mi. |
City / Highway MPG | |
| 35/34 | 41/38 |
Engine | |
| 2.5-liter flat-four Boxer | 2.5-liter four-cylinder |
Horsepower | |
| 162 | 176 |
Front Headroom | |
| 41.2 | 39.5 in. |
Front Legroom | |
| 43.3 | 41.0 in. |
Comparing Handling and Control
Most buyers of the Forester and RAV$ are looking for that small SUV that can take them off-road and handle rugged terrain. It is critical to understand that Subaru has long been the name to trust for exceptional handling thanks to the symmetrical all-wheel drive system that delivers continuous power to all four wheels. The Hybrid Forester has the same system as the gas version and delivers the power and control that is far superior to the electronic all-wheel drive offered in the RAV4. The Toyota system is primarily front-wheel drive and only engages the rear wheels as needed for less constant control, stability, and traction in dicey road or weather conditions.
Critical Performance Comparisons
The power and estimated mileage of these two SUVs are relatively close and are not a deciding factor for most drivers. But what is sure to grab your attention are the next two critical capabilities. The ground clearance of the Forester Hybrid is several inches greater than that of the RAV4. The added ground clearance is not a factor on the highway. However, when you pull a trailer, camper, or boat to a remote area, you will want every inch of added clearance you can get. It is also vital to know that as you are towing your toys to the lake, river, or mountains, the Forester Hybrid has a max towing capacity of 3,500 pounds compared to the top end of the RAV4 Hybrid, which is limited to only 1,750 pounds.
What The Experts Say About the Interior
The size and overall shape of the two SUVs is nearly identical. However, experts noted a few key factors when evaluating the two side by side. The first item noted was that the interior of the Forester Hybrid is far more durable and well-suited for the more brutal environments found in the wilds. The StarTex upholstery used in the Forester is water-resistant and believed to be more durable than the SofTx synthetic leather in the RAV4. In addition, when loading gear and supplies into the Forester Hybrid, users were pleased with the larger rear gate opening and the lower load floor that made it more accessible than that of the RAV4 Hybrid.
If you are looking for a small SUV that will take you off-road and to remote locations with all your gear and items in tow, the 2025 Forester Hybrid is sure to be a better choice than the RAV4 Hybrid.
