Compare performance (309 HP vs 136 HP), boot space and price (37,700 £ vs 34,700 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Toyota RAV4 or Subaru Forester?
All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.
In the growing market of compact SUVs, the battle between the Subaru Forester and the Toyota RAV4 has taken center stage. Both vehicles offer a blend of reliability, versatility, and performance, appealing to a wide range of customers. In this comparison, we will explore their technical aspects, innovations, and overall performance to help you decide which SUV reigns supreme.
The Subaru Forester is equipped with a 2.0L petrol MHEV engine, delivering a power output of 150 HP and generating a torque of 194 Nm. It features an automatic CVT transmission and an all-wheel-drive system, which enhances its capability on diverse terrains. With a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 11.8 seconds, the Forester balances decent power with efficiency, achieving a fuel consumption of 8.1 L/100km.
On the other hand, the Toyota RAV4 presents a more robust lineup of engines, including a full hybrid and a plugin hybrid variant. The conventional full hybrid engine produces between 218 to 306 HP, depending on the configuration. Notably, the RAV4 can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in as quick as 6 seconds, showcasing its performance edge over the Forester in this aspect. Furthermore, the RAV4 boasts an impressive fuel consumption range of just 1 L/100km in its most efficient plugin hybrid variant, making it an economical choice for eco-conscious drivers.
In terms of size, the Subaru Forester measures 4640 mm in length, 1815 mm in width, and stands at 1730 mm in height. It offers ample space, with a trunk capacity of 509 liters, enough for everyday needs and weekend adventures. With a curb weight ranging from 1658 kg to 1693 kg, it provides stability and safety without compromising on fuel efficiency.
The Toyota RAV4 slightly trails in length, measuring 4600 mm, but offers a broader width at 1855 mm and a slightly lower height of 1685 mm. Its trunk with a capacity of 580 liters proves advantageous for cargo space, especially for families. The RAV4's curb weight ranges from 1745 kg to 1910 kg, reflecting a different feel on the road but contributing to its performance dynamics.
Both SUVs come loaded with advanced technology, enhancing safety, comfort, and connectivity. The Subaru Forester integrates Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology, which provides features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking. This focus on safety has earned it high ratings in crash tests.
Meanwhile, the Toyota RAV4 offers cutting-edge technology in its Toyota Safety Sense package, which includes automated emergency braking, lane tracing assist, and dynamic radar cruise control. The RAV4 also excels with its multimedia system, featuring a larger touchscreen display and seamless smartphone integration, making connectivity a breeze.
When discussing eco-friendliness, the RAV4's hybrid options take the lead. The RAV4's hybrids produce CO2 emissions as low as 22 g/km, showcasing Toyota’s commitment to reducing the environmental impact of their vehicles. The Forester, with a CO2 emission rating of 185 g/km, still offers good efficiency but lags behind in comparison to the RAV4 hybrids.
Choosing between the Subaru Forester and the Toyota RAV4 ultimately depends on your priorities. The Forester stands out for its all-wheel-drive capabilities, excellent safety features, and spacious interior geared towards outdoor enthusiasts. However, the Toyota RAV4 seems to cater more to those who value hybrid efficiency, performance, and advanced technology.
Regardless of which vehicle you choose, both SUVs offer a dependable and enjoyable driving experience, backed by two of the best brands in the automotive market.
Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.
Subaru Forester is marginally cheaper – starting at 34,700 £ , while the Toyota RAV4 costs 37,700 £ . That’s a price difference of around 3,000 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Toyota RAV4 uses 1.3 L/100km and is considerably more efficient than the Subaru Forester with 8.1 L/100km. The difference is about 6.8 L/100km.
Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.
When it comes to engine power, the Toyota RAV4 offers substantially more power – delivering 309 HP compared to 136 HP. That’s roughly 173 HP more horsepower.
When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Toyota RAV4 is substantially quicker – completing the sprint in 5.8 s, while the Subaru Forester takes 12.2 s. That’s about 6.4 s quicker.
Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.
Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.
In terms of curb weight, Toyota RAV4 is barely lighter – 1,655 kg compared to 1,693 kg. The difference is around 38 kg.
Looking at boot space, the Toyota RAV4 offers very slightly more boot space – 514 L compared to 508 L. That’s a difference of about 6 L.
When it comes to payload, the Toyota RAV4 carries slightly more – 610 kg compared to 492 kg. That’s a difference of about 118 kg.
The Toyota RAV4 is far ahead overall in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.
The Toyota RAV4 is a well-rounded compact SUV that pairs everyday practicality with a comfortable, composed ride and generous cargo space, making it a sensible choice for families and active lifestyles. Its strong reputation for reliability, efficient drivetrains, and straightforward technology gives it wide appeal whether you value economy, comfort, or capability.
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The Subaru Forester is a practical all-rounder that quietly does everything right, with roomy comfort, excellent visibility and a real fondness for weekend adventures off the beaten path. It won't set your pulse racing like a sports car, but for buyers who prize reliability, safety and sensible charm, it's a brilliantly steady companion with a cheeky streak.
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Costs and Consumption |
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Price
37,700 - 54,200 £
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Price
34,700 - 42,200 £
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Consumption L/100km
1.3 - 5.3 L/100km
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Consumption L/100km
8.1 L/100km
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Electric Range
133 - 137 km
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Electric Range
-
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Battery Capacity
-
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Battery Capacity
-
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co2
30 - 121 g/km
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co2
183 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
-
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Fuel tank capacity
-
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Dimensions and Body |
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|---|---|
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Body Type
SUV
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Body Type
SUV
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Seats
5
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Seats
5
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Doors
-
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Doors
-
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Curb weight
1,655 - 1,960 kg
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Curb weight
1,693 - 1,739 kg
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Trunk capacity
446 - 514 L
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Trunk capacity
508 L
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Length
-
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Length
-
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Width
1,880 mm
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Width
1,830 mm
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Height
-
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Height
-
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Max trunk capacity
-
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Max trunk capacity
-
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Payload
515 - 610 kg
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Payload
446 - 492 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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Engine Type
Full Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid
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Engine Type
Petrol MHEV
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission Detail
CVT
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Transmission Detail
CVT
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
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Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
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Power HP
185 - 309 HP
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Power HP
136 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.8 - 8 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
12.2 s
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Max Speed
-
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Max Speed
-
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Torque
-
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Torque
182 Nm
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Number of Cylinders
4
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Number of Cylinders
4
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Power kW
136 - 227 kW
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Power kW
100 kW
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Engine capacity
2,487 cm3
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Engine capacity
1,995 cm3
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General |
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Model Year
2026
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Model Year
2025
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CO2 Efficiency Class
C, D, B
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CO2 Efficiency Class
G
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Brand
Toyota
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Brand
Subaru
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Deutschland
France
Nederland
Great Britain
Sverige
Danmark
Suomi
Italia
Polska
Česko
España