The 2025 Subaru Forester It's an updated version, yet Subaru largely stuck to the recipe used in the previous generation. The vehicle remains a compact, box-shaped SUV offering excellent sightlines, versatile adaptability for adventures, and straightforward cabin styling. While numerous enhancements have been made for 2025 to maintain its competitiveness, how well does it stack up against top contenders in its segment?
Comparing it to the 2025 Honda CR-V It's an excellent starting point. This top-rated and widely favored subcompact SUV should definitely be considered by those seeking a smaller SUV model. Known for its versatility and minimal downsides, it can attract a wide variety of prospective customers. The specialists at Edmunds delve into specifics to determine which SUV offers greater value.
Space and visibility
It doesn’t get much better than the Forester’s visibility. Boxy proportions, big windows, thin roof pillars and a low hood provide an expansive view forward. Add to that the wide door openings and well-positioned seat heights, and the Forester is particularly well suited to older drivers.
For family use, the CR-V stands out as the superior option due to its greater interior space both for passengers and storage. The vehicle offers approximately two additional inches of rear-seat legroom along with a significantly bigger cargo hold, whose size varies based on the engine chosen. Additionally, visibility from inside the CR-V is clear, and entering or exiting the car is quite easy.
The interior storage space is more advantageous in the CR-V, particularly with respect to the wireless charging pad available in higher trim levels – unlike the Forester’s version which lacks side rails causing phones to slide around or even fall out. However, at least the Subaru offers generously sized cup and bottle holders designed to securely hold your beverages in position.
Advantage: CR-V
Interior technology
The Forester gained an 11.4-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen for 2025, but it’s been in other Subarus for years. It can be slow to respond and its graphics look dated. That said, its huge icons are easy to see and tap. Furthermore, there are a lot of physical buttons and regular old-school analog gauges, which should make the Forester seem more familiar for those transitioning from an older car.
The CR-V is hardly at the forefront of in-car tech either. The standard 7-inch screen is just OK, though the 9-inch upgrade screen found in the more expensive CR-V trim levels has more modern graphics. There are still physical controls, but in general, the CR-V looks and feels more up-to-date without making you feel like you’ve been beamed into a car from the future.
Advantage: CR-V
Driving and fuel economy
The Forester will offer a hybrid option starting in late 2025, which should enhance both fuel efficiency and performance. As of now, Edmunds hasn’t evaluated this model, so our focus remains solely on its standard engine—a four-cylinder producing 180 horsepower. This vehicle takes about 9.2 seconds to accelerate from zero to 60 mph, which isn't particularly impressive during urban commutes but might feel inadequate when merging onto highways or overtaking slower vehicles.
Although earlier parts of this comparison were more closely contested, the CR-V pulls ahead significantly here. It provides two engine options: a 190-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder or a 204-horsepower four-cylinder paired with a hybrid system. In terms of acceleration, it outperforms the Subaru by at least one second, whether measured at the racetrack or experienced during everyday driving. Additionally, the hybrid version boasts impressive strength and smoothness.
The fuel efficiency is quite similar between the Forester and the turbocharged CR-V, with both expected to deliver around 28-29 mpg combined according to the EPA estimates, varying slightly based on the specific trim levels. However, the hybrid version of the CR-V sees a significant improvement, achieving an estimated 37 mpg combined. Similarly, the forthcoming Forester Hybrid anticipates getting approximately 35 mpg combined.
Which one is preferable for driving? Irrespective of the engine type, the superior choice is the CR-V. It boasts a quieter cabin and offers crisper handling. Additionally, it provides a smoother ride while maintaining better maneuverability. Although the Forester serves its purpose adequately and will transport you effectively, the CR-V goes beyond with these features.
Advantage: CR-V
Edmunds says
This particular comparison was not even close. In our rankings, the CR-V takes second place among small SUVs, with the Forester placing at number twelve. These ratings highlight their respective strengths. Despite this ranking, the Forester remains an excellent option for individuals valuing outstanding visibility, straightforward interior controls, and off-road capabilities enhanced by features like ample ground clearance, elevated roof rails, and robust all-wheel drive. However, for the majority of potential buyers, the top pick would be the CR-V.
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The story was furnished to The Associated Press by the automotive website. Edmunds James Riswick is an contributor for Edmunds.