Choosing between the Toyota RAV4 and the Subaru Forester in 2025 is like choosing between two seasoned champions. Both are reliable, practical, and loaded with the latest tech. But which one truly fits your needs?
In this blog, we’ll break down key buying tips for the Toyota RAV4, while continuously comparing it with the Subaru Forester—our main benchmark keyword and one of the RAV4’s biggest competitors.
Toyota RAV4 Buying Tips: Think Before You Buy
Here are some practical tips to help you buy the right Toyota RAV4 in 2025—and decide whether it’s truly the better pick over the Subaru Forester.
1. Pick the Right Trim Level
The 2025 RAV4 comes in several trims: LE, XLE, XLE Premium, Adventure, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and Hybrid variants. If you’re into fuel efficiency, go hybrid. If off-road capability matters, look at TRD Off-Road.
Subaru Forester’s trims (like Sport and Wilderness) also offer outdoor-ready features, but Subaru comes with AWD as standard—Toyota RAV4 doesn’t.
2. Check for AWD (All-Wheel Drive)
Not all Toyota RAV4 trims include AWD by default. Make sure you’re getting AWD if you live in a snow-prone or wet climate.
Subaru Forester includes symmetrical AWD standard across all models, giving it a big advantage in all-weather confidence.
3. Compare Cabin Comfort and Cargo Space
The RAV4 is known for having a bold, upright cabin with 37.6 cu. ft. of cargo space (up to 69.8 cu. ft. with seats folded).
The Subaru Forester edges ahead slightly with 74.2 cu. ft. max cargo room and a more “airy” feel thanks to its taller cabin design.
4. Fuel Economy: Hybrid = Game Changer
The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid can achieve up to 41 MPG city—which crushes most compact SUVs in the segment.
The Subaru Forester (non-hybrid) gets around 29 MPG combined. However, a hybrid Forester may be coming later this year.
5. Don’t Overpay for Tech
Toyota’s standard infotainment system includes:
8″ or 10.5″ touchscreen
Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
Available JBL sound system
Subaru Forester offers similar tech—but it’s better integrated in higher trims like the Forester Touring.
Subaru Forester vs. Toyota RAV4: Head-to-Head (2025 Models)
Feature
Subaru Forester
Toyota RAV4
AWD Standard?
✅ Yes
❌ No (Available on most trims)
Hybrid Option
❌ Not yet (Expected)
✅ Yes
MPG (Base)
29 MPG combined
30 MPG combined
Max Cargo Space
74.2 cu. ft.
69.8 cu. ft.
Off-Road Model
Forester Wilderness
RAV4 TRD Off-Road
Price (Starting MSRP)
~$28,000
~$29,000
Safety Rating
IIHS Top Safety Pick+
IIHS Top Safety Pick
💡 While the RAV4 wins on hybrid performance, the Subaru Forester remains a value-packed option with better AWD and cargo room for less money.
Safety: Toyota RAV4 vs. Subaru Forester
Both SUVs offer top-tier safety, including:
Automatic Emergency Braking
Adaptive Cruise Control
Lane Keep Assist
Toyota offers Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, while Subaru counters with EyeSight® Driver Assist. The Forester gets slightly better marks in driver distraction mitigation with its DriverFocus® system.
Expert Buyer Advice
If you’re choosing the Toyota RAV4 over the Subaru Forester, consider this:
Go hybrid if MPG matters most to you.
Choose AWD if you face snow or poor road conditions.
Adventure trims are fun but expensive—don’t overpay for features you won’t use.
Compare with Subaru Forester Premium or Sport—you may get more for less.
Real Buyer Reviews
“I love the fuel economy of my RAV4 Hybrid, but my brother’s Forester feels more spacious and better in snow.” — Jessica P., Colorado
“I drove both back to back. RAV4 feels tougher, but the Forester felt more comfortable and practical for long drives.” — David M., Washington
Final Verdict: RAV4 or Forester?
Here’s the deal: If fuel efficiency and hybrid options are your top priority, the Toyota RAV4 is a smart buy. But if you want superior AWD, better interior space, and value for money, the Subaru Forester might actually be the better long-term choice.
