AWD Showdown: Subaru Forester vs. Honda CR-V vs. Toyota RAV4 | Consumer Reports

[@umaxen0048]

The reason I purchased my Subaru is because I was involved in a flash flood in Miami. At the time I was driving a Lexus ES and was able to quickly make my way to the median which separated a 6 lane road. The water just barely stayed out of my interior. As I was sitting there, I saw a Forester make it's way from the street, over the curb, onto the sidewalk, up and over a 4 foot high, 30-ish degree grass embankment, up and into a Publix parking lot with EASE. A Suburban followed but was unable to get over the wet, grass embankment. I counted at least 20 cars floating by, literally like boats, crashing into one another at a major intersection.

[@DEZONAENZONA]

Igual. Ompre un forester por la misma razón, estar en florida y las inundaciones

[@oliververnon8120]

Can’t argue with the hood scoop in a flood

[@bulldog71ss33]

​@@oliververnon8120the engine does not receive fresh air from the hood scoop. Older models equipped with hood scoops were XT models which had a turbocharger. The hood scoop Forced cool air over the turbocharger to cool the inlet air going into the motor. Fresh air is pulled into the motor via a small scoop near the headlight. Fairly high up, but not as high as the hood scoop itself.

[@mrman26]

I just drove my Forester in heavy snow today...I almost felt invincible!

[@outdoorsurvivalshop8986]

I LOVE my subaru outbacks! Dependable, reliable, and unstoppable in winter!!! My 2003 outback has 362k miles with the original engine and transmission! I will also add that they tow very well even in winter snowy conditions. I have blizzak snow tires on my outback, and that combined with the awd system makes driving in winter conditions a breeze!!

[@gunrbow5044]

How are maintenance costs on the Subaru

[@oliververnon8120]

I heard once that Subaru drivers are the problem, not the cars. Subaru engines need extra oil pan baffling and more oil related things if you’re planning on doing intense or even lots of spirited driving. I had one for my first car that I didn’t realize the value of an oil change and I took my $20 to the gas station instead of the hardware store

[@lesaber251]

My 2015 Forester was awesome in last Winter's snow here in NJ. Even with the stock all season tires. We had a lot of snow but it went thru everything like the snow wasn't even there. I'll never buy anything other than a Subaru from now on. Got my wife the same car too.

[@edu.g6082]

Ken Saber Very true Subaru doesn't disappoint

[@edu.g6082]

Ken Saber Would love to see some German cars compete in snow with Subaru especially Benz

[@JCGray52]

We've had both the Honda CRV and Subarus. Subaru most definitely out performs Honda's 4 wheel drive system in the snow. We just purchased our 5th Subaru for our family which is the 2021 Forester. IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus.

[@marinasummer6459]

Do you still like it? We are thinking of getting a new Forester....

[@uthmankhawn3979]

Loved reading the proud Subie owners’ comments! 👍🏼

[@zefolantar]

Bought a 2015 Forester XT Limited in August after owning 3 Honda CRV’s in the last 15 years. This is my 1st Subaru, and so far I truly love it! Purchased an extra set of alloy rims with new winter tires, so looking forward to putting it through its paces in our harsh Canadian winter here in Winnipeg MB. 😁

[@lukas______]

I hear the turbo Foresters have more issues than the NA 2.5. What do you think?

[@redmusichouse]

That's why Canadians love their Subarus!

[@1232bluejays]

Honda civic are the best in snow just ask any Canadian

[@vertik7]

+Casanova Frankenstein don't expect much. With low ground clearance it can get stuck almost as easily as fwd midsize sedan.

[@tungol00]

+vertik7 Depending on how you drive lol

[@vertik7]

Impreza has 5 inches of ground clearance, with all season tires, it has no way of driving in the unplowed alley (about 12 inches of snow). Alleys don't get plowed, only after couple days after snowstorm. And if your garage is looking in the alley good luck. Ground clearance is very important in the snow, as well as awd/4wd. I guess winter tires help too.

[@ElectoneGuy]

+dave houston I had a 2010 Civic sedan with snow tires and it was crap in the snow.

[@_patontheback_]

Just purchased Forester 2017. Glad I made the right choice!

[@marioromero2431]

I just bought one this week! How do you like yours?

[@eggchucker666]

I just got a 2014 forester as my first car. Couldn't be happier!

[@robertbordenave1294]

I have owed 5 Subarus - all were great in the snow, wet grass and mud. I can go places on my 98 acre farm in the Suby where my Ford F250 4w drive won't go!

[@Tardisius]

I've had a Subaru in northern Indiana for 16 years, I'm satisfied =)

[@luxferis3592]

@alelx jines- Well said.

[@alfu8868]

I love my XV Crosstrek. Ahhh...feels nice to get that off my chest.

[@dfw_motorrad1329]

It's what makes a Subaru... A Subaru. No need to hold it in. I love my Outback.

[@jlemaster1157]

+RyanRants Amen!

[@MyRandomCommentsXD]

+Al Fu the XV is the wimp version of the forester. it's got the same engine as the impreza 2.0, but a lot more weight. which helps in the snow since weight provides traction.

[@Eternal_Lens_Media]

Although it is true that it has the body of the Impreza they also add a rear differential to it so yes it is underpowered having owned one myself but it can go through a lot I've driven through snow up very steep hills in over 2 feet of snow yes I have snow tires

[@williamw3501]

Agree. Forrester is nice, definitely has more under the hood, but I just like the crosstrek more.

[@GreyhatInfiltrator]

This is the very reason, why I like Subaru Cars so much. They are very well designed, from a safety point of view, but also from a mechanical point of view.

[@KClife9TV]

Cvt are junk

[@oliververnon8120]

Agreed. Great driving dynamics and the first car crash I was in we rolled 3 times down a cliff and ended up upright on the road 30 feet below. The cab was kind of dented but clearly designed to not crush passengers which I appreciate. The kid in the passenger seat had the stereo wrapped around his leg and only the driver was wearing a seatbelt but everyone was okay.

[@mogulsman]

Subaru ftw... it's why they are the only cars I will buy. I have owned four to date. Safe, reliable, and unmatched in all weather conditions. Love, it's what makes a Subaru, a Subaru!

[@colechapman6976]

My 2012 Outback got me through the worst of the snowstorms in the Northeast. I go Upstate when I have to visit my parents and they always get tons of snow and the hills and altitude can get steep. I never felt unsafe driving even with just all-season tires during the winter. If you know what your doing, and drive cautiously, Subarus AWD system won't make you go into a ditch

[@dpjmc]

Absolutely LOVE my Forester. Last winter was horrific here in NY. On a good day, takes me 1/2 hr to get home from work. Last yr took over 1 1/2 hrs two different day because of such heavy wet snow that turned to ice. Drivers of tractor trailers were abandoning their trucks in the middle of the road & walking away, that shows how bad it was. But, I made it safely just took a long time. Anyway, right now my Forester is getting snow tires put on, don't want to go through that horrific driving again.

[@thatsmybit]

Love, thats what makes a Subaru a Subaru.

[@cccpsra]

I have a 2011 Subaru Forester X Limited. I am renaming it as the snowpiercer. I

[@yokoreia]

I have audi and Subaru, I prefer driving Subaru and audi is lot of work to drive in the snow

[@asdjfnljn3]

+New Yoko The Quattro system is pretty good, but Audis cost more.

[@308_Negra_Arroyo_Lane]

+asdjfnljn3 Quattro means both Haldex and Torsen. Torsen is good, Haldex sucks.

[@intrepidmilotic5999]

Torsen is great and so is Haldex. Haldex works amazingly well on ice,and snow but not so well offroad.

[@intrepidmilotic5999]

4Motion is very good, i used my Tiguan this year on ice and snow and it outperformed many other cars.

[@Jason99942]

Good catch. I agree, let's see a uniform test. Also - I would never drive in the winter without dedicated winter tires. They make a huge difference.

[@intox69]

I drive my Subie through blizzards and whatever else here in Canada, the last storm I drove through I was literally plowing snow with the front end on the highway as I made my way home. it has never let me down I have 100% confidence in it.

[@Doc1855]

We have a 19 Outback and a 19 Forester. They’re awesome vehicles in all driving conditions, especially in the winter months. We get 5-6 feet of snow every winter. Furthermore Subaru is the Volvo of Japan as far as Safety !

[@ramalingam108]

In Canada we put winter tire during winter !!!

[@Xmvw2X]

The best AWD systems will have 3 functional layers. Layer 1 - An awd system that mechanically linked. All time is best for response, but clutch engaging can work perfectly well if it functions fast enough. All time is best as it's proactive vs reactive. Layer 2 - Mechanical differentials. You want to avoid open diffs and even viscous diffs are so-so at best. It's preferred to have some form of instant mechanical system like a helical or clutch type system. This is mainly a speed and stability issue. Viscous diffs take time and open diff systems rely on the ABS system to read and react. It's noticeably sluggish in comparison to actually having mechanical diffs in place. Layer 3 - Computer controlled balancing/torque vectoring. This is your traction control, stability control, and torque vectoring system. Some systems are clutch based but most are ABS based and work very well to compliment a good AWD system and pick up the slack for less ideal systems. Also note that there can be a HUGE variation in how a car behaves simply by retuning the software. For example, the CRV can be tuned to work much better than it does and in some past testing Honda tweaked the system to work great off road and tweaked it back to what they believe is correct for normal consumers. The difference, according to the reviewer is pretty night and day. These electronic systems have a lot of control over how a car drives and can have much greater influence than you are likely willing to believe. Still, this electronic layer is sluggish and relies on the readings of wheel speed and other sensors to change settings. Again, it's reactive, so while Layer 3 can do a lot, Layer 2 is the only good way to get instant response. Your best cars have all three layers combined and with Layer 3 tuned to allow the driver to go a bit overboard and make mistakes. Many auto manufacturers do so much in Layer 3 to keep the driver from failing that it just ends up incredibly intrusive. And at the end of the day the real device that makes any of this even work are tires. The best awd system with bad tires will perform incredibly poorly and can become dangerously bad. Run the best tires you can buy for the conditions you run. This is first and foremost. After that, the awd package will make good use of that grip.

[@AJ-qn6gd]

My wife has a 2015 Forester Diesel with manual gearbox here in the U.K. we don’t always get a lot of snow but when we do it feels very safe and predictable, I like the Subaru four wheel drive system as it requires no driver input it just does it’s thing and does it well.

[@jasondanner6630]

Our '07 Tribeca has seen 100's of days of snow covered roads, been up very steep unplowed driveways with 18-24" if unplowed snow & has never once been stuck. All on everyday all season rubber. CANNOT RECOMMEND STRONGLY ENOUGH! Symmetrical AWD is the way to go!

[@moaski]

Subarus are the best in the snow!

[@LJ-em7wj]

Test drove a 2015 Subaru Outback and there isn't any feedback from the plastic-ky feel CVT transmission. Test drove a 2015 Audi Allroad and that was bloody awesome! Ended up buying it, and 2 winters later it's still going and is a lot of fun to drive in the snow!

[@stevethea5250]

The RAV4 is the most "truck like" small suv, it still drives alittle like a prado or landcruiser, it's still a Toyota suv so it behaves a lot like it's bigger brothers. This is why I like it so much myself, but it's gets hammered in reviews for it because car reviewers seem to think small suv's should be more car like and sporty.

[@MemphisMojo15s]

@@stevethea5250 yep. I like both of mine. Never had trouble in the snow, however I find it funny the CR-V actually even pulled out as the AWD in that car has a huge delay. I've seen a few videos that showed how slow the system is to activate

[@oslotismcboom6733]

4x4 is superior to awd

[@AZHOLEN1]

Subaru, no gimmicky slip and grip! full time awd ftw!

[@cherobinson6371]

And by far safest-Toys just got sued 4 Rusty frames and faile the 15 and 16 overlap crash tests-Subaru is 3rd safest car period -Only thing ahead? RangeRover And 500 SL Merc.-Both 150 grand cars-Subaru is also Union built not Mexico Toy or Taiwan Honda...

[@13601chas]

I'm a first time Subaru owner, who purchased a new 2014 Outback last year. Having hearing all the great things about Subaru's handling and dependability, I always wanted to check them out, and I wanted to get away from the big price tags and poor gas mileage of four-wheel drive trucks and SUV's. After my first winter with it, in the winter badlands of Northern New York, I was sold. I've owned and driven many different types of vehicles in my 30 plus years of driving, and this is hands down the best vehicle I've ever driven in winter weather condition. Before the winter weather hit, I was thinking about purchasing winter tires for it, but figured I'd wait and see how the stock all-seasons performed. Well, after driving it in winter road conditions, I didn't see the need for winter tires because the all-seasons performed great... But I can only imagine the performance when winter tires are added. Everything I've always heard about Subaru's is true... They're an awesome vehicle! I can definitely see myself as a lifetime Subie:)

[@oliververnon8120]

Just gathering info does this Subaru still run

[@maryamato9089]

Had to "put my 1993 Legacy down in April" and hunted all around MA for a 2007 Forester and found one because they are great in winter ... Subarus are great in NE winters, city or open road! ...

[@chrisrox163]

im surprised they didn't mention the biggest difference between the CRv/Rav4 vs Forester: full time vs part time awd systems. Honda/Toyota awd systems are part time; they only engage during acceleration and when they sense loss of traction. these systems are quite simple and are often too slow to react under cornering scenarios. in reality, these systems pretty much behave like their 2wd counterparts under cornering Subaru awd system is full time; all the wheels are driven at all times with torque split between the wheels as traction is required. the benefit is the awd system is preventing slip on corners VS waiting for the slip to happen and trust the car regains traction once the rear wheels are driven. this is by no means an "attack" on Honda/Toyota (i personally own honda's w/ awd), i just want to make sure that as consumers we're educated about these things. its not that Honda/Toyota's systems are mediocre, they are just fundamentally different in design and purpose compared to Subaru

[@kronomikon5355]

How about turning the vsa off on the crv?

[@scootsmcdoots80]

I thought the forester had an open diff and went front wheel drive when awd not needed?

[@IsaacRayNJ]

Nope, the Subaru’s default state is a 60:40 torque split between front and rear

[@MultiChimRichalds]

@@IsaacRayNJ 50/50 split with manual transmissions through a viscous coupling

[@wildbill23c]

Most AWD systems are reactive rather than pro-active. I've never driven a newer Subaru so I cannot say how their AWD systems are, but I know the old 4WD Subaru's from the 80's with actual 4WD and a manual transfer case with low range would go anywhere. I got a chance to drive a 2018 Rav4 and got extremely lucky to have it long enough to test drive it in 10" of snow...it did pretty well and the power transfer was undetectable and immediate, it would stay planted and just take off from a dead stop...granted it was a loaner vehicle from the dealer and they obviously were smarter than 99% of these car testing companies and installed a set of winter rated tires on it, they didn't have studs but were not the factory all seasons just the Blizzak tires that are common to see running around here in Idaho and they did amazing. One thing to note that Toyota's Rav4 will transfer some power to the rear wheels automatically every time you take off from a stop, but it doesn't have the ability to transfer 100% of the power to the rear wheels, maximum you can get is 50% and that's in the 4WD lock mode and that only works up to 25mph, but at the same time once you are able to get moving it isn't such a problem, its stopping that is your biggest problem. One thing that would be nice is if they could change the settings for the 4WD lock mode and allow it to be engaged regardless of speed, it would help enormously and would give it a much better chance at competing with a Subaru.

[@45eno]

William Sevier well said. I have owned a couple Subaru’s one of them I had blizzacks ws70 for the winter and yeah it did great. I sold it and bought a fwd Toyota Sienna. Used the same blizzacks on it and had no issues driving still to the mountains. I now have both a rav4 awd v6 and sienna v6 with the latest blizzacks and they do great. For those constantly driving in snow then Subaru with good snow tires would be at the top of my list. For me though a good FWD or part time AWD with proper winter tires is a better choice. I was on my 3rd head gasket between the two Subaru’s so I decided to go Toyota.

[@sergevivier2023]

I sold my 2009 Forester AT 4 speed and bought a 2012 Tiguan 4 motion. The Tiguan is just as good in snow but handles much better. We also had a lot of reliability issues with the Forester after the 3 year warranty expired. Brakes, suspension, engine light and paint.

[@6824096]

The Toyota can not corner on dry pavement, so no way it can in snow.

[@MemphisMojo15s]

you're wrong. I own two. learn how to drive. TFL Car tested the CR-V against the RAV4 and they even said the RAV4 has a better AWD system and if equipped with more aggressive tires like the CR-V had, it would go even that much better..the only thing you wanted to do was bash the RAV4. TFL Car actually take them off roading and show is in car shots while they're driving, and explain what's going on at that time, not what CR is doing in this video...clips of them driving while not showing the start to finish.

[@TeaTimeCorner]

+2010V6RAV4 Either way, I don't see a point to get them over a Subaru.

[@wayward03]

+2010V6RAV4 it's a known fact that the Toyota and Honda versions are a very limited awd setup vs Subaru or audi. TFLcars is a joke. To do a proper test they should have switched the cars to the same all seasons or snow the tires. A brief test would be all that's needed to determine if the stock tires would work then go about testing the cars not which company picked more snow oriented tires to equip the cars

[@308_Negra_Arroyo_Lane]

+2010V6RAV4 LoL! You're comparing the fly by night jokers at TFL with Consumer Reports? Those idiots don't know shit about cars or driving.

[@medicalrecordsinc]

+2010V6RAV4 Please do explain how the toyota awd is better than subarus? You realize they both lack front and rear differentials and that leaves you with using the brakes to limit wheelspin on one side of the axle to transfer that power to the other side with grip. In fact, toyota setup is MUCH worse then subaru as seen in the video where a venza cant send enough power to the rear wheels to climb a set of rollers, even vw was able to do it but toyotas system did not have enough power to send to the rear. I dont think anyone is bashing the rav4, both cars have there strengths, but no objective person will say that toyotas awd is better than subaru. Now when it comes to real 4wd with a transfer case, locking differentials like on a fj or 4runner, Toyota is awesome and is top with g wagens, defenders and jeep wranglers.

[@martiuscaius6816]

If you live where there is a "real" winter, pony up, get the right tires. I had a set of Bridgestone Blizzaks on a VW GTI back in the day and I was damned near unstoppable. It could only feel even more bad ass paired up with a system like Subaru's AWD.

[@pamelapospisil9330]

I love Blizzaks. I first used them on a Ford Escort, and they made so much difference. I live on top of a hill in upstate New York, and my neighbor got tired of pulling me out of the ditch, told me to get the best snow tires I could find, and I've had Blizzaks ever since, and have not had any trouble on snow or ice, even with the Escort. I now have them on my 4WD Hyundai Tucson, and plan to get a Forester soon, and will get Blizzaks again.

[@joshmccoy1522]

Put them on a Subaru and it will almost climb a snow-covered tree.

[@greenmarine5]

very true I run Laufenn I Ice snow tires on my Rav4 testing shows they actually perform as well as the Blizzaks but yeah talk about confidence in the snow, slush and on Ice. I wouldn't buy anything but Blizzaks, Hancook or Laufenn for snow tires

[@NotWBT]

I live in Canada and drive a 1999 Wrx hatch back. Top notch winter tires and I can keep up and even do better than most lifted trucks. to bad I get about the same gas mileage as a lifted truck, haha.

[@tungol00]

I have to agree with this test I have the CR V and I don't think they have the most confident inspiring AWD system.

[@sonictech1000]

Where the good awd systems really shine is in mixed conditions at higher speed. Try passing someone at 50mph on the freeway when only half of the left lane has been plowed. I grew up driving 2wd vehicles in the snow and it's true that you can do almost anything with practice and good tires but my wife's Subie makes it so easy it almost feels like cheating.

[@snowrocket]

Tires DO make a difference, but they WERE comparing stock, as-purchased SUVs. From the outset (1997?), the CRV has NEVER had a really great AWD system. It requires noticeable front wheel spin before delivering power to the rear wheels. Then, it can't seem to deliver a lot of power to the rear wheels anyway. The CRV's AWD seems to have been set up mostly to be lightweight with less drag for better fuel economy, and NOT for giving you the greatest go-traction possible. It's like a "FWD assist", not a true AWD/4WD. Volvo's AWD (at least the early ones) acted much the same way. For the price that you pay, it's always been Subaru, the occasional Mitsubishi, and Audi that make the best AWD systems.

[@TheXxkornmunkyx666]

I just got an 09 outback a couple months ago. Can't wait to get it in the snow!

[@TheEseseseses]

Subaru,only subaru .. It is the best suv for russian winter !

[@schuylerpierce9950]

I love my Subaru ! just bought a Forester premium. my last car was a Subaru Outback I got 334,000 miles out of it then sold it still running great! Insainly great in snow with winter studded tires. "go anywhere"

[@sothickitssickk]

forester or outback? why? isnt outback more smooth on road, and better interior? bigger cargo

[@teppoerickson7062]

Extremely happy with our turbo Forester. Makes the CVT irrelevant as there's plenty of horsepower to not have that annoying drone of weaker engines. Traction and handling are excellent. We will get better tires when the originals have to be replaced that are more capable both on rough roads and in snow/ice. Good ground clearance also helps with keeping control in deeper snow.

[@lukas______]

I hear the turbo Foresters have more issues than the NA 2.5. What do you think?

[@jlemaster1157]

Go Subie! No surprise to those of us who are repeat customers---reminds me of the winter I took my 99 OB into 18 in of snow to go snowshoeing near the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers a few years ago. No problem for the Sub! It died a few years ago and I tried out a Toyota Highlander--no comparison! I just came back and bought a 16 OB---wow!

[@benoitlevesque9609]

Canadian here, I know my snow, And I drive a subaru!

[@oz7564]

When you tested stopping distance you tested tire traction - not AWD. Based on this test results the CRV had the worst tires. That means CRV was at disadvantage. While it's fun to watch the test was done unprofessionally. You should use the same tires for all cars to see which AWD system performs better.

[@ethanroberts6764]

Subaru still wins

[@aguiremedia]

@@ethanroberts6764 at what? Price? Reliably?

[@calebjc]

Thanks. I have a 2009 Forester in Vermont, and I concur. I'd like to see a test all running the same snow tires.

[@michaelwalsh2190]

just bought a new 2017 forester dec 23 .. love it so far looking forward to a snow storm ..

[@cherobinson6371]

have aCrostrek 3 winters now in Canadian Mountains-Awesome!!! stock tires..G95'S are good 2 go. 3 feet snow? no issues-Ice? git it... pus Suabrus are full time not when you need it AWD...Safest of the 3 too.

[@sothickitssickk]

for both of you guys... forester or outback? people have been telling me that outback is larger cargo space, and it drives much smoother. not to mention the nicer interior.

[@thelegendbullet937]

I know right? :D I have a second set of wheels wrapped with Blizzaks for my 15' Forester XT... I'm just about Praying for it to snow!

[@thelegendbullet937]

I personally went with the Forester because the XT is significantly faster than the 3.6R Outback, but if speed isn't your thing then I do believe the outback's cargo may be slightly more useful. It's longer and not so box like. The forester has space, but you have to be willing to stack things because it's space is from its height.

[@vectraB97]

All season tires are illegal in Norway. Because they're rubbish in all conditions. Your only allowed to use them on trailers.

[@jackgallino1136]

I have a Subaru Outback, one of the best cars I ever owned. Fantastic in the snow not afraid to go anywhere.

[@GiordanDiodato]

I have an 03 Baja and it's a beast in snow.

[@stoneroses13]

The only thing that I don't like about our 2015 Subaru Forester 2.0XT was that its brake got stuck last winter here in Saskatchewan Canada when the temperature was extremely low. My wife told me that the brake was so hard to push and we almost hit the truck before us. The dealer told us that there's a leak in the brake lining that caused the problem. That time our Subie already has 95,000 kms. But it's performance in snow and mud is awesome. We live in a rural area where most of the roads are unpaved.

[@mattross6902]

My CRV, after 2 Foresters and an Outback is by far the better car in the snow and ice. I've ran both snow tires and all seasons in our Pittsburgh winters for 30 years. The CRV in economy mode will climb anything without any wheel spin. I have been impressed. Great gas compared to the Subu also. But my last 2 subu's had 230k and 242k, the first one had the rare blown engine at 60k, which factory replaced, I got rid of it! I hope the Honda engines last as long!

[@tigergreg8]

I just got my Mom's 2011 CRV, only 63,000 miles, and hope to enjoy it this winter. I gave my brother my 4Runner because it was just too much vehicle to cope with. I also live in Pittsburgh. Hope your CRV worked out well for you.

[@donaldfschiff1229]

@@tigergreg8 I grew up in Pittsburgh, and I learned to drive there. Hondas typically last longer than Subarus, and they break less often.

[@2visiondigital]

CRV better than an Outback and Forester in snow and ice. I gotta think that is an outlier opinion. Having driven both I find that hard to accept, but hey.

[@z1az285]

I own a 2018 Subaru limited legacy and I admit it was a somewhat rushed buy because we required a car right away, and despite some concerns about reliability purchased one with a 10 year , 100k mile gold plus extended warranty for peace of mind. Zero regrets especially in winter weather (snow, sleet) and also overall driving. I have not experienced a better AWD system in my opinion.

[@garrisonklinge7093]

What about that head gasket

[@Crazycapo88]

own a 12 outback 3.6r and wife owns a 09 forester 2.5 no issues with a winter here in maine even in 15 ft, chugged right through

[@fabulousprofound]

i come from a subie family, but i wonder how would a mitsubishi outlander compare in this group? i've been in the older last gen model and it worked well in the snow conditions out here in the northwest...

[@mountainhobo]

It would be really fun now if you could compare it to 1/2 ton 4x4 crew cab pickup trucks. And yes, people do cross shop those. If you have any doubts, look at sales numbers.

[@Tenacitae]

I live in Vermont and we see a lot of snow here and all we see here are Subarus. They don’t call Vermont the capital of Subarus for nothing.

[@ledeves5160]

Audi Torsen Quattro is amazing on-road, and I'm an Audi fan, but I have to agree that Subaru's symmetrical AWD feels and is better in snow and ice.

[@j0hnfukuzawa954]

LEDeve S sorry

[@DilanGilluly]

The Subarus handle better in rough weather, but the CR-V and RAV4 have different strengths. The CR-V has more rear leg room and a taller compartment, and the RAV4 mainly shines in reliability, and is a bit more reliable than the forester. But I like my 2015 Forester as I do quite a bit of driving in the snow.

[@f5fstop]

Don't own any of the three, old fashioned and prefer part time 4x4 systems on my truck. However, No surprise that Subaru would win the overall. Have friends out here in the mountains that love them and I am impressed. However, most took the factory tires and either use ONLY in warm weather, sold them or got rid of them and replaced with a good AT or an All-Weather tire (not all-season there is a difference) such as a Goodyear Weatherready. Only problem I would have with a Subaru is the CV trans. Still like my gears. But Subaru does a good job in giving the feeling of a shifting trans

[@mikeb5926]

I wish you would do an updated version of this comparison. I really want to know what vehicles are the very best in deep snow.

[@robertpiekosz7470]

Always Subaru. And if you actually get winter tires; you will Never get stuck. Even without using X-Mode 😊

[@keponen331]

any full time 4wd

[@plmn93]

Subaru or any torque vectoring system as you'll find in some Hondas and GMs. But you won't find it in the CRV.

[@LVang152]

I have Honda Pilot and in the snow when slip the gas paddle been cut off to power. I hate it because I need the power to correct the vehicle.

[@wildbill23c]

You can thank the safety nazis for that crap. Most of the time those safety features do nothing but help you get stuck because it cuts power so much you can't get the vehicle out of its own way. Luckily for Toyota you can turn that shit off.

[@sreilly]

You can turn that stuff off on Hondas too.

[@echoeric1]

If you are reading these comments to learn, as I do, from others, many comments are referring to tires. All I can add is this: Trust that good tires in the snow make a huge difference for traction (acceleration, breaking and cornering). Good, and newer tires, are essential for safe driving in the snow!

[@FirePoo]

I have owned many vehicles, but currently own two Subarus... no surprises whatsoever at their findings!

[@lynnnoel1117]

The majority of our Audubon Society members drive Subarus based on AWD efficiency in the tough places we go to find birds and the fact that they are intelligent enough to check CR, letting them do the expensive testing and reading their results. That was good enough for us. We bought our Subaru 8 weeks ago and love everything except the three owners' manuals necessary to cover all the things we need to know to drive a car with a control panel similar to that of a 747.

[@domzbu]

what is with the off centre camera angle on showing him talking away from camera? just distracting

[@hugeandy71]

why on earth one whould use all season tires in those conditions? i put winter tires on my rwd sedan, why whould i buy an awd suv and leave it on all season? i'd rather have an fwd suv on winters

[@emiliorescigno]

I'm really curious to see how these same vehicles fare once they have real snow tires equipped. OEM all-seasons are pretty much only useful for a good old fashioned tire fire.

[@thelegendbullet937]

I love my tuned Forester XT. It's deceivingly fast and extremely capable all the while being very functional :)

[@Justanopionion3519]

I bought a new 2016 Forester and have never taken it in the snow yet. Now I'm excited to do so. I always knew Subaru had the best AWD

[@danielmelendez9943]

I had a 2007 CRV LX.Standard all season tires. Great on the rain, not so great on the snow. Now I have an MDX with S-HAWD. Huge difference this is not a fair comparison by any means but the CRV most likely would have to be equipped with snow tires and possibly light chains to move and be agile on the snow. Something I dont have to worry about on my MDX

[@mindspinn311]

The biggest difference is the style of AWD system. Front drive based Haldex-style systems, or rear drive layouts with a transfer case move torque in a totally different way than a symmetrical AWD.

[@Charlesandhammy]

Hey guys i need some advice , im confuse which i gonna buy CRV or Forester i live in canada a newbie driver. thnks

[@MsKewi-NYC]

Can you guys do an updated version of this video with the 2019 models?

[@billonthehill9984]

The factory all season tires [ Bridgestones ] on my 2017 Subaru Outback used here in north central VT. generally work depending on the type of snow , i.e., dry, cold & not to deep, conversely when the snow is wet along with ice & slush, these tires are EXTREMELY dangerous even when driven on a plowed road. The road test CR is using in this video is on a flat track with each vehicle's factory equipped all season tires. I live on a class 4 road, uphill all the way in, [ 1/2 mi. ] The driveway is a steep 350 feet in length up to the garage which sits at 1840 [ above sea level ]. A little more extreme even by typical VT. standards but what it clearly shows is the need for REAL snow tires, not just where I live but out on the maintained roads & highways as well... IMHO, Subaru of N. A. should not be offering any of their vehicle lineups in this part of the country with these dreadfully inadequate factory installed M&S All Season Tires... At the very least, the car dealership, [ Brattleboro Subaru ] should have offered an alternative [ safer tire ] for the upcoming winter, THEY DID NOT... :>( Thank you, Bill Farr... :-)

[@martinr8278]

Love my subaru. Family member just purchased a crosstrek. I almost like that more then my 16 forester!! So why is the Honda CRV outselling or most popular suv? I owned a CRV in 2010, it was nice but I enjoy my Subaru much better and feel much safer. Toyota’s can be a bit overrated but I’m sure they do great on dry pavement. This was quite the Toyota eye opener ⚠️

[@kaiviti2013]

Not Surprised with the results at all ! I am going for a Forester 2016 in the next few weeks. CRV and RAV4 may look "stylish" (due to the swooping rear which limits visibility) but having driven all 3, Forester has the BEST visibility and you just feel so confident and have that sense of freedom. Don't take my word...go drive them and you will see why Foresters are selling like hotcakes!

[@SafeTeeB]

Great photography shows my biggest gripe about AWD systems at 2:15 where the right steer of the Honda is brake locked in the hill climb. Almost all (or maybe all) AWD systems use the ABS to brake the wheel that slips which can be VERY treacherous on black ice. It was certainly no help in climbing that hill. Auto makers could save a ton of money by using a good old fashioned manual 4WD gear box in some of their cross-overs. I may be the minority in this desire though making the market too small.

[@classix848]

I have a 08 legacy and it's pretty low to the ground. I was still plowing through a blizzard storm in NY while SUV's with much higher ground clearance were getting stuck or crawling 5 miles per hour. Subaru has the best AWD period.

[@birdy..nom..nom..097]

same here, i plow through jerz in my 08 leggy during snowstorms...love that thing

[@thethreatwrestling.7053]

I drove the 2021 Forester and the 2021 CR-V both AWD. In my opinion thw Forester has the superior AWD system compared to the CR-V. These cars are comfortable, smooth rides, practical, and spacious. At the end, my decision was getting the CR-V AWD. I feel happy driving my car in winter.

[@johnpa2006]

Aside from my head gaskets needing replacement on my 2010 Forester (non turbo) its done great in all the horrible snow I get up in North East PA. I never put snow tires on it, just regular All Season tires. 174000 miles so far but still doing great in horrible weather. I actually like the CRV and RAV4, but Subaru has the AWD thing done right !

[@yanglue611]

Subaru has the best AWD. Toyota has the best reliability. Honda has the best gas economy.

[@beekhang18]

Tires can change the outcome a lot in this test. I still think the forester would've still win but wouldn't be by much. If I wanted a compact awd cuv for short term, it would be the forester. But if I wanted one long term, it would be the rav4.

[@pattii55]

I'm on my 2nd Subaru Outback Sport. There's a reason it's the most popular car in hilly, snowy, Ithaca NY

[@ThaddeusReeves]

+pattii55 4th Subaru for me. (Outback Sport / Outback / WRX / Forester XT) :)

[@eoinmaclean6478]

I remember reading a CR article about this topic; it also covered snow tires and compared AWD to 4WD in regards to winter driving. Subarus perform so well because at least 20% of the power is directed to the rear wheels when AWD is engaged.

[@JJ-mh3hb]

Awd is ALL-ways engaged and it's way more than 20%

[@traviscollins3249]

@@JJ-mh3hb First time Subaru owner here, then what is the difference between “Subaru AWD” and 4wd? 😅😅

[@oliververnon8120]

@@traviscollins3249People like Subaru awd because it’s what’s known as symmetrical AWD the engine connects to a center diff(AWD is the default driving mode meant for highways, 4WD gets activated once you’re off-road or stuck). This is where Subaru gains advantage over Toyota and Honda because the front and rear driveshafts are equally weighted and the half axles from the front and rear differentials to the tires are equal length as well(symmetrical) When you slam on the gas all wheels break traction at the same time. This makes Subarus more driveable and more fun in mid/low grip conditions.

[@oliververnon8120]

I just saw your reply was 8 months ago, how was the winter with the Subi

[@plmn93]

@@JJ-mh3hb Yes I believe it's 40%. Most AWD systems disengage completely above set speeds, usually around 20MPH. Subaru's does not and is why they perform so well in snow.

[@hbeezey]

Wow, they were slower in snow than on pavement? Just an amazing informative video.

[@bmwmsport11]

Tires are more important than a good AWD system. You can have Quattro or 4matic or symmetrical AWD etc. but with junk tires(like all OE tires), you aren't getting anywhere. As long as the AWD system puts power down to all 4 wheels(not a RWD or FWD biased system), you will get around just fine in snow, if you're solely basing it off of the drivetrain. Otherwise snow tires are a must in snow for best performance.

[@dj7291993]

While I can't argue with you on the tires bit (the tires that the previous owner had on my 2000 Forester were junk), your statement on all wheel drive is a bit off. it's not just that there is power at all four wheels, it's how it is distributed, and whether the stabilities systems compliment the awd, or get in the way. I can tell you from first hand experience that the CR-V doesn't send enough power to the rear wheels to move the car if the front wheels completely looses traction (in out case, the right front tire lifting off the ground on a mountain road). While I haven't had a Rav-4 in that situation, I can tell you the Forester will push through on just the rears. Also, as a mechanic who gets to drive all kinds of cars with all kinds of tires, in my opinion, Subaru and Audi have the best awd systems. Tires are most important, but the drive system makes a huge difference.

[@dfw_motorrad1329]

Even a FWD car with winter tires will outperform most AWD cars with all-seasons in the snow. But obviously if you want the best snow performance, get a Subaru and a set of winter tires. You could still get by with even a RWD car if you have winter tires and you're smooth and light on the inputs.

[@Monkeyseemonkey79]

This seems like a test of the different stock tires, more than the AWD system. I'd love to see these three cars fitted with the same Blizzak winter tires and then put through the same test.

[@Hon_cb1kr]

Subaru wins. Honda and Toyota awd is complete rubbish

[@abot4694]

@@Hon_cb1kr you're quite ignorant.

[@walj12748]

Love love love my Forester.

[@thetechlibrarian]

10 years and 150k later what suv would you rather still own or buy with the least amount of high cost to repair problems

[@barnee27]

I'm weighing my options on which to buy right now and that's a big question for me. I've always had good experiences with Toyota in the past, and while I really like the safety features of the Subaru and am drawn to some of it's, I'll call it "adventurability", I can't decide if giving up Toyota's reliability is worth it.

[@thetechlibrarian]

@@barnee27 what did you go with?

[@brandonwright2067]

I have a 06 ford freestyle awd and I've pulled two outbacks out of a ditch in flagstaff Az last winters during the snow storm my vehicle seem to perform better due to its heavier weight and more power but hey that's just my experience during 2016 I will be goin back up their this Christmas 2017 and hopefully god willing come home safe

[@nivlem131303]

i drive 2018 jeep compass trailhawk and i have much respect on subaru foresters.....

[@freeframetv]

Hi. What exactly doing the button ( power a/t hold automatic ) in automatic transmission - gearbox in SUBARU FORESTER 2.5cc 230ps 2006

[@vectraB97]

All season tires are worse than studded winter tires with every single stud removed. All season tires is a bad summer tire and a very poor winter tire. In other words you buy a expensive car with the tires that's worst in class for every situation. Much worse than bad unstudded winter tires.

[@TomTom-gn9mp]

Time for a 2019 mashup of these vehicles with identical tires.

[@fredharvey2720]

They always run on OEM tires.

[@rockssocks5451]

It's stupid...run the same tires....

[@TheTroyKunz]

I have had very bad luck with the 2013 -2015 subarus. 2013 wrx 3 transmitions withing 40,000 miles. 2014 subaru legacy was the worst by far, awd failure ,anti lock break failure , steering failure, traction control actually caused me to get into an accident. Let me explain while going down a steep hill on a right hand turn my passenger side tires hit a patch of snow and locked up , sending the rotational force to the driver side , causing the car to violent turn hard to the right and pushed me off the road and caused an accident. Also the car will hesitate when pulling out from a stop , is very bad if the car is on a slight bit of gravel the car will stop in the middle of the street and then after a second re engage the power, not to mention the stalling and countless other problems . Have been to the dealer multiple times and they have said the car is functioning as intended , even contacted subaru corporate , had the same experience . If you decide to look at a subaru during the test drive ask to test the awd system if they say no or have no way for you to test it leave and do not trust them.

[@aerosaaber]

they need to use the SAME tires (all seasons or otherwise) if they want to really compare the cars in shitty conditions. Tirerack could have provided a set of matching all seasons and matching snow tires for each vehicle, then they could have ALL bases covered (stock tires, matching all seasons, matching snows) and provide regular people w/ even better more complete information. Having said all that, I'm on my second Subaru and I've been using snow tires for almost 20 years, I won't enter a winter without them.

[@6mtzhp55]

I understand what you're saying, and would like to see such a test myself, but they are doing this the right way. It is because roughly 85%+ of AWD/4WD owners they surveyed did not change from OEM tires in snowfall regions. In another video they mention that no one follows their advice on winter tires, so they are showing what a typical buyer can expect from an OEM tire/AWD system when they buy these cars. This type of buyer, perhaps set on the CR-V styling/features/etc, might be wondering if the AWD trim is worth it over the less expensive FWD. In this case, for the same or less money, it appears a FWD CR-V with winter tires is a better option than the AWD trim with OEM all-seasons in snow conditions. In our case, we have the same philosophy - why screw around - match the leading AWD system available with a set of winter tires. Insurance deductibles have nothing to do with it considering you can be maimed/killed, or kill someone else. When you are driving on your winter tires, your 3 season tires are staying fresh, extending their life (but not so long that they'd dry-rot). It seems clear that the competitor systems work as the engineers intended, as they've hardly improved over several generations (traction computer takes away almost all power, no slip allowed, little clutch engagement to driveshaft, laggy and reactionary). As an side, I have an Outback with a cheap set of separate WRX wheels and studdable winter tires. After my girlfriend crashed an all-season equipped Focus on mixed snow and ice (along with 5 others) over a shaded hill crest (cops closed the road after), I convinced her to get a new Impreza then installed WS80 Blizzaks on a separate set of wheels. Nothing is invincible or even close, but integrating AWD with a good traction/stability control system that helps it find some grip, yet doesn't let yaw get completely out of control, really helps. My problem is my older Outback lacks stability control, whereas my BMW and S2000 (both RWD, manual) do have it. The Outback being a manual sends 50% to the rear all the time. The oversteer is fun at lower speeds, but when I am trying to get through a sweeping on-ramp alive, I really wish it had stability program. Winter tires give me an edge in lateral grip and rear on-power/lift throttle stability that gives me back that margin of error. How is your luck in convincing friends and family to equip winter tires, especially when they have 4WD/AWD?

[@snowrocket]

+aerosaaber You sound like me! Subaru AWD and General Arctic Altimax snow tires (can't get the coveted Blizzaks in a 185/70-14 size any more). Yeah, everyone else complains about "how bad the roads are/their car is in snow". Not me.

[@snowrocket]

+Doug Gallivan Doug, I'll answer that last question: Not much luck convincing most people, and I preach that "winter tire gospel" all year round here in northeast Ohio. Those that HAVE taken the advice immediately and happily told me how well it worked out for them. Last year a friend got X-Ices and Blizzaks for his Honda Accord and the wife's Ford Freestyle FWD. They were both thrilled with the results.

[@JuddsonIvines]

They are all using the same type of tire. In the first 30 seconds the announcer says they are all using all-season tires.

[@normt5463]

^^^Yes^^^ Our long gone 2012 Forester, aside from oil consumption and cracked windshield, wire the tires to the wear bars in 19K miles. They might be good mud & snow tires but wear out too soon!

[@bernardsantos9094]

now do a review again after 6yrs. Im planning to buy 2nd hand