SHOWDOWN! -- 2025 Subaru Forester Touring vs. 2024 Toyota RAV4 XSE: Comparison

Here's our comparison between the New 2025 Subaru Forester Touring and 2024 Toyota RAV4 XSE Hybrid!
Looking to buy any vehicle? Go to carconfections.com/new-car-qu... to learn about invoice pricing and get the BEST PRICE on vehicles in your local area!
Subaru has totally redesigned their very popular Forester for 2025. With the best-selling Toyota RAV4 in their sights, Subaru is ready to take on this segment leader! However, which one is the one to buy? Go ahead: CLICK to find out :) Also, be sure to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and tap the notification bell if you enjoyed this review -- it helps us more than you can imagine!
#toyotarav4 #subaruforester #carconfections
Make sure to follow us on our other social media platforms!
TikTok: @carconfections
Instagram: car_confections
Find ALL our Sound Level Readings on our new website:
carconfections.com/sound-leve...
And, check out our online merch store:
www.bonfire.com/store/car-con...
0:00 Intro
0:51 Pricing Breakdown
2:00 Detailed Exterior Comparison
4:21 Interior Comparison
8:39 Test Drive & Impressions Comparison
14:07 Sound Level Reading (dB) Comparison
15:32 Resale, Reliability, and Value
17:18 Comparison Conclusion
© Car Confections, LLC 2024. All rights reserved.
“Sampling the Latest Automotive Delicacies!”

[@CarConfections]

Are you looking to buy a Toyota RAV4, Subaru Forester or any new vehicle? Go to carconfections.com/new-car-quotes to get the BEST price and access to invoice information!

[@lynnhart1423]

The new 2025 Forester is Beautiful! Since I have had many Foresters and one Outback, I am sticking to the Forester!!!!

[@BEASTxMODE]

Test drove both 2024 editions and I went with the Forester 🙌

[@Hallowsaw]

Im going to say this in every comparison. Bigger wheels is not a benefit. Higher tire cost, worse ride and lower fuel economy.

[@markvelasco4011]

Cool factor and better handling with the larger diameter, but even that can be affected by other things. Personally, 18” is my maximum - anything bigger is just not practical for these types of vehicles.

[@0HOON0]

One big pothole is all it takes to regret the big wheels.

[@matthewjohnson1211]

And if you're actually taking your SuV off road. -Not good!

[@patrickliston9595]

Any size wheel can accommodate a tire size to your liking. Larger wheels means less rubber for the same tire diameter, which means more likely a flat when hitting potholes/curbs. Smaller wheels are better in that regard.

[@PJboy443]

@@patrickliston9595that’s not true. Large wheels can’t accommodate a tire with a large sidewall and still fit on the car.

[@freddy2141]

YOU NEVER TALK ABOUT THE SAFETY , SUBARU HAVE THE FIRST PLACE 🥇.

[@moneypenny174]

Forester all day, every day.

[@sulaimansafi5457]

Forster interior look like 2015 cars model

[@moneypenny174]

@@sulaimansafi5457 do you really think your comment matters? 🤭

[@lennygarrison6836]

@@moneypenny174Lol you sound like a Subie fanboy! 🤣

[@moneypenny174]

@@lennygarrison6836 and you sound like you take the bus, Mr Garrison! 🤣🤣🤣🚌

[@lennygarrison6836]

@@moneypenny174I actually do take the bus. I’m accompanied by your mom! She goes everywhere with me!!

[@Tonga2]

Waiting for my 2025 Forester Sport !

[@akilghosh]

I hope you get it faster than it for from 0 to 60 😂

[@ferrari162004]

@@akilghosh😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@cherochero2294]

Toyota's hybrid system's cost performance remains remarkably strong. Subaru's upcoming hybrid will also use the Toyota system, so we're looking forward to it.

[@ronaung]

Enjoyed your videos. I drive a 7-8 year old Subaru Outback. I really like that it has auto-dimming rear view mirrors (optional). They make driving at night a lot better, without getting glares. This option is something that most cars in the price range don't even offer. A lot new luxury vehicles offer the feature only on drive side mirror. I think you should consider in your feature comparison. :-)

[@Tialian]

I own a 2017 Outback (bought in 2016) and it has been great. I don't like the interior changes on the newer models.

[@ryanfrisby7389]

A comparison on a Saturday, we’re getting spoiled, great video!!

[@howardweir7501]

I’m very happy with my 2024 RAV4 hybrid Limited here in NZ - haven’t seen the new Forester but as a past owner of 2 Foresters, I know they’re good. Hybrid system in Rav is great - I’m averaging 5.5 L/100

[@jvddavid1589]

5yr+ old design of the rav4 is still going strong..even compared to redesigned/refreshed models..that speaks volume on how good the rav4 is..

[@shanew151]

I just bought a 2025 Forester sport. Love it so far. Amazing interior quality, smooth ride, with low road noise.

[@notsodelusional]

Good comparison!

[@kencarlsen2212]

Thanks for the great reviews! I just bought a 2024 Subaru Forester Touring, as I kind of like the features over the new 2025. Please do a sound test locally so we can get a comparison. Also, on your "sound test chart" you have a smile rating....what is the basis???

[@ibdustin15]

Leased a Subaru and it was be my last. 2019 Subaru Legacy with oil consumption issues. They refused to do an oil consumption test and just did free oil changes until my lease was over. The service manager literally said they are not allowed to do oil consumption test unless it’s severe. Mine was burning about a quart every two weeks. I wonder what severe was!?!?! Toyota all day. Now own a 2022 Camry Hybrid LE and it’s great.

[@hyojoonus]

Yup, I own a Subaru and it consumes 1qt per 1k miles. And sometimes more. I’m the only one still checking oil level at every gas fill-up like it’s the 60’s. Love the AWD system, but I wish. Subaru would just get its engine (or transmission) together.

[@WatchTheJoeChannel]

I live in NJ, and we have had rough winters, so I would get the Forester.

[@Tialian]

I test drove the new model rav4 when it came out and at 5'11" it felt a little cramped up front, I did think the camera in the mirror was cool though. On the other hand I've driven a newer model Forester recently and it is super roomy up front, both with head room and the distance the wind shield is away from the driver. It reminded me a lot of the 2005 Scion xB I used to own. I currently own a 2017 Outback and it feels just right.

[@Drg24800]

Wish they could’ve compared this with the Limited RAV4 since it would also be the highest trim level.

[@CarConfections]

RAV4 has such a price premium these days we had to go one down from the top

[@DominionAnako-bb7ry]

Love your video 📹 ❤️ 💕 ♥️ 💗

[@walter.zikalala]

I've been watching your reviews for sometime now. You guys are simply awesome! I'll go with the Subaru Forester anytime!!!

[@robertcunningham1944]

One caregory you omitted was safety. Check the IIHS ratings.

[@tinker1148]

Forester for me.

[@housco11]

I prefer the Forester for safety all around. Exclusive Symmetrical all wheel drive. Hybrids are good in the city/ frecuent stops help to improve gas mileage. In the highway, the story is different; no gain. More weight to carry over.

[@bobsander4739]

Love this one!!

[@nchia]

Although the Forester has a larger infotainment display, it’s arguable the usable viewable area is smaller for maps as it’s in portrait mode, and parts of the screen is permanently dedicated to HVAC controls.

[@Gopinathk17]

That is one stupid laggy infotainment screen..Subaru acts like they dont have money to change anything.

[@innerpeacetv1]

So, technicaly, if forester had same power train as Rav-4, then it would be a clear winner?

[@Ittou-Ogami]

Согласен.

[@Gopinathk17]

Infofainment and external design are bad as well.

[@Gopinathk17]

In other way, If Rav4 makes interiors bit more comfortable then its a checkmate.

[@lsu205]

You should include glove box storage along with console storage.

[@techpappee]

Would it be fair to do a gas model versus gas model instead of hybrid versus gas model?

[@Gopinathk17]

Why not when the hybrid is available for the same price of Forester.

[@SebastianMonroe-yd3nu]

@@Gopinathk17 because they are not the same bruh that's why. Non hybrid vs Non hybrid is what should of been compared in this video.

[@Gopinathk17]

@@SebastianMonroe-yd3nu I know they are not same but price wise can get Rav4 hybrid XSE trim for the same price of touring trim of forester, that's why I said. Even if you compare it with the gas version of Rav4, the forester is much underpowered and less reliable power train and high maintenance costs comparatively.

[@Beagle21]

What do mean by dual exposed outlets on the rear of the RAV4 vs SF?

[@WCTubeful]

Wondering if Subaru still have the TCV failure issue or changed the design yet. Heard they even avoid to honor the warranty.

[@koskos1971]

Please make the decibel measurement during acceleration also.

[@jonclassical2024]

I would go with the 2025 Forester, if Subaru comes out in late 25 or 2026 using a "Toyota" Hybrid System, this will be a RAV4 killer!

[@terrystarr3012]

Hi guys ,does the 2025 Subaru Forester come now with a redesigned the cooling system.regards

[@stevenb.1041]

Look for a video by Mr Subaru very recently about that topic. Yes, they have corrected the issue with the plastic part and have gone back to aluminum. When I heard about that problem and that the '25 is corrected, I decided to wait for the '25

[@raymondpiovesan5903]

Forester has a CVT. The gas Rav does not. You did mention CVT? Why?

[@michaelptm2269]

Wasn’t it 8.2 for both?? How did the rav-4 win? Didn’t get that one….

[@wadeglogiewicz7011]

I did not see the the comparison of the superior 4 wheel compared to Ravv 4 . What happened ?

[@AquaAmazake]

Gonna tell you one thing. I’m 6’6 and I don’t fit in a rav4 at all. As a passenger I can squeeze but my knees hit the wheel to drive so keep that in mind. I do fit everywhere in the forestor.

[@alariaaurora8456]

These comparisons are not objectively the best car comparisons in the entire KZbin But also watching them is like watching 2 car reviews simultaneously Which makes them the best car videos overall imo

[@edschultheis6767]

Ventilated seats only come on the highest level of the Forester as well. Won't find it on Sport, unfortunately.

[@bam3618]

The forester 0 to 60 is PAINFUL

[@stephenrosenfeld833]

I owned three Foresters and said I didn't need a turbo. Then one day the dealer offered me a ridiculous trade-in price for my 2019 Forester on a '22 Outback Wilderness, which comes with the turbo engine. I would never go back! I really wanted a Forester Wilderness, but won't get one without the turbo.

[@matthewjohnson1211]

If they would just do what Toyota does: a 200+h.p. 4 cyl. And small electric assist motor for power in acceleration. Better gas mileage as bonus!

[@hyojoonus]

And it’s going to hit10 seconds if they don’t come up with more power.

[@cnobillbradley9673]

My Fozzy XT 0 to 60 5.9

[@scottanthony3426]

@@stephenrosenfeld833 Yup. I got the Forester XT back in 2014, and am struggling to find a suitable replacement. I could live with the lesser acceleration of a RAV4, but the lack of content at the price point is a trade-off. But yeah, this Forester is barely adequate on power. You really feel it once you get over about 50 mph, then it just has no punch. FYI, the Forester Wilderness uses different gearing (same 2.5 engine though), which gives it better acceleration (at the price of mpg). But that suspension/wheel/tire combo felt too mushy vs the other trim levels. Not worth it if you don't off-road or need your roof rack to carry a 700 lb static load. I think the Outback Wilderness has gearing that makes it quicker than the other XT Outbacks too. I was almost ready to pull the trigger on the '24 Touring Forester, which is being offered for pretty good prices, but I just couldn't see myself being happy with the gutless drivetrain. Back to the drawing board on the car search. Kind of hesitant to jump into a new RAV 4, because I'm seeing that the '25 model year will be all new. Ditto the CX-5 over in Mazda world. Subaru drivetrain engineers need to burn some midnight oil to get the hybrid coming soon.

[@Pccpy]

I don’t know but my forester pulled rav4 and crv out of snow in Minnesota in past two years.

[@vjmtz]

Personally I'd go with Forrester... I prefer its looks more than the softer Toyota look they've been doing for a long time, and its a bit more cramped in the driver seat from what I've experienced. I debate on going hybrid....sure you get more HP and you save on some maintance and gas, but you kind of kick the costs down the line for when the battery or e-cvt needs fixing down the line - basically looking at traditional transmission repair costs. Subaru's are pretty reliable and have better saftey and real AWD. Not a beast fort sure, but the additional maintancese and gas use does hurt it. But you will get more bang for your buck and their interest rate is way lower than Toyota's lately who don't care if you walk out the door lately.. Its a tough call and you can't go wrong with either. It comes down to preferences really

[@mikecremona1405]

I recently ordered a 2025 Subaru Forester Touring to replace my 2018 Subaru Forester Limited. This will be my 5th Subaru. I also, currently own a 2019 Subaru Ascent Touring.

[@Gopinathk17]

Why that many Subarus? You should have given a try for Toyota or Mazda.

[@lorenschwiderski]

What's up with the brake light on Toyota being as small as a 1970's bicycle tail light?

[@janelaplant5780]

I'm all in with the Suby!!!!!!!

[@albertlim5054]

Forester owners loves the start stop features.

[@ffotograffydd]

It’s strange that you don’t have the hybrid option for the Forester, it’s the only option available in the UK.

[@dominique3398]

Both are great cars, but different at the same time. This Forester is a new generation, and in my opinion has a better (more "premium" ) interior as well, however the RAV4 is a hybrid option...well..not an easy choice but fuel efficiency aside, I would go to the Forester.

[@FlowersInAlaska]

Great video. The problem with Hybrid that people don't take into account is the cost of the car + ownership time. The only way you're breaking even on your money with Hybrids is if you own the car for about 7 - 10 years depending on which year you got it. I always feel this should be addressed. I just wish Toyota would update their RAV 4 design. I personally think it's just outdated and the interior just feels plastic like to me.

[@ffotograffydd]

Aren’t most people buying these cars to last? I know I expect to be running my RAV4 for ten years plus, especially given that, here in the UK at least, we get a 10 year warranty so long as it’s serviced by Toyota.

[@oneiros1401]

The biggest "no" for me in the forester is the CVT.

[@alsheremeta]

Another channel compared a Crosstrek Wilderness to TRD RAV4 in deep snow, the Crosstrek was better and the AWD system on the RAV4 overheated.....

[@antonbasin1210]

I like Forester. But that weird CVT acceleration bugs me. I like how the engine sounds with the classic gear switching. But when the car accelerates and the engine RPM freeze at 3000-4000 RPM it sounds like you trying to run a car on the first gear only. Weird feeling.

[@hphillips7425]

We have both. The forester is much easier to get in and out for older less flexible people. The RAV has more power ,better fuel injection system and is more fuel efficient.

[@KeithYates]

This is just the comparison I was waiting for. When I come out of the grocery store into the parking lot it seems every third vehicle is a RAV4. For that reason I'd go with the Subu although I think I'll wait for the hybrid version.

[@superseries7007]

Two great cars.

[@tairua2]

I find the Forester has more comfortable seats, better suspension, and with the low center of gravity boxer engine, corners better.

[@scottanthony3426]

What's up with the "accent lights" on the RAV4? I've been trying to find out if those just look "cool", or if they actually function like fog lights. The XSE trim is the only one that uses these instead of nothing, or traditional fog lights. Seems dumb that if you want the upgraded suspension that comes with the XSE that you can't get fog lights. Plus the mandatory two tone color scheme, with the only choice being the black roof, where you can get higher surface temperatures to really bake on the bird droppings (which will really stand out against the black. I've seen some IR scans of different exterior colors, and the black gets significantly hotter than light colors). Toyota "content packaging" people live on a different planet than I do. Subaru builds in a lot of content for the money. The blind spot monitor on the Subaru has indicator lights mounted on the cabin side of the side mirror casings. They are larger than most of the indicators imbedded in the mirrors and easier to see, and not confuse with the turn signal lights. Adaptable headlights sound good, although I have not test driven at night. I have driven several trim levels of the '24 Forester, and although nice, could not get excited about a long-term relationship with that drivetrain. I'm looking to replace my Forester XT, (2 liter, twin scroll turbo) and the wheezy old 2.5i just doesn't cut it. (Even worse in the heavier Outback). It's fine for around town and speeds up to about 50, but for on-ramps or passing, once it gets past about 50, it just feels agonizingly slow to pull that next 10 mph gain. It is telling that the RAV4 beats out the Forester, given that this is a new model Forester, and the RAV4 is probably in its last model year. Subaru has been asleep at the switch on drivetrains. I hope they do something "worthy" with the hybrid, and that it adds some much needed punch to the acceleration. I'd like to see some testing on slippery surfaces or snow/sand/mud to see how the electronic motor provided drive to the rear wheels compares to the full-time mechanical AWD.

[@notsodelusional]

I love the Forester, but Subaru needs to improve the power train.

[@Gopinathk17]

Design as well

[@johnfranktullo3463]

Honestly if u want more power Subie ain’t it I have the 2017 xt trim in my view the best trim bc of that engine but the forester isn’t that flashy model it’s a basic do almost everything suv

[@notsodelusional]

@@johnfranktullo3463 At 30k, the competition has better powertrains, even if the Forester is superior in other respects. It's not like Subaru does not have better powertrain options available.

[@johnfranktullo3463]

@@notsodelusional like what ?

[@notsodelusional]

@@johnfranktullo3463 outback has a turbo. In terms of competition, every other manufacturer has a hybrid option that gets better mpg. Some get better mpg and are faster.

[@ctclardy]

I like almost everything about the Forester better than the Rav4 except for the power and fuel economy. Therefore, I would buy the Rav4 over the Forester until I've had an opportunity to see what the Forester's new hybrid option offers.

[@ffotograffydd]

We have the Forester hybrid in the UK, fuel consumption and emissions are pretty bad compared to the RAV4 hybrid. It’s a shame because it’s probably a better car over all.

[@ffotograffydd]

If you compare the two cars on UK websites bear in mind the UK MPG figures will be different to US MPG figures due to the US gallon being different to the Imperial gallon.

[@ctclardy]

@@ffotograffydd Does it have any more power than their base engine?

[@ffotograffydd]

@@ctclardy Not sure, we only have the hybrid version so I have nothing to compare it to.

[@ctclardy]

@@ffotograffydd Do you know the HP and torque of it?

[@joek1353]

Looks like a ipad or tablet just glued onto the dash for the subie

[@Mt-ze3xe]

Having a fully digital gauge cluster is absolutely NOT a benefit. How could that possibly go wrong???

[@RyanGalt]

Car Confections, where was this Subaru manufactured? Where was this Toyota manufactured?

[@Gopinathk17]

Both might be from the US.

[@SerNunezelNicoya]

Subaru are build and Japan and Rav 4 is build in us , Canada and Japan

[@NawsherNoor]

Do you consider different markets in case of reliability and resale value? For instance, are those results applicable in Australia?

[@CarConfections]

So our data comes from U.S companies that sample vehicles sold in the United States. That being said, brands often use the same powertrains, parts and even the same build locations for the models they sell all around the globe, including Australia

[@johnfranktullo3463]

As a 2 time forester owner with a combined mileage of 300k it’s forester I honestly don’t want to pay the premium of a Toyota bc it’s a Toyota

[@jerryslama8973]

How come no one knows if you push the sun roof open button one more time the glass will open all the way?

[@jerryslama8973]

Forester

[@ToyotaChrisWI]

So happy Subaru decided to make it look like a Ford Escape. Winner! 😅

[@MamboFerido]

I have always thought the Rav4 have smaller boot compartment. 😮

[@cjb8764]

I don’t get the part why the forester gets .5 point for $500 price difference. Gas alone would save you more money in a long run + 2 free year Toyota care.

[@brendenmolano8779]

The fact that a 4 year old vehicle ties a NEW vehicle means the Toyota is the winner regardless.

[@vzhickok]

I think I'd go for a base model mazda cx90 for 38k, need to test drive it first though and it's much bigger, lol

[@jamesrichardson559]

The Subaru Forester is great on snow and ice. I like the 2.5L non-turbo boxer engine of the Forester. Don't care for the look of the Toyota.

[@brianohare4522]

In a crash I'd prefer the Subaru over a Toyota. Granted, the real world can not have you do this comparison, yet survivability is another reason for the Forester. Toyota will supply the hybrid engine for the 2026 model year Forester. Nice comparison gentlemen.

[@Drg24800]

Both vehicles are current IIHS Top Safety Picks. What makes the Subaru safer?

[@CarConfections]

Thanks!

[@vjmtz]

@@Drg24800 Generally speaking (I don't own either but have been researching and following for years), Subaru's have always been about safety first and foremost than most if not all Japanese cars. Its really apart of their legacy. Toyota are safe too, but reliability has always been their main goal. Subaru's are considered "the European car of japan" so to speak. So projector with drive adaptability has always been a thing for them for a long time now, great side impact safety, a lot of air bags and such have been in Subaru's as standard. Their eyesight system has been standard since forever now. Toyota and Honda only recently started including these things just in the last 2 years, 3-4 years ago Toyota and Honda would make you pay up for these safety features as options. Subaru has never done that, same with fog lights and the led projectors (most brands don't offer these at all and if they do its very high trims or optional). The Toyota here required a higher trim for most of the things you see the Subaru give you as standard in the base model. Sorry for the long reply. But if safety is a concern, Subaru's are pretty much as good as it gets.. only cars with the same level in that regard are European cars like Volvo's or VWs etc which are great in that regard but you sacrifice electrical reliability in most cases, higher maintenance costs, part availability etc.

[@frankchong5585]

Being a 6 times Subaru's owner, my next will not be Subaru anymore. Main reason is in my country, dealer are not bringing in any turbo model but all the boring and NA model. My next likely will be Hybrid and there's only 1 Hybrid king in the market and that is Toyota. Another reason is Subaru seems to ditch turbo variant. I'm not sure why there's no turbo model for Forester but they bring it back to Outback.

[@QuakerPop]

Turbo impacts engine longevity. If you regularly trade in your cars, no issue, but if you want a vehicle that can go 200k or more, turbo is a liability

[@mhager1978]

Forester!!

[@intraholltd9552]

Forester Best of the best!!!

[@NicolasLaughs9320]

Buick ranks 12 slots above the industry average, Subaru ranks 11 spots above the industry average reliability

[@indaydongtv5139]

Rav4 of course!i tou dont care the overheated cvt choose subaru

[@chrishalliday5711]

If you want awd the lowest trim for the rav 31+ Subaru stars at 27+

[@justoalma9585]

Toyota and Subaru are now join venture companies.

[@adamwright9741]

It's about time to see a comparison with a point differentiation of 0.. haha. Now Subaru gets the hybrid and Toyota realizes it doesn't live in a vacuum 😅

[@Ittou-Ogami]

Пора бы уже Субару ставить Тойотовские гибриды 2.5 .

[@victorherrero4790]

Until the Forester release a real Forester Hybrid this showdown goest to the Rav 4.

[@collintuaundu7765]

How does air come through the moonroof ?😂

[@souviksen3102]

2025 forester leasing at 8.49% APR in Ontario...😂😂😂 they don't want to sell.

[@partagascigaro9694]

Subaru for life

[@vernonensminger8710]

Subie #1

[@williamgale734]

Let’s compare with 25 Toyota

[@mirceamunteanu4791]

Hate SUV's I want wagons like the ones in Europa, Asia, Australia... better handling, lower roof line - easier to load a Thule box... bike, etc.

[@sigeo1985]

なぜSubaruは、いつもデザインで茨の道を自ら選択するんでしょうか。

[@NicolasLaughs9320]

CAN’T YOU USE THE TOP TRIMS OF BOTH?! YOU ARE USING THE TOURING FORESTER AND XSE HYBRID RAV4! LIKE USE THE LIMITED RAV4!

[@roor.berllou]

Rav4看上去更像是傲虎😅

[@lucastherexcat]

You are aware the Subaru is a CVT. The Subaru CVT is a 100k to 125K mile Transmission. The Rav four is a 250k to 300k transmission. The Subi trans axle is double the rebuild or replacement cost. The car can become instantly worthless at 100k miles. As long as Subaru offers ONLY CVT by their choice, I will consider them junk.

[@BrianNC81]

Hard no on a Suburu because they still use a crappy CVT that isn't going to last the life of the car.

[@marounelhajj2668]

Forester sure

[@stephenwierzbicki4463]

Easily the New Forester Reason Being No Need to Change the Hybrid Batteries in the Future 😕❤😎🇺🇲.

[@thesunflowerpirate]

Suburu 2025 Forester

[@antoniomarroquin3649]

I rather have an 2024 forester wilderness

[@MikeStallings2023]

Subaru sound system sounds terrible with too much bass and tinny treble, and no midrange but since you used different music we don't know if it was the song's fault.

[@kwadwothestan]

Why did the Subaru sound like that when it was accelerating?😭 it was groaning

[@visiblepixels4632]

On looks alone, the RAV4 is a zillion times better, I don't care how "old" the design is.