2021 Subaru Forester vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

Searching for the perfect SUV can be difficult sometimes. However, being aware of its specs and features can ease the search process and provide an understanding of what works better for you and your drives through Atlanta, GA. When it is all said and done, we believe the Subaru Forester brings more to the table than its competition. Check out the differences between the 2021 Subaru Forester and the 2021 Toyota RAV4.


Engine Performance

A significant benefit of the Subaru Forester is that all-wheel drive comes standard. Unlike the 2021 Subaru Forester, an all-wheel-drive version of the 2021 Toyota RAV4 isn't standard and higher than the standard front-wheel drive. Considering Georgia's terrain and environment (hills, weather, etc.), sporting an all-wheel-drive vehicle would be more advantageous than a two-wheel-drive car, allowing the driver to have more traction and a smoother ride even on clearer roads.  

Interior

Despite its compact nature, the 2021 Subaru Forester provides space and comfort for all passengers. Similar to the RAV4, the 2021 Forester seats five passengers. The cargo space throughout the vehicles, however, differs in measurement. Check out some of the differences:

Subaru Forester dimensions:

  • Headroom: 41.2 inches in the front and 39.6 in the back
  • Legroom: 43.3 inches in the front and 39.4 inches in the back
  • Shoulder room: 58.2 inches in the front and 57.2 inches in the back

Toyota RAV4 dimensions:

  • Headroom: 37.7 inches in the front and 39.5 inches in the back
  • Legroom: 41 inches in the front and 37.8 inches in the back
  • Shoulder room: 57.8 inches in the front and 56.4 inches in the back

    • In the Forester, all five passengers will have more head, leg, and shoulder room than they'd have in the RAV4 to ensure everyone stays relaxed during any trip. Compared to the RAV4's 37.6-cubic feet cargo space with the rear seats lowered, the Forester reins in capacity with 74.3 cubic feet of it when the rear seats are lowered. So if you want an SUV that fits all your stuff, the Forester is the way to go!

    Aside from the original Subaru Forester trim, every other Forester trim comes with power-adjustable front seats that provide ten different positions for maximum driver comfort. In comparison, the 2021 RAV4 seats only offer up to eight different ways to adjust them. Heated front seats are also included with these vehicles. The difference, however, is the availability: the Forester has them fit as a standard feature for more trims than the RAV4.

    Tech

    Many of the services within these two SUVs are similar. The main difference between the services is the name and screen dimensions, the Forester having an eight-inch multimedia screen (with navigation if selected) available for more models than the RAV4.

    More Forester technology includes:

    • Subaru STARLINK Multimedia Plus system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM Travel Link, etc.
    • Harman Kardon speakers with 576-watt amplifier (for select trims)
    • 4G LTE Wi-Fi capability
    • Push-button start with PIN-code access
    • Dual front USB input ports
    • Dual real USB input ports (every trim except base)

    Connected services and third-party applications are included within the multimedia features of the 2021 Toyota RAV4, such as:

    • Apple CarPlay
    • Android Auto
    • Amazon Alexa
    • SiriusXM Radio

    Safety

    The Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4 are again similar in the features of their safety packages, but the Subaru has more benefits. Although available through optional packaging, the RAV4 doesn't typically include the Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert like the 2021 Subaru Forester. Not to mention, every Subaru Forester comes equipped with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology that provides safety technology such as a lane-centering feature for its adaptive cruise control system, which isn't in the Toyota RAV4.

    Purchase a Forester Today!

    The Toyota RAV4 may seem to have an advantage over the Forester when initially looking at its specs. However, after spec breakdowns, the Forester shows similarities to the RAV4 in some regard and how much more beneficial it is in the long run. Visit our dealership for a new Subaru Forester today!

    While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site and all information presented are provided "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Prices do not include tax, a $350 tag and title fee, or a $689 dealer fee. Not responsible for typographical errors.

    **Estimated arrival times are for reference only and may change due to factors outside of Subaru’s or the retailer’s control.