Honda cr-v awd vs. subaru forester: which compact suv reigns supreme?

The Honda CR-V AWD and Subaru Forester are two highly acclaimed compact SUVs that have consistently ranked among the top choices in their segment. Both offer a compelling blend of practicality, performance, and versatility, making them ideal for adventure-seekers and family-oriented drivers alike. In this comprehensive comparison, we will pit the Honda CR-V AWD against the Subaru Forester to determine which SUV reigns supreme in various aspects.

Performance and Efficiency: Power and Fuel Economy

Under the hood, the Honda CR-V AWD boasts a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. The Subaru Forester, on the other hand, offers a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. While the CR-V has a slight edge in power, the Forester’s larger displacement results in smoother low-end acceleration.

In terms of fuel economy, the Honda CR-V AWD returns an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, while the Subaru Forester achieves 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. Both SUVs offer similar fuel efficiency ratings, with the Forester having a slight advantage in highway driving.

Handling and Off-Road Capability: Agility and Adventure

The Honda CR-V AWD features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and composed ride on paved roads. The Subaru Forester, however, employs a more rugged suspension setup with MacPherson struts in the front and double wishbones in the rear, which enhances its off-road capability.

When it comes to tackling rough terrain, the Subaru Forester excels with its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and X-Mode, which provides additional traction and control in challenging conditions. The Honda CR-V AWD, while not as capable as the Forester, still offers a respectable all-wheel-drive system that can handle light off-roading.

Interior Space and Comfort: Roominess and Refinement

The Honda CR-V AWD offers a spacious and versatile interior with ample headroom, legroom, and cargo space. The second row of seats folds flat, creating a generous cargo area of up to 75.8 cubic feet. The Subaru Forester provides slightly more cargo space behind the rear seats, with 31.1 cubic feet, but it falls short of the CR-V’s maximum capacity.

In terms of comfort, both the CR-V and Forester offer supportive seats and a well-appointed interior. However, the Honda CR-V has a slight edge in terms of overall refinement, with a quieter cabin and more premium materials.

Technology and Safety: Advanced Features and Peace of Mind

The Honda CR-V AWD comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of technology features, including a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a host of driver assistance systems. The Subaru Forester offers a similar level of technology, with an 8-inch touchscreen, smartphone integration, and a wide range of safety features.

Both the CR-V and Forester have earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). They offer a comprehensive suite of airbags, advanced driver assistance systems, and other safety technologies to ensure peace of mind on the road.

Reliability and Ownership Cost: Durability and Value

The Honda CR-V AWD has a reputation for exceptional reliability, with consistently high ratings from J.D. Power and Associates. The Subaru Forester, while not as reliable as the CR-V, still ranks among the better compact SUVs in terms of dependability.

In terms of ownership cost, the Honda CR-V AWD has a slightly lower estimated annual maintenance cost than the Subaru Forester. However, the Forester offers a longer warranty, with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, compared to the CR-V’s 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

The Verdict: A Close Contest with Distinct Advantages

The Honda CR-V AWD and Subaru Forester are both excellent compact SUVs that offer a compelling blend of practicality, performance, and versatility. The CR-V excels in terms of power, fuel economy, and interior refinement, while the Forester shines in areas of off-road capability, cargo space, and technology.

Ultimately, the best choice between the Honda CR-V AWD and Subaru Forester depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize power, fuel efficiency, and a premium interior, the CR-V is an excellent choice. However, if you value off-road capability, cargo capacity, and advanced technology, the Forester is the better option.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Which SUV has more horsepower?
A: The Honda CR-V AWD has a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with 190 horsepower, while the Subaru Forester has a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine with 182 horsepower.

Q: Which SUV gets better fuel economy?
A: The Honda CR-V AWD has an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, while the Subaru Forester has an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.

Q: Which SUV has more cargo space?
A: The Subaru Forester has more cargo space behind the rear seats, with 31.1 cubic feet, but the Honda CR-V has a larger maximum cargo capacity of 75.8 cubic feet.

Q: Which SUV is more reliable?
A: The Honda CR-V AWD has a reputation for exceptional reliability, with consistently high ratings from J.D. Power and Associates.

Q: Which SUV has a longer warranty?
A: The Subaru Forester offers a longer warranty, with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.