Forester vs prado: the battle for adventure-ready versatility

When it comes to choosing a capable and reliable SUV for off-road adventures, two models that consistently stand out are the Subaru Forester and the Toyota Prado. Both vehicles offer impressive performance, versatility, and comfort, making them favorites among outdoor enthusiasts. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the key differences between the Subaru Forester and the Prado to help you make an informed decision about which one is the perfect fit for your needs.

Performance and Capability

Engine Power and Torque: The Subaru Forester comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. The Prado, on the other hand, offers a more powerful 3.0-liter V6 engine that generates 249 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque.

Drivetrain: The Forester utilizes Subaru’s renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which provides excellent traction and stability in all driving conditions. The Prado features a full-time four-wheel drive system with a low-range transfer case, giving it superior off-road capability.

Towing Capacity: The Forester has a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds, while the Prado can tow up to 6,500 pounds. This makes the Prado a more suitable choice for heavy-duty towing tasks.

Off-Road Prowess

Ground Clearance: The Forester offers a ground clearance of 8.7 inches, which is adequate for most off-road trails. The Prado boasts a higher ground clearance of 9.6 inches, allowing it to tackle more challenging terrain with ease.

Approach and Departure Angles: The Forester’s approach and departure angles are 18.2 and 25.9 degrees, respectively. The Prado has slightly better angles at 31 and 25 degrees, providing it with greater maneuverability over obstacles.

Hill Descent Control: Both the Forester and Prado feature hill descent control systems that help maintain a safe and controlled speed while descending steep slopes.

Interior and Cargo Space

Passenger Capacity: The Subaru Forester offers seating for five passengers, while the Prado can accommodate up to seven passengers with an optional third row.

Cargo Volume: With the rear seats folded down, the Forester provides 76.1 cubic feet of cargo space. The Prado has a more spacious cargo area with 90.3 cubic feet of capacity.

Interior Features: The Forester’s interior is well-equipped with standard features such as a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and heated front seats. The Prado offers a more luxurious interior with leather seats, a larger touchscreen infotainment system, and a premium sound system.

Safety and Reliability

Safety Features: Both the Forester and Prado come with a range of advanced safety features, including lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking.

Reliability Ratings: The Subaru Forester has consistently received high reliability ratings from organizations such as J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. The Toyota Prado is also known for its excellent reliability and durability.

Fuel Efficiency and Cost

Fuel Economy: The Subaru Forester has better fuel economy than the Prado, with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The Prado gets an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

Pricing: The Subaru Forester starts at around $25,000, while the Toyota Prado starts at around $45,000. The higher price of the Prado reflects its more powerful engine, larger size, and additional features.

Which One Is Right for You?

The Subaru Forester is an excellent choice for those who prioritize fuel efficiency, affordability, and everyday practicality. It offers a comfortable interior, a capable all-wheel drive system, and a wide range of safety features.

The Toyota Prado is the better option for those who need a more powerful and capable off-roader. It boasts a more spacious interior, a higher towing capacity, and a full-time four-wheel drive system with a low-range transfer case.

Basics You Wanted To Know

1. Which vehicle has a better warranty?

Both the Subaru Forester and Toyota Prado come with comprehensive warranties. The Forester has a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The Prado has a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, as well as an additional 6-year/100,000-mile warranty for the drivetrain.

2. Is the Subaru Forester available as a hybrid?

Yes, the Subaru Forester is available as a hybrid model, which combines a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor.

3. Does the Toyota Prado have a third-row seat?

Yes, the Toyota Prado offers an optional third row of seats, allowing it to accommodate up to seven passengers.