Compact suv supremacy: subaru forester vs toyota harrier – the duel for market dominance

The world of compact SUVs is a competitive one, with automakers vying for attention with their latest and greatest offerings. Among the top contenders are the Subaru Forester and the Toyota Harrier, two highly regarded vehicles that have earned a loyal following. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the depths of these two SUVs, comparing their key features, performance, and overall value to determine which one emerges as the undisputed champion.

Performance and Powertrain

Engine Options:

• Subaru Forester: 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine (182 hp, 176 lb-ft torque)
• Toyota Harrier: 2.0-liter turbocharged engine (239 hp, 258 lb-ft torque)

The Toyota Harrier boasts a more potent turbocharged engine, delivering an impressive 239 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. In contrast, the Subaru Forester’s naturally aspirated engine produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque.

Fuel Economy:

• Subaru Forester: 26 mpg city / 33 mpg highway (EPA estimates)
• Toyota Harrier: 22 mpg city / 28 mpg highway (EPA estimates)

While the Forester has a slight edge in fuel economy, the Harrier’s superior power output may be a more important factor for some drivers.

Handling and Off-Roading Capabilities

Chassis and Suspension:

• Subaru Forester: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (SAWD), MacPherson strut front suspension, double wishbone rear suspension
• Toyota Harrier: All-Wheel Drive (AWD), MacPherson strut front suspension, multi-link rear suspension

Both vehicles feature all-wheel drive systems for enhanced stability and traction in various driving conditions. However, the Forester’s Symmetrical AWD system is renowned for its superior off-road performance, providing excellent grip and control on rough terrain.

Ground Clearance:

• Subaru Forester: 8.7 inches
• Toyota Harrier: 6.7 inches

The Forester’s higher ground clearance gives it a significant advantage in off-road situations, allowing it to navigate obstacles and uneven surfaces with ease.

Interior and Cargo Space

Passenger Capacity:

• Subaru Forester: 5 passengers
• Toyota Harrier: 5 passengers

Both vehicles offer comfortable seating for five adults, with ample headroom and legroom.

Cargo Capacity:

• Subaru Forester: 31.1 cubic feet (with seats up), 76.1 cubic feet (with seats down)
• Toyota Harrier: 28.3 cubic feet (with seats up), 59.6 cubic feet (with seats down)

The Forester provides slightly more cargo space, particularly with the rear seats folded down.

Technology and Features

Infotainment Systems:

• Subaru Forester: STARLINK multimedia system with 8.0-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
• Toyota Harrier: Toyota Safety Sense 2.0+ with 12.3-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto

Both vehicles come with user-friendly infotainment systems that integrate seamlessly with smartphones. The Harrier’s larger touchscreen and more advanced safety features give it an edge in this category.

Safety Features:

• Subaru Forester: EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control
• Toyota Harrier: Toyota Safety Sense 2.0+, Pre-Collision System, Lane Tracing Assist

Both SUVs offer a comprehensive suite of safety features to protect occupants. The Harrier’s lane tracing assist and pre-collision system provide additional peace of mind.

Reliability and Ownership Costs

Reliability Ratings:

• Subaru Forester: Excellent (Consumer Reports)
• Toyota Harrier: Excellent (J.D. Power)

Both the Forester and the Harrier have earned top reliability ratings from reputable sources, indicating their exceptional build quality and low maintenance costs.

Ownership Costs:

• Subaru Forester: Estimated $35,000-$45,000
• Toyota Harrier: Estimated $37,000-$47,000

The Forester and the Harrier have comparable ownership costs, with insurance, fuel, and maintenance expenses falling within a similar range.

The Bottom Line: The Final Verdict

The Subaru Forester and the Toyota Harrier are both excellent compact SUVs that offer a compelling blend of performance, practicality, and value. While the Forester excels in off-roading capabilities and fuel economy, the Harrier boasts a more powerful engine and advanced technology features.

Ultimately, the best choice between these two SUVs depends on the individual needs and preferences of the driver. If off-road prowess and fuel efficiency are top priorities, the Subaru Forester is the clear winner. However, if raw power, cutting-edge technology, and a more refined interior are more important, the Toyota Harrier emerges as the superior option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which SUV has the highest ground clearance?
A: The Subaru Forester has a higher ground clearance of 8.7 inches, compared to the Toyota Harrier‘s 6.7 inches.

Q: Which SUV has the most cargo space?
A: The Subaru Forester has slightly more cargo space, with 31.1 cubic feet with the seats up and 76.1 cubic feet with the seats down.

Q: Which SUV has the best fuel economy?
A: The Subaru Forester has a slight edge in fuel economy, with 26 mpg city / 33 mpg highway, compared to the Toyota Harrier‘s 22 mpg city / 28 mpg highway.