really great well-rounded review. We chose the Forester sport. Better price and better features for the money. All wheel drive standard, big ground clearance standard. the extra power was almost unnoticeable in the rav, and the lack of Android auto support was the final killer. and while I do like the looks of the Toyota, I don't think the Subaru is a slouch by any means, I think it's actually more well proportioned. Seeing you both sit on the back hatch speaks volumes, that RAV cargo area is tight. Eyesight is standard on the Sport in the US. if you really want a sporty vehicle buy an actual sports car not an SUV, that is my only critique. Reviewers get stuck on what is sporty on vehicles that have no need for it, or are sporty enough for what these really are, small family SUVs for those that are active.
Great review. My wife and I bought the Forester sport two months ago. We were replacing a Honda with 200k miles (which was still running great BTW) and after 6 months of research we were stuck between these two models. I slightly preferred the Toyota Adventure and she greatly preferred the Forester. She won. We have done a couple of road trips and have about 4K miles on it and we are both very happy with the Subaru. Looking back, I don't think the Rav 4 is worth the extra money. It was about a 5K difference where we were shopping. Both are very nice vehicles though. Not a wrong choice here.
Subaru wins the look here. Forester's designers have successfully embraced chisel and rugged design without trying too much. It is classy and simply elegant. RAV4 looks too busy for me, it gives me the racing boy vibe.
I disagree, I much prefer the Rav4, the Forester looks like everything else on the road, very boring. I do love the look of the classic 2004 Forester though.
it's exactly why subaru has tried to city-ized the 2025 forester will it work ? definitely not in Switzerland where people casually buy Audi, BMW, Mercedes and Range Rovers they can never get those customers as they buy a brand before a car, on the other hand foresters are everywhere in farms and mountains and I can't understand why our local dealerships have cars in stock without the oem hitch I have never seen a forester or outback without one
This video is all about personal preference. I did a research before i bought the rav4 comparing to forester. Did some check box on the side. I mean you can’t get wrong with either cars they’re both great.
1:25 “i think that it would appeal to people who are older and people who are younger” or you might know them by the other name they go by.. ‘everyone’
Canadian winter's I'm taking the AWD that gets me through snow, light offroading, saves a tonne on gas and has bulletproof reliability & resale value. 2019 Rav4 hybrid all day.
On about two weeks in my Subaru. From Orange county and comfortable to Big Bear and dirt roads, still comfortable. Would trust this thing in four feet of snow if I had to because I've seen it get through it before. Great car so far.
"There's a lot of people that are outdoorsy, they want vehicle that not only suits their needs but their lifestyle." I feel like I'm stuck in a marketing meeting waiting for the lunch break.
Scott Holden By 1mpg? And how is the Subaru AWD System better when the Trail has a true torque vectoring Limited Slip Rear Diff and the Subie is only Brake vectored? Also the power split of the Forester is not as capable as the RAV which can split 50/50 Front/Rear... Subie is 60/40 Front/Rear.
@@brodiwheeler7583 and thats why its most likely to see a Subaru on a trail instead of a Rav4. Do you even have an idea why the system is called Symetrical? Do you even know what layout it uses. Subaru build the car around the system, bot the system around the car. Thats the difference. Subies are meant to be AWD and will always be. Their AWD uses less parts, is lighter, and will send power to the rear wheels no matter what. And the Toyota may have an LSD, but the Subaru replicates it near perfectly, rear and front. The Rav4 has always been and always will be FWD based vehicle.
Not!!! You guys really dropped the ball on this one. You basically picked the RAV for it's looks, which is a purely subjective assessment. The Forester is a much better vehicle overall, less expensive, and gets better gas mileage. You said it yourselves, but still picked the RAV. Lost all credibility in my eyes guys.
I really wanted to like the new RAV's (especially the hybrid version) because my 2011 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was so reliable and all round great even with its CVT transmission (nothing wrong with CVT's unlike comments here). There are more Toyota dealers though, but they are really often as bad as any other dealers. Based on repeated road tests I made, I found the new Forester Premier superior in most ways. It may not be the best looking, though the RAV4 looks better in pictures than on the road (subjective) but it has the many advantages like: CU rating best by far (also best source for long term reliability data). Plenty of power for the type of vehicle (turbocharging might only be an advantage at high elevations and would reduce its excellent fuel economy) Huge improvement over previous Foresters with this 2019 model ( that were already excellent) Less cheap looking plastic, cramped interior Real leather, not plastic seats Better ride and handling. Airy interior, better sunroof (panoramic, though not tilting), much better visibility and space utilization. Better long distance cruiser. Wider rear hatch. Smooth engine and excellent transmission (CVT with simulated gears and paddle shifters) Outstanding AWD X Mode performance with snow, mud and steep downhill control. (The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has incomplete AWD system similar to the Highlander Hybrid) Better brakes. Proper roof rails with higher load rating. (most RAV4 models have flush rails with fixed attachment points for crossbars that are not far enough apart for things like rooftop tents.) etc. Similar towing capacity to non-Trail RAV4's. I don't tow. Fit and finish better, though the RAV's I saw were among the first off the line, so they may later be up to Toyota's excellent standards. I find the more I drive the 2019 Forester Premier, the more I like it.
Great review! I own a 2016 Forester. Even though the engine it not super powerful, it sends some power to the rear wheels without waiting for the front wheels to slip, which improves it performance. You can feel the power in the rear wheel push you, instead of the front wheels pulling you. You have to step up to luxury SUVs to get a longitudinal, rear-wheel drive train. All other mass-market crossovers are based on transverse, front-wheel drive architectures.
HereIgoAgain I test drove both the 16 and 19 forester and the 19 addressed almost every issue I had with the 16. That and only a $8,000 difference in price, I think I’m sold on the ‘19 Foz
For us the hybrid in the RAV4 made the difference, and we’ve never regretted the choice. It makes 36 mpg. But without the hybrid option we probably would have chosen the Forester.
I was thinking about the same but then I did calculation on the price jump due to being a hybrid. It takes about 6 years to balance out the extra cost of a hybrid with less fuel consumption, so it make sense to go for the mileage ONLY IF you decide to own the vehicle for more than 6 years. But then, when the time comes for you to sell it, there's a big hit on the retail price because buys will generally worry about or try to avoid a car with an old battery (unless you spend a lot of money again to replace the battery).
We actually only paid a few hundred extra for the hybrid, but we get the hybrid mainly for the environmental impact, not for the economics. Also, our other car is a 12 yr old Prius that still doesn’t show any sign of problem with its hybrid battery so I don’t think that’s an issue either.
I've driven the RAV4 hybrid that my gf dad owns and driven a Forester of the same model year as a rental for a week while my gfs Crosstrek was being serviced. Overall ride quality, The Forester wins. The style, the set up, the openness of the interior space, just felt more open than the Rav4.The interior of the RAV4 felt like there was way too much going on. MPG wise; the RAV4 Hybrid wins by a mile. And all this is coming from a Toyota loyalist and I've always bought Toyota. At the end of the day, I don't think either car is a bad choice. Toyota does have the advantage from their reliability record though.
It would have been interesting to factor in their awd systems. Certainly, here in the east the road conditions, even for urban driving, can be difficult during the winter. For that reason, and the high safety standards, I prefer Subaru.
Just bought a 2021 forester Touring. This is a fantastic value, plus my wife and I truly love it! we bought it because we will be traveling form Fort Worth to Indianapolis this winter to take my Mother to see her Great Grandchildren this winter, and we really liked all of the AWD and safety features that the Subaru offered. plus I got almost 5,000 dollars off the MSRP ! Cant beat that with a stick!
@@AcuRobbie I am at 110K with my 2015 forester. I had a 90s outback that a friend totaled at about 300K miles. No problems with either. Looking at getting a new forester soon.
Brodi Wheeler Yeah but let’s honestly compare Toyota’s system vs Subaru’s Eyesight. Eyesight is camera based, can detect collisions further and can brake to a higher speed than the Rav4
Ricky Sharp What does “... can brake to a higher speed than the RAV4” mean? Toyota uses Canera AND Milimeter Wave Radar. The Camera only system has limitations that the RADAR + Camera doesn’t. Safety Sense has a few more features that I don’t believe Subaru includes standard. They both have limitations, but my comment was mostly to point out that Eyesight being standard is not a “win” when Toyota includes Safety Sense as standard also.
Brodi Wheeler Subaru’s Eyesight Driver Assist is a state of the arc system and is industry leading. If we really study into the systems, Toyota’s system uses its camera based technology for the lane departure and lane keep assist, where as the radar in TSS is used to activate the pre-collision braking system and adaptive cruise control. TSS can also only guarantee the vehicle will come to a complete stop to 50kms a hour and can only reduce a collision past that speed. Subaru’s Eyesight can completely stop the vehicle from a collision up to 70kms a hour and also features brake light recognition also which TSS cannot. Pre-collision throttle management is also another crucial collision prevention element that is found in the Eyesight technology which can’t be said for TSS. There is no denying that TSS is a fantastic safety system but my point is, Subaru’s Eyesight is a step ahead and becomes unmatched for its safety. If the TSS system in the RAV4 was better than Eyesight in the Forester, it would be the RAV4 and not the Forester claiming JNCAP’s highest ever safety score.
Jacob K. How? Subaru is tiny and Toyota is huge. Doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out Toyota will sell more. Subaru is making cars at their full capacity and still selling less that 900k cars in the us.
I’m just under 6’3”. Eagerly waited for the new RAV4. They reduced front legroom & head room. My head hits the roof unless the seat is tilted way back & legroom is way to short for comfort. I fit much better in my daughter’s 2018 RAV4. Subaru has much better legroom & front headroom. We then tried the new Santa Fe & wow, what a nice vehicle. It has luxury, all safety features, excellent leg & head room, excellent cargo capacity, excellent power, quiet & drives great. We bought the ultimate top line Santa Fe & so far are loving it. I can’t understand why so many auto manufacturers don’t consider taller drivers. Just add an antra inch or two of seat track, if the driver is shorter then the track simply isn’t used, however the vehicle can now be a choice for taller drivers, as the seat can slide back farther.
joe TheBet yup, I agree, had both Toyotas & Hyundais & both have been excellent for reliability. The Santa Fe just seems much better for the price & I actually fit comfortably.
I recently rented a Subaru Forester sport in Victoria BC and drove the Coquihalla pass through to Kamloops then on to Salmon Arm. Damn that Forester was so very rock solid (up to 140km), AND good power that’s ready at all speeds, great visibility, smooth, quiet, comfortable, easy ingress-egress, well appointed, roomy, and excellent cargo space. I would say the Subaru Forester Sport is an extremely competent, integrated car / SUV that obviously has years of Subaru racing pedigree in its bones…for me it is head and shoulders above Toyota RAV and other SUV’s in it class.
I have a 2019 forester and love it, its functionality is unbeatable within its class, but I prefer the rugged look of the rav4, especially the drab green one. At the end of the day, however, functionality wins the day imo. Edit: forgot to mention that the 2019 model has no turbo. The lack of a turbo isn't a deal breaker for me, but many people feel a need for it. All I'll say is that so far, the only time I wish I had a turbo was when I'd want to pass another car on a single lane road. Otherwise I can deal with a sacrifice in horsepower.
Our 2015 Forester lost its first transmission at 48,000 miles. The second one started going out at 105000 miles. $9500 repair bill, totaled the car. Coworkers 2012 outback transmission failed at 118,000 miles, $ 7500 replacement cost, totaled the car. Friends 2016 Forester transmission failed. Subaru’s CVTs have serious issues and I would only buy a manual... I certainly would never own one out of warranty. Subarus will also cut power in high torque situations such as deep snow and steep obstacles in order to keep The CVT from Destroying itself....So that symmetrical awd can’t even be used to it’s potential. our Subaru experience has left me feeling a bit salty to say the least. Also get used to changing wheel bearings, it’s a character building exercise. Considering our experience and the people around me who have owned Subaru’s I have no idea how the brand has a reputation for reliability...
2012 Outback with a similar experience - first transmission went at 68K. Second one made it to 220,000. Third one (used with 50k already on it) only made it another 40k and failed shortly after the head gasket repair - doh! I will never recommend a Subaru with a CVT.
Our Subaru Ascent needed a new transmission at 7700 miles and I'm not alone. A lot of late 2018 build dates need new CVTs. My first and last Subaru, after 20 years of Toyota/Lexus I decided to try another brand....
in 10 years with 6 different cars with CVT's (2010 Outback -wife's, 2013 Outback (daughter's), 2014 (son-in-law's), 2015 (son's) Crosstrek, 2017(wife's) Outback, 2019 Ascent) in the family, NO repairs or maintenance costs on our Subaru CVT's. Not a single problem.
Well rounded review, the reviewers reveal their personal biases honestly so we can easily decode where we disagree. They've honestly said they like the RAV because it's noisier, less refined, and more expensive, with a less sophisticated AWD system, but it looks sportier, making them feel it's a more fun or exciting drive. The advantages of the Forester are that it is quieter, smoother, with a better AWD system, and less expensive... and it looks boring and stealthy, hence less prone to getting a ticket... so I can enjoy the stereo, drive just a bit faster, and have a happier wife. What they described as the more "open feeling" of the Forester was due to the widely acknowledged better outward visibility, which might make it just a bit safer. I think they have convinced me I like the Subie better.
I hear this, but then I see car testers slamming Subaru reliability. It just does not figure. I'll still go with Subaru as my brother still had his very reliable 12 year old Legacy.
tinker1148 I was considering both these makes and these particular models...I went with the Subaru, I don’t have a good reason why I didn’t get a Toyota, I tested the Subaru first And it had everything I wanted so there wasn’t any need to try the Toyota. I’m very happy with the Subaru sport... I’ve never been in a rav4 but my brother got the 2019 Tacoma at the same time I got my 2019 forester and his Toyota is so small inside.
My 2014 Forester was junk. Engine had to be replaced 30k miles in; oil “consumption “ issue. Will never buy one again. YMMV of course but that’s my 2 cents
Yeah the screen in the forester has been set into the dash , which to me means it’s been well thought out . The Toyota screen looks like an I-pad has been placed onto the dash it’s not very nice looking
Toyota is dark inside forester bright roomy and airy .the dash on the forester looks professional and built in nicely the Toyota looks like it’s been put together clumsy looking
That makes no sense at all lol. Neatest looking CUV out right now you call clumsy looking lol. Put your sunroof lid back and it will brighten it up inside. Both interiors are dark...🤔 I like it dark inside my vehicles, hence the reason people, such as myself, tint their windows. Reduces heat, glare, and gives you privacy. Want light? Put the windows down 😁 unless it's raining
Forester sport all day. I have the silver sport with the blacked out tires and it looks a bit sportier than other colors imo. Very attractive vehicle. I get comments on it all the time. The safety systems on Subarus' are simply superior. They have been a company designed around safety and utility since inception. Let's not forget the price of the Rav4 trail is considerably more. Seriously both vehicles are legendary in reliability. Something about that open, glass house cabin of the forester says "Let's go on a fucking adventure through forest in the mountains." It's an all around amazing vehicle and I honestly can't say enough good about it but the openess of the cabin and visibility I am truly in love with. It brings the outdoors in the car.
Im having trouble finding one to buy! Of the 3 dealerships, only one isnt priced at MSRP. Now I have one I might get, but I have to wait till saturday, and its not even the colour I want.
Saw the new forester and I really like the new design, something with subaru and photos doesn't go well. In flesh the car looks stylish while keeping it roots. I'll take the forester over the rav 4 anyday....
I own a Rav4 and an Impreza sport hatch. Honestly, we love the Subaru because it is quieter and rides better. However, the Rav4 does have more power so hubby uses it as his commuter car. I drive the Subaru. I think it just depends on if you want something with a quieter , softer ride if so you want the Subaru.
There's one thing that Subaru owners like a lot, which is the confidence they have driving in snow. Thumbs up goes to Subaru's all wheel drive system. I realize snow isn't a constant factor in Vancouver, but it is is the rest of Canada! I bought my first Subaru(a Forester) in 2006 and just recently replaced it(after 315K kms) with a 2019 Forester Sport in pearl white, just like your review model. I did test drive a few other models, namely the VW Tiguan, Ford Edge, Kia Sorento and Subaru Crosstrek. It wasn't difficult for me to gravitate towards the new Forester, especially with all the new bells and whistles and price point. Value is also a big thing for me. I used Gislaved(Nordfrost I think?) snow tires on my '06 and had no problems with snow, even on unpaved roads in Haliburton, Ontario. In the city they were just great. We've had several heavy snowfalls in Toronto but each time, I was confident that I wouldn't get stuck and was never disappointed - and we know how residential side streets are always the last to get plowed when the plows are busy. I am curious though - how does the Toyota Rav4 all wheel drive compare to the 2019 Forester?
I agree, I like the head to head format comparison and the review hit on all points. I am not in Target Market on either of these vehicles as I go for Sport/Hot Hatches, but if I was to get one then might as well go for King of this segment The Forrester and its even cheaper to boot.
The rear views in the back of the Rav is horrible. It has huge blind spots in the “C” pillar and rear hatch. I had a Rav 4WD Limited, but I’m more satisfied with the Forester, hands down.
Great review. I actually prefer the Forester because I like the refinement. I had a 2016 RAV4 and it was a good car but it had a lot of rattles. I took it back a few times and finally got it fixed. I've never owned a Subaru but I may get the Forester.
I'm sorry guys, but I've got the Forester and it wins hands down, and I drove both. I happen to like a quieter ride and it looks like Toyota is trying too hard with the orange interior. The sightlines in the Forester are unbelievable and you really don't need the blind spot sensor because there really aren't any blind spots. Then look at the cargo openings side-by-side. No contest. Also, the android capability in the Forester is huge because I don't have an iPhone, so the RAV4 would be useless. And I used the extra 4 grand I would've paid for a very nice vacation. 😉
i had a Subaru once, two transmission replacements, I'm still very leary of their transmissions, and I've heard bad things about the cvt, but I did like the Subaru, but the rav4 has a top reliability rating. so there you have it
Paul N/A I have a 2011 outback 3.6r with 5 sp auto transmission and timing chain. At 110k this has been amazingly reliable. My other vehicle is a 1997 4runner with 334k. Yota will last forever but for a 6 cyl wagon that didn’t have the German tax this was the best option-- not to mention at the time I lived in CO, so the AWD was perfect. I am sold on the 3.6r line, but I’d never buy the newer Subarus with CVT.
Our family has owned 6 Subaru CVT equipped cars since 2010. LOTS of miles on them all. NO repair of ANY kind on any of the CVT's. In 42 years of driving Subaru cars, we've NEVER had any replacements on ANY equipment than tires, batteries, wiper blades and brakes. Period.
I bought the Forester shown in the comparison. The other vehicle I was interested in was the RAV4. The RAV 4 lost the battle because of the horrible engine noise under hard acceleration and the cramped interior.
Jonas Reno I think every vehicle in this class without a turbo can be said to be underpowered. I did not want head snapping acceleration but my goal was fuel economy over power. I traded in a V6 RAV4 so I was concerned with all the reviews I was reading on vehicles in this class regarding acceleration but after two months of ownership, I am ok with the acceleration. I can merge with no issue and I have a big smile when I drive by filling stations.
William King That is correct. I just did not like the AWD system on the hybrid. I also live in a very harsh winter climate and wonder how effective a hybrid would actually be.
I performed this exact comparison back in October 2017. I test drove both vehicles and the price difference was the same, about $4000.00. The Toyota was more expensive. For me, the winner was a easy choice: I bought the Subaru. The moment I sat in the Subaru it just "fit" me better. The Toyota seemed more difficult to enter and taller. The Subaru was easy to enter and exist. The Subaru also won in the AWD and comfort category as well. I did feel the Toyota was better looking of the two, but I value comfort. Both are premium vehicles. Just test drive first, to see which is best.
seems like every review video about these compact SUVs says the Forester looks bland but is more pragmatic. i totally get that some people value the former quite a bit... i'm just not one of them. give me the car with a smoother drive, better visibility, more space for passengers and cargo, better AWD, and better price resiliency
Forester is more fun to drive and is more better in suv dimensions which means that it looks like a suv, feels like a suv, great interior and offroadabilty. The Rav4 looks weird and has fake AWD!
Fake AWD? Have guy driven one? Trail/Adventure model has torque vectoring. Even the hybrid has impressive offroading (see TH-cam videos). I took one for a test drive and was thoroughly impressed with its offroading. End of the day 99: of people don't even need AWD, yes even here in Canada. A good set of winter tires is what matters.
Teckniks want off-roading? Buy a jeep. Neither have the clearance nor the ability to go true off-roading. Both will do the same thing which is driving on a unpaved road or snow. Comes down to reliability and which one you likes best.
I drove my Forrester from Key West all the to Tampa and I cannot believe the gas mileage driving on the highway. It’s really superb. I test drive the RAV4 2019 but it’s so noisy. Don get me wrong, I bought a RAV4 2011 for my son and it’s still going strong.
Another thing to mention. Only the avdenture trim has the same ground clearance as the Forester. Subaru comes standard with 8.7in and awd. The Rav doesnt
Nikola Vonfulton uhh thats just because the tire size is different and the different is tiny 8.4in v 8.6in which is .2 on an inch or 5mm - youd never be able to notice that different
@@tmwall25 that could be the difference of destroying your oil pan or not. So yeah most people would notice. Especially if people are taking them on trails. Like people do.
Most people that buys these are more likely to drive to the mall than off road. These buyers tend to be just using them to drive back and forth from work. The only capable Soft reader is the Jeep Renegade. A Subaru driver is more likely driving to the mall to either buy a new vape pipe or beard wax.
I like your reviews guys but on the forester you made it sound like it was lacking safety features, when in reality even the base model Subaru’s have eyesight as a standard feature. You really dropped the ball on that one.
Today I did a test drive on both cars. Your review is perfect but I prefer Subaru as it is the best utility vehicle with the smooth drive when compared to RAV4 which has a rough feel and lots of engine noise while driving and brakes are not smooth.
The 4K thousand dollar difference in Canada is more like 7K in the US. That is the difference in price between the US RAV4 Adventure and Subaru Sport. 7k is a lot of difference for vehicles so similar.
Your not giving any facts, just opinions of look exterior and interior. I'm not saying that the Forester is better outside for looks. Hey, I'm in the car all the time anyway, I care more about the interior. The new global platform Forester has really upped the game with its interior design fit and finish and is as good if not better than the RAV4. RAV4 by many other reviews have said the RAV4 engine is loud and noisy and the 8 speed gearbox transmission is also jerky and unrefined compared to the Forester which has smooth shifts and probably the best CTV out there. Better AWD system for sure. Other reviews as well have said there's slippage happening when the AWD system kicks in on the RAV4. With the Forester it's always on and the X-Mode feature is proven to work even better in tough situations in deeper snow, mud and sand. Your also getting all this in the Forester at its base price of less than $30 grand CDN. The Forester Sport offers everything the Trail version has plus it's as you said $4,000 less. The only benefit from the RAV4 Trail version will give you more towing capacity than Forester's. Although you have to get the Trail version for more towing capacity. The LE and XLE tows the same as Forester at 1500lbs. They are both excellent vehicles and it's down to personal choice for exterior looks and interior. Both are different that way. Both have the quality, and more importantly the reliability and high resale value. Your certainly not going to go wrong with any Toyota RAV4 and now an even better than ever before Forester. Consumers Reports named Subaru the best company for 2019. Mainly because of the new global platform Forester and Crosstrek, plus the new Ascent 7 seater
2015 2.5i Forester owner here. (16 days of ownership) I love the CVT! I changed the CVTF 2 weeks ago since the car has already passed 50k. I plan on changing my transmission fluid every 45k from now on. Thats how a friend of mine has 220k on his 2014 Forester! The TR580 really is a decent transmission. The AWD... Oh my! I tested it on a muddy hill with TC off. I didnt even feel there was mud.
Great review. Really like the 2 person, car switching format. I think there's no doubt that the RAV4 is the better looking of the 2 cars, but the Forester just seems to have a much more refined power train than the RAV4. The Toyota just has a very loud engine, even by 4 cylinder standards. I had an older 2013 RAV4 and the engine just seemed much quieter than the 2019.
I own subaru cars for the last 10 years and I will never go back. i'm in canada and ya winter is a thing and the awd is really something , subaru are the best and since the beginning. You really feel secure and on your feet in winter or on rain whatever you drive the forester or the Impreza. The only thing I hate from subaru it's the comfort , it was worst before but drive for an hour and you start to move all around the seat because you are not comfortable, I mean my 2004 civic was more comfortable and I'm not kidding. i don't know if they change that but if there's something to change its that. Ho and go try the panoramic roof , I think its only subaru that have that but on a sunny day , you almost feel outside on a park with all that natural light coming in the car and that affects your mood a lot :)
The hybrid Rav 4 will save you a few hundred bucks. But then they'll stop at that and say that's the best we can do!! Buy the Forester to push them to 0 pollution
@@rjm2798 That's rubbish. I've had mine for five years and the CVT has been flawless. It's always best to actually have tried and used so that you have actual knowledge before making such a comment.
CYZ Aero I agree with the earlier comment. My sister in law has a 2012 Outback, which has an earlier version of the same CVT gear box and works well with no problems after more than 250,000km. The people saying these transmissions are don’t last are just making unsubstantiated claims.
Forester Sport wins hands down. In the US, all trims have Eyesight built in and in tests it works extremely well. The visibility and ease of entry, ginormous trunk with enormous mouth are real pluses on the Forester. Plus, I really like the black grill and wheels, as well as the Orange trim pieces. Finally, living in rural Vermont, I need a vehicle that can get me up and down icy or muddy mountain roads with ease-which the Forester does exceptionally well.
@@braetonwilson4296 Not all CVT are created equal. Subaru's CVT has been refined and it works well with their boxer engine. I like to think it's better than the CVT on Honda and Nissan. Subaru has fixed their head gasket issue with the 2019 and newer models. That being said, not all CVT is unreliable.
I'm more of a Subaru than Toyota fan, but this new Rav4 is very appealing, especially in that blue with the white roof. The achilles heel for me (with any Toyota product) is the pricing. It stings compared to others and they don't like negotiating much on pricing. That's a hard pill for me to swallow.
They hold their value better than most cars and a lot of that is to do with how reliable Toyota's are. You are paying for reliability and a car that will have a good resale value in 5years or so when you want to upgrade
I don’t like the new look of the Rava. I hate what they did with the wheel wells.I like the more rounded look of the older rava. I sat in the Forester and the room inside was incredible. I need ta try one out. I could live with the outside look of the Forester.
I went with the 2019 Adventure and love it. There's not another car on the market that I can tow my 22 foot pontoon and then when not towing get 34-35 mpg hwy. The motor is a little noisier than most but not intrusive. My only complaint is with the transmission programming. It does lurch if you don't come to a complete stop then give it gas and it likes to drop down a gear a little to eagerly and leave you out of the powerband when you need power. Both issues I feel could be tweaked with a firmware update and it will beat everything the Forester has to offer besides feeling like you're in a fish bowl.
@@brodiwheeler7583 I'll be willing to put my money where mount is. I'm in California and I happened to have a 2011 forester. I'll be happy to meet you somewhere and test them out
Fernando Trejo What are we talking about here? A lot has changed since 2011. No need to come here to Colorado, or for me to go back to California... many Off-Road tests already exist and more to come. Stay tuned. FYI: I own a 2015 WRX & a 2015 Forester XT, I’ve driven the New one, Outback Tested, RAV4 Adventure Tested. I always criticized FWD based AWD systems (still do if they don’t have balanced or torque vectored power distribution) RAV4 Adventure is legit and ain’t getting stuck on any snowy roads in the hands of capable operators. Laterz Brah
The difference maker for me is the comfort level and visibility of the Forester. It is much easier to get in and out of a Forester if you are over 6 ft tall. Also the the AWD system of the forester is a proven beast. The Rav - 4 is also nice, but I think you get bigger bang for the buck with the Subaru.
I'm going with Subaru all the way. Once you drive a Subaru AWD system on snow or ice you'll know the feeling. Drove couple Toyota, Honda, Mazda in my lifetime and nothing beat a Subaru. I got Outback, waiting to get a used Ascent once it gets a bit cheaper. I wish Subaru to introduce a minivan also.
Great review. I enjoyed seeing two different opinions. I test drove a Forester last week. I liked it overall, but found there was a lot of travel on the brake petal before the brakes engaged, which was a deal breaker, no pun intended. Also, do you know of any tests on the safety of panoramic sun roofs? It seems to me they can’t be as strong as a metal roof in a rollover, but I can’t find any data on this. My husband is a former police officer, and he won’t buy anything with a large sun roof for safety reasons. You may have rain there, but I see the cherry blossoms and flowers are out!
So, to those who always cries that Subaru doesn't have enough power, this video proves that it feels like the Rav4. And the CVT under normal driving it feels like a normal transmission. Now my personal experience with both, as recently took the Adventure Rav4 2019 off road. The car still behaves like a 2wd sending power to the rear. I tried to climb a step rocky incline diagonal, to leave the wheels of the ground, and the system worked way much better than previous Rav4. In fact, the old model wasn't able to climb. This one it does, but it took long enough to understand what to do. It felt in a moment the car didn't have the power to climb (so to the people that says CVT kill the Subaru in off road, trust me, this Rav4 struggled a bit too) but at the end I did go up, and it felt pretty good any way. But taking in consideration that was not "smooth", and the poor departure angle of the Rav4 (you can see on this video how exposed is the two exhaust in this Rav4) plus power feeling, engine noise... I still think the Subaru wins, but the Rav4 feels closer to the Forester than before.
Baltazar Campos Nieto I'm just over people gaining about CVT. Honda is still known for dependibility and they have CVTs. Subaru has a great one. Plus there are so many crap transmissions. Ford's dct, Toyotas auto in the Tacoma, jeeps autos also get major complaints that people love to ignore.
@@Michael-ur5qb I'm agree. For normal driving CVT in Subaru doesn't feel much like a CVT, unless you are racing all the time? Then I think you are looking the wrong type of car. Yes, the CVT as a transmission is the most weird or less loved transmission, but Subaru has done probably the best CVT of the market.
based on my blood and my soul, Subaru will not never be replaced by any, but i have to admit one thing that Rav 4 looks more sporty and modern in exterior design.
It’s always a pleasure to see you two reviewing together. It was an interesting idea to do it side by side. I agree with most of your points. It was well thought out. One factor that wasn’t considered (and for a new review, I’m not certain it should) was resale and scarcity. I don’t know which has a lower/higher depreciation ....but I do know which one has the higher manufacturer numbers. And that is why, in my opinion, I would buy the Subaru. The ‘Trail’ may look nicer today... but wait until there are 12+ of them in your neighbourhood or Walmart/Costco parking lot. Thanks for another video.
I bought a 2019 Forrester sport for my wife, and a 2020 Outback Onyx XT for myself? I almost bought the RAV4, my wife’s family has 3 Rav 4’s, and they have been bullet proof?I think your doing good with either, but once you drive the Forrester, it stands out ; how much better your visibility is than ANY other car!
i believe RAVs are sold with two drive-trains... one is a 2-wheel drive... the other a AWD. But Toyota looses is trying to follow a Subie. Toys can't make it......
My wife and I used to love our 2014 Subaru forester. It made to 285 thousand kilometers, and then the transmission piled up. And yes we did all the regular maintenance on it. Called transmission places to get it fixed. Most said they would not even touch them because once they were rebuilt They would only get another forty k Till they failed again. And the ones that would fix them. Said it was minimum four thousand to repair it up 8 thousand plus. We are in the process of buying a RAV4.
really great well-rounded review. We chose the Forester sport. Better price and better features for the money. All wheel drive standard, big ground clearance standard. the extra power was almost unnoticeable in the rav, and the lack of Android auto support was the final killer. and while I do like the looks of the Toyota, I don't think the Subaru is a slouch by any means, I think it's actually more well proportioned. Seeing you both sit on the back hatch speaks volumes, that RAV cargo area is tight. Eyesight is standard on the Sport in the US. if you really want a sporty vehicle buy an actual sports car not an SUV, that is my only critique. Reviewers get stuck on what is sporty on vehicles that have no need for it, or are sporty enough for what these really are, small family SUVs for those that are active.
Great review. My wife and I bought the Forester sport two months ago. We were replacing a Honda with 200k miles (which was still running great BTW) and after 6 months of research we were stuck between these two models. I slightly preferred the Toyota Adventure and she greatly preferred the Forester. She won. We have done a couple of road trips and have about 4K miles on it and we are both very happy with the Subaru. Looking back, I don't think the Rav 4 is worth the extra money. It was about a 5K difference where we were shopping. Both are very nice vehicles though. Not a wrong choice here.
You are a wise man to let your wife win the decision to buy the Forester. Happy Wife = Happy Life. 😂
I drove both and picked the subaru. i love the seats, the tall windows and the low hood.
Forester for my wife hands down. She just bought a 2019 Forester Sport and loves it.
I own a Forester and drove a RAV4 in Costa Rica. The entire time I drove the RAV4 up and down those mountain paths I wished it was my Forester.
Was the RAV4 awd is the question.
Most likely you drove RAV4 with smaller engine while in Costa Rica...
It’s maybe because you don’t know how to drive.
@@1974gladiateur Lol, that must be it :)
Subaru wins the look here. Forester's designers have successfully embraced chisel and rugged design without trying too much. It is classy and simply elegant. RAV4 looks too busy for me, it gives me the racing boy vibe.
I disagree, I much prefer the Rav4, the Forester looks like everything else on the road, very boring. I do love the look of the classic 2004 Forester though.
I much prefer the RAV4 look. Forester looks like what an eunuch would drive, no thanks!
I don't like the Rav4 body style, so ugly, like they couldn't decide what to do with it. Looking at the forester now.
it's exactly why subaru has tried to city-ized the 2025 forester will it work ? definitely not in Switzerland where people casually buy Audi, BMW, Mercedes and Range Rovers they can never get those customers as they buy a brand before a car, on the other hand foresters are everywhere in farms and mountains and I can't understand why our local dealerships have cars in stock without the oem hitch I have never seen a forester or outback without one
This video is all about personal preference. I did a research before i bought the rav4 comparing to forester. Did some check box on the side. I mean you can’t get wrong with either cars they’re both great.
1:25 “i think that it would appeal to people who are older and people who are younger” or you might know them by the other name they go by.. ‘everyone’
Think she meant on father ends of the age spectrum (ie 20s / 60s). But yeah awesome catch lol
I have yet to see a good woman reviewer of cars. They spout stuff from a script
lol it’s for older and younger people, but NOT middle-aged people lol
BURNNN LOL!
😂😂😂
I have driven Foresters , used, for the last 18 years.. The last was an XT, it was a joy to drive . I love them!
OK, I'm sold. I'm getting the 2020 Forester Sport Ice Silver Metallic.
Subaru is one of the safest vehicles on the road, and eyesight is standard now, in USA at least.
Canadian winters, i’m taking the subaru.
The forester will be my weekday everyday use home/work, my 4runner will be my weekday relaxing drives.
Canadian winter's I'm taking the AWD that gets me through snow, light offroading, saves a tonne on gas and has bulletproof reliability & resale value. 2019 Rav4 hybrid all day.
I have had my 2019 Forester since December 2018 and love it. I also got my brother to buy a 2019 Forester Sport two weeks ago.
On about two weeks in my Subaru. From Orange county and comfortable to Big Bear and dirt roads, still comfortable. Would trust this thing in four feet of snow if I had to because I've seen it get through it before. Great car so far.
"I think it will appeal especially to the older people but also to the younger". That is the definition of a useless comment.
"There's a lot of people that are outdoorsy, they want vehicle that not only suits their needs but their lifestyle." I feel like I'm stuck in a marketing meeting waiting for the lunch break.
Forester. Hands down best in the snow in New York for small SUVs.
You're right. I'm looking for a Forester and it would be ideal living in Ohio as well.
Forester - same for western NC mountains, occasional snow dumps on & off road.
Y'all really sold me on the forester. Thank you.
No-one commented on the narrow rear door in the Toyota, way bigger in the Subaru.
Bob Ronai or the massive difference in ground clearance. You can even see it when they’re sitting on the gates.
They did!
For the same price as the Forester, you only get 2WD RAV4.
I will go with AWD Forester.
$1400 more you can get Rav4 hybrid AWD. 40mpg crushes the Subaru. That $1400 will easily be made up on your resale value, let alone less repairs!
a good normal everyday driver has absolutely need for all wheel drive. 2 wheel drive works just fine
@@James-il3tq A scrap yard crushes the RAV4.
James Hybrids are typically more repair prone.
@@greenidguy9292 Have hybrids been around long enough to say that with any certainty? What are the statistics?
Forester for the size and the better MPG. Plus the best all wheel drive system.
Scott Holden By 1mpg? And how is the Subaru AWD System better when the Trail has a true torque vectoring Limited Slip Rear Diff and the Subie is only Brake vectored? Also the power split of the Forester is not as capable as the RAV which can split 50/50 Front/Rear... Subie is 60/40 Front/Rear.
Their all wheel drive system is the same one they used 10 years ago...
leonel s Who Subaru? On what? Subaru has multiple AWD systems, as does Toyota.
@@brodiwheeler7583 and thats why its most likely to see a Subaru on a trail instead of a Rav4. Do you even have an idea why the system is called Symetrical? Do you even know what layout it uses. Subaru build the car around the system, bot the system around the car. Thats the difference. Subies are meant to be AWD and will always be. Their AWD uses less parts, is lighter, and will send power to the rear wheels no matter what. And the Toyota may have an LSD, but the Subaru replicates it near perfectly, rear and front. The Rav4 has always been and always will be FWD based vehicle.
Umbra says I know what the Symmetrical AWD refers to... do you? What is your point?
They look very similar but would prefer the Subaru AWD and handling over the Rav
Not!!! You guys really dropped the ball on this one. You basically picked the RAV for it's looks, which is a purely subjective assessment. The Forester is a much better vehicle overall, less expensive, and gets better gas mileage. You said it yourselves, but still picked the RAV. Lost all credibility in my eyes guys.
Thanks for pointing that out. I just got a Forrester. You made me feel like I made the right decision.
I’m going for the Subaru Forester.
But the Subaru is ugly
Good luck with that CVT.
@@allthingsharbor it will likely last over 150k. Not sure what the problem is despite CVT's are boring.
No, the Forester is not ugly and in fact The white sport package gives it everything it needed I think.
Adam Wright it is ugly, both are ugly.
Sorry but after driving a subaru, everyone else’s “awd” seems shit.
Nothing is the boxer flat engine speaks for itself. Ever since I drove Subaru it’s hard for me to go different competitors.
Wasn’t Toyota that started the SUV fever that every one is having right now?
Nissans rouge’s all wheel drive is actually probably better lol
@@yasserrayah7919 No one comes close to Subaru.
Yes. Subaru and Audis AWD rules
There is a mistake in your review. Eyesight safety package is standard on all Foresters for 2019.
Not in Canada
@@Motormouth... are you guys from Canada?
@@markarbuckle8393 Yep, so sorey eh?
Then you should buy it in the USA to get the Eyesight. It's s Superior system then what Toyota has
No, it's not standard on all Foresters in Canada.
I really wanted to like the new RAV's (especially the hybrid version) because my 2011 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was so reliable and all round great even with its CVT transmission (nothing wrong with CVT's unlike comments here). There are more Toyota dealers though, but they are really often as bad as any other dealers. Based on repeated road tests I made, I found the new Forester Premier superior in most ways. It may not be the best looking, though the RAV4 looks better in pictures than on the road (subjective) but it has the many advantages like:
CU rating best by far (also best source for long term reliability data).
Plenty of power for the type of vehicle (turbocharging might only be an advantage at high elevations and would reduce its excellent fuel economy)
Huge improvement over previous Foresters with this 2019 model ( that were already excellent)
Less cheap looking plastic, cramped interior
Real leather, not plastic seats
Better ride and handling.
Airy interior, better sunroof (panoramic, though not tilting), much better visibility and space utilization.
Better long distance cruiser.
Wider rear hatch.
Smooth engine and excellent transmission (CVT with simulated gears and paddle shifters)
Outstanding AWD X Mode performance with snow, mud and steep downhill control. (The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has incomplete AWD system similar to the Highlander Hybrid)
Better brakes.
Proper roof rails with higher load rating. (most RAV4 models have flush rails with fixed attachment points for crossbars that are not far enough apart for things like rooftop tents.) etc.
Similar towing capacity to non-Trail RAV4's. I don't tow.
Fit and finish better, though the RAV's I saw were among the first off the line, so they may later be up to Toyota's excellent standards.
I find the more I drive the 2019 Forester Premier, the more I like it.
Great review! I own a 2016 Forester. Even though the engine it not super powerful, it sends some power to the rear wheels without waiting for the front wheels to slip, which improves it performance. You can feel the power in the rear wheel push you, instead of the front wheels pulling you. You have to step up to luxury SUVs to get a longitudinal, rear-wheel drive train. All other mass-market crossovers are based on transverse, front-wheel drive architectures.
That's a selling point. Our '96 RAV4 had that, but I read that they had gone to fwd based AWD in subsequent years.
@@rodcros you get into your Subie, turn the key and go. Don't worry about it.
HereIgoAgain go trade it for the 2019 you will love it
HereIgoAgain I test drove both the 16 and 19 forester and the 19 addressed almost every issue I had with the 16. That and only a $8,000 difference in price, I think I’m sold on the ‘19 Foz
@@brassslowhand3680 o
For us the hybrid in the RAV4 made the difference, and we’ve never regretted the choice. It makes 36 mpg. But without the hybrid option we probably would have chosen the Forester.
I was thinking about the same but then I did calculation on the price jump due to being a hybrid. It takes about 6 years to balance out the extra cost of a hybrid with less fuel consumption, so it make sense to go for the mileage ONLY IF you decide to own the vehicle for more than 6 years. But then, when the time comes for you to sell it, there's a big hit on the retail price because buys will generally worry about or try to avoid a car with an old battery (unless you spend a lot of money again to replace the battery).
We actually only paid a few hundred extra for the hybrid, but we get the hybrid mainly for the environmental impact, not for the economics. Also, our other car is a 12 yr old Prius that still doesn’t show any sign of problem with its hybrid battery so I don’t think that’s an issue either.
Forester is the Pioneer and Rav4 Trail is the follower in this category of 4 X 4 SUV Vehicles !
I've driven the RAV4 hybrid that my gf dad owns and driven a Forester of the same model year as a rental for a week while my gfs Crosstrek was being serviced. Overall ride quality, The Forester wins. The style, the set up, the openness of the interior space, just felt more open than the Rav4.The interior of the RAV4 felt like there was way too much going on. MPG wise; the RAV4 Hybrid wins by a mile. And all this is coming from a Toyota loyalist and I've always bought Toyota. At the end of the day, I don't think either car is a bad choice. Toyota does have the advantage from their reliability record though.
It would have been interesting to factor in their awd systems. Certainly, here in the east the road conditions, even for urban driving, can be difficult during the winter. For that reason, and the high safety standards, I prefer Subaru.
that would be common sense talking to you. well done !
Just bought a 2021 forester Touring. This is a fantastic value, plus my wife and I truly love it! we bought it because we will be traveling form Fort Worth to Indianapolis this winter to take my Mother to see her Great Grandchildren this winter, and we really liked all of the AWD and safety features that the Subaru offered. plus I got almost 5,000 dollars off the MSRP ! Cant beat that with a stick!
No vehicle that can beat a subaru i have a 2018 forester ride smooth , perfect off road and up hills
Any issues yet, how many miles?
@@AcuRobbie I am at 110K with my 2015 forester. I had a 90s outback that a friend totaled at about 300K miles. No problems with either. Looking at getting a new forester soon.
@@333AppalachiaEnergetics Forester XT with more power or ?
@@michaelscofield2444 touring model, the x mode is great for snow (10 -12 inches & steep long dirt driveways in the blue ridge / Smokey mountains)
@@333AppalachiaEnergetics Nice. Touring is a bad ass!
I really love the interior of the Subie, it looks amazing !
Yes, I love the red lighting around the XDrive section! At night looks great
We love our 2020 Forester Sport.
Foresters eyesight is standard so Subaru wins
Alien Bird Toyota Safety Sense is Standard as well, and it has more features than Eyesight.
Brodi Wheeler Yeah but let’s honestly compare Toyota’s system vs Subaru’s Eyesight. Eyesight is camera based, can detect collisions further and can brake to a higher speed than the Rav4
Ricky Sharp What does “... can brake to a higher speed than the RAV4” mean?
Toyota uses Canera AND Milimeter Wave Radar. The Camera only system has limitations that the RADAR + Camera doesn’t. Safety Sense has a few more features that I don’t believe Subaru includes standard.
They both have limitations, but my comment was mostly to point out that Eyesight being standard is not a “win” when Toyota includes Safety Sense as standard also.
Brodi Wheeler Subaru’s Eyesight Driver Assist is a state of the arc system and is industry leading. If we really study into the systems, Toyota’s system uses its camera based technology for the lane departure and lane keep assist, where as the radar in TSS is used to activate the pre-collision braking system and adaptive cruise control. TSS can also only guarantee the vehicle will come to a complete stop to 50kms a hour and can only reduce a collision past that speed. Subaru’s Eyesight can completely stop the vehicle from a collision up to 70kms a hour and also features brake light recognition also which TSS cannot. Pre-collision throttle management is also another crucial collision prevention element that is found in the Eyesight technology which can’t be said for TSS. There is no denying that TSS is a fantastic safety system but my point is, Subaru’s Eyesight is a step ahead and becomes unmatched for its safety. If the TSS system in the RAV4 was better than Eyesight in the Forester, it would be the RAV4 and not the Forester claiming JNCAP’s highest ever safety score.
@@rickysharp3371 I thought you meant "State of the Ark".
Wow, surprised at the comments, Subaru definitely wins this contest 👍
*checks sales figures*
.......
Nevermind.
Jacob K bad comment. Can’t compare. Different sized companies.
@@ericmcmahon2128 how? Lol. They're similarly priced. Doesn't matter the size, they're both major auto makers offering a vehicle at the same price.
Jacob K. How? Subaru is tiny and Toyota is huge. Doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out Toyota will sell more. Subaru is making cars at their full capacity and still selling less that 900k cars in the us.
@@ericmcmahon2128 If they made better cars, they'd sell more... Lol. They're both over 60 year old brands.
I chose the Forester. I’m in love with it. All my previous vehicles were Toyotas oddly enough.
I’m just under 6’3”. Eagerly waited for the new RAV4. They reduced front legroom & head room. My head hits the roof unless the seat is tilted way back & legroom is way to short for comfort. I fit much better in my daughter’s 2018 RAV4. Subaru has much better legroom & front headroom. We then tried the new Santa Fe & wow, what a nice vehicle. It has luxury, all safety features, excellent leg & head room, excellent cargo capacity, excellent power, quiet & drives great. We bought the ultimate top line Santa Fe & so far are loving it. I can’t understand why so many auto manufacturers don’t consider taller drivers. Just add an antra inch or two of seat track, if the driver is shorter then the track simply isn’t used, however the vehicle can now be a choice for taller drivers, as the seat can slide back farther.
Grampa B Hey man, tried both Rav4 Trail and Santa Fe. For about almost the same price I would take the Santa Fe.
joe TheBet yup, I agree, had both Toyotas & Hyundais & both have been excellent for reliability. The Santa Fe just seems much better for the price & I actually fit comfortably.
I recently rented a Subaru Forester sport in Victoria BC and drove the Coquihalla pass through to Kamloops then on to Salmon Arm. Damn that Forester was so very rock solid (up to 140km), AND good power that’s ready at all speeds, great visibility, smooth, quiet, comfortable, easy ingress-egress, well appointed, roomy, and excellent cargo space. I would say the Subaru Forester Sport is an extremely competent, integrated car / SUV that obviously has years of Subaru racing pedigree in its bones…for me it is head and shoulders above Toyota RAV and other SUV’s in it class.
I have a 2019 forester and love it, its functionality is unbeatable within its class, but I prefer the rugged look of the rav4, especially the drab green one. At the end of the day, however, functionality wins the day imo.
Edit: forgot to mention that the 2019 model has no turbo. The lack of a turbo isn't a deal breaker for me, but many people feel a need for it. All I'll say is that so far, the only time I wish I had a turbo was when I'd want to pass another car on a single lane road. Otherwise I can deal with a sacrifice in horsepower.
Correction!!! You don't have to buy the eyesight package on the Forester. It comes included and standard on all trims and models.
Our 2015 Forester lost its first transmission at 48,000 miles. The second one started going out at 105000 miles. $9500 repair bill, totaled the car. Coworkers 2012 outback transmission failed at 118,000 miles, $ 7500 replacement cost, totaled the car. Friends 2016 Forester transmission failed.
Subaru’s CVTs have serious issues and I would only buy a manual... I certainly would never own one out of warranty.
Subarus will also cut power in high torque situations such as deep snow and steep obstacles in order to keep The CVT from
Destroying itself....So that symmetrical awd can’t even be used to it’s potential. our Subaru experience has left me feeling a bit salty to say the least. Also get used to changing wheel bearings, it’s a character building exercise.
Considering our experience and the people around me who have owned Subaru’s I have no idea how the brand has a reputation for reliability...
2012 Outback with a similar experience - first transmission went at 68K. Second one made it to 220,000. Third one (used with 50k already on it) only made it another 40k and failed shortly after the head gasket repair - doh! I will never recommend a Subaru with a CVT.
Our Subaru Ascent needed a new transmission at 7700 miles and I'm not alone. A lot of late 2018 build dates need new CVTs. My first and last Subaru, after 20 years of Toyota/Lexus I decided to try another brand....
@@ScottClark_Hippie I'd never buy another Subaru!
Especially the rears. These cars don’t make it past 150k
in 10 years with 6 different cars with CVT's (2010 Outback -wife's, 2013 Outback (daughter's), 2014 (son-in-law's), 2015 (son's) Crosstrek, 2017(wife's) Outback, 2019 Ascent) in the family, NO repairs or maintenance costs on our Subaru CVT's.
Not a single problem.
Well rounded review, the reviewers reveal their personal biases honestly so we can easily decode where we disagree. They've honestly said they like the RAV because it's noisier, less refined, and more expensive, with a less sophisticated AWD system, but it looks sportier, making them feel it's a more fun or exciting drive. The advantages of the Forester are that it is quieter, smoother, with a better AWD system, and less expensive... and it looks boring and stealthy, hence less prone to getting a ticket... so I can enjoy the stereo, drive just a bit faster, and have a happier wife. What they described as the more "open feeling" of the Forester was due to the widely acknowledged better outward visibility, which might make it just a bit safer. I think they have convinced me I like the Subie better.
Subaru is killing it this year! Can't wait for the new STI!
me 2 man
sign me up too
Will they launch forester STI in Canada?
I hear this, but then I see car testers slamming Subaru reliability. It just does not figure.
I'll still go with Subaru as my brother still had his very reliable 12 year old Legacy.
Forester all the way.
tinker1148 I was considering both these makes and these particular models...I went with the Subaru, I don’t have a good reason why I didn’t get a Toyota, I tested the Subaru first And it had everything I wanted so there wasn’t any need to try the Toyota.
I’m very happy with the Subaru sport...
I’ve never been in a rav4 but my brother got the 2019 Tacoma at the same time I got my 2019 forester and his Toyota is so small inside.
My 2014 Forester was junk. Engine had to be replaced 30k miles in; oil “consumption “ issue.
Will never buy one again. YMMV of course but that’s my 2 cents
From what I hear, people are having issues with Subaru's, especially head gaskets.
Reading the reviews the Forester wins. I agree...
Yeah the screen in the forester has been set into the dash , which to me means it’s been well thought out .
The Toyota screen looks like an I-pad has been placed onto the dash it’s not very nice looking
Yeah , the toyota looks like an afterthought .
Mazda does the same with the iPad looking screen and it doesn’t do it for me either.
You left out the best part of this comparison, mud,snow, ice,rough terrain etc.... Subaru rules.
I just purchased Subaru forester 2021.
Gorgeous 😍.... 👍 from California.
Toyota is dark inside forester bright roomy and airy .the dash on the forester looks professional and built in nicely the Toyota looks like it’s been put together clumsy looking
That makes no sense at all lol. Neatest looking CUV out right now you call clumsy looking lol.
Put your sunroof lid back and it will brighten it up inside. Both interiors are dark...🤔
I like it dark inside my vehicles, hence the reason people, such as myself, tint their windows. Reduces heat, glare, and gives you privacy. Want light? Put the windows down 😁 unless it's raining
Forester sport all day. I have the silver sport with the blacked out tires and it looks a bit sportier than other colors imo. Very attractive vehicle. I get comments on it all the time. The safety systems on Subarus' are simply superior. They have been a company designed around safety and utility since inception. Let's not forget the price of the Rav4 trail is considerably more. Seriously both vehicles are legendary in reliability. Something about that open, glass house cabin of the forester says "Let's go on a fucking adventure through forest in the mountains." It's an all around amazing vehicle and I honestly can't say enough good about it but the openess of the cabin and visibility I am truly in love with. It brings the outdoors in the car.
Picked up my 2021 Forester Sport yesterday! Love Subaru.
Im having trouble finding one to buy! Of the 3 dealerships, only one isnt priced at MSRP. Now I have one I might get, but I have to wait till saturday, and its not even the colour I want.
Got mine yesterday after waiting 2 weeks for it. Well worth the wait.
What you guys think about Forester XT ,is it worth it to buy ? I know it needs premium gas also so it will be more expensive in longer term
@@lovefaithhopelfh3887 Got my two weeks ago and will be here on 23rd of this month and the color I wanted.😊
Saw the new forester and I really like the new design, something with subaru and photos doesn't go well.
In flesh the car looks stylish while keeping it roots.
I'll take the forester over the rav 4 anyday....
I own a Rav4 and an Impreza sport hatch. Honestly, we love the Subaru because it is quieter and rides better. However, the Rav4 does have more power so hubby uses it as his commuter car. I drive the Subaru. I think it just depends on if you want something with a quieter , softer ride if so you want the Subaru.
There's one thing that Subaru owners like a lot, which is the confidence they have driving in snow. Thumbs up goes to Subaru's all wheel drive system. I realize snow isn't a constant factor in Vancouver, but it is is the rest of Canada! I bought my first Subaru(a Forester) in 2006 and just recently replaced it(after 315K kms) with a 2019 Forester Sport in pearl white, just like your review model. I did test drive a few other models, namely the VW Tiguan, Ford Edge, Kia Sorento and Subaru Crosstrek.
It wasn't difficult for me to gravitate towards the new Forester, especially with all the new bells and whistles and price point. Value is also a big thing for me.
I used Gislaved(Nordfrost I think?) snow tires on my '06 and had no problems with snow, even on unpaved roads in Haliburton, Ontario. In the city they were just great. We've had several heavy snowfalls in Toronto but each time, I was confident that I wouldn't get stuck and was never disappointed - and we know how residential side streets are always the last to get plowed when the plows are busy. I am curious though - how does the Toyota Rav4 all wheel drive compare to the 2019 Forester?
Very refreshing format with both of you reviewing 2 different cars! Great review
I agree, I like the head to head format comparison and the review hit on all points.
I am not in Target Market on either of these vehicles as I go for Sport/Hot Hatches, but if I was to get one then might as well go for King of this segment The Forrester and its even cheaper to boot.
They are paid shills. This is an advertisement, not a consumer review.
@@MetaView7 called pay'Ola back in the days....
The rear views in the back of the Rav is horrible. It has huge blind spots in the “C” pillar and rear hatch.
I had a Rav 4WD Limited, but I’m more satisfied with the Forester, hands down.
Great review. I actually prefer the Forester because I like the refinement. I had a 2016 RAV4 and it was a good car but it had a lot of rattles. I took it back a few times and finally got it fixed. I've never owned a Subaru but I may get the Forester.
Watch out for head gasket issues with Subaru, they are known for it.
I'm sorry guys, but I've got the Forester and it wins hands down, and I drove both. I happen to like a quieter ride and it looks like Toyota is trying too hard with the orange interior. The sightlines in the Forester are unbelievable and you really don't need the blind spot sensor because there really aren't any blind spots. Then look at the cargo openings side-by-side. No contest. Also, the android capability in the Forester is huge because I don't have an iPhone, so the RAV4 would be useless. And I used the extra 4 grand I would've paid for a very nice vacation. 😉
The bright blue with a white top looks like a taxi.
i had a Subaru once, two transmission replacements, I'm still very leary of their transmissions, and I've heard bad things about the cvt, but I did like the Subaru, but the rav4 has a top reliability rating. so there you have it
Paul N/A I have a 2011 outback 3.6r with 5 sp auto transmission and timing chain. At 110k this has been amazingly reliable. My other vehicle is a 1997 4runner with 334k. Yota will last forever but for a 6 cyl wagon that didn’t have the German tax this was the best option-- not to mention at the time I lived in CO, so the AWD was perfect. I am sold on the 3.6r line, but I’d never buy the newer Subarus with CVT.
@@BernieMittens Let's be honest. Older Subaru's were much sturdier. The new outback is too bloated compared to its previous generations.
Our family has owned 6 Subaru CVT equipped cars since 2010. LOTS of miles on them all.
NO repair of ANY kind on any of the CVT's.
In 42 years of driving Subaru cars, we've NEVER had any replacements on ANY equipment than tires, batteries, wiper blades and brakes.
Period.
I bought the Forester shown in the comparison. The other vehicle I was interested in was the RAV4. The RAV 4 lost the battle because of the horrible engine noise under hard acceleration and the cramped interior.
You made a right choice
can u say UNDERPOWERED??
Jonas Reno I think every vehicle in this class without a turbo can be said to be underpowered. I did not want head snapping acceleration but my goal was fuel economy over power. I traded in a V6 RAV4 so I was concerned with all the reviews I was reading on vehicles in this class regarding acceleration but after two months of ownership, I am ok with the acceleration. I can merge with no issue and I have a big smile when I drive by filling stations.
@@Littlecat10 if you are concerned about fuel economy you should have bought a Rav4 Hybrid. 40 plus MPG! That leaves the Subaru in the dust.
William King That is correct. I just did not like the AWD system on the hybrid. I also live in a very harsh winter climate and wonder how effective a hybrid would actually be.
I performed this exact comparison back in October 2017. I test drove both vehicles and the price difference was the same, about $4000.00. The Toyota was more expensive. For me, the winner was a easy choice: I bought the Subaru. The moment I sat in the Subaru it just "fit" me better. The Toyota seemed more difficult to enter and taller. The Subaru was easy to enter and exist. The Subaru also won in the AWD and comfort category as well. I did feel the Toyota was better looking of the two, but I value comfort. Both are premium vehicles. Just test drive first, to see which is best.
seems like every review video about these compact SUVs says the Forester looks bland but is more pragmatic. i totally get that some people value the former quite a bit... i'm just not one of them. give me the car with a smoother drive, better visibility, more space for passengers and cargo, better AWD, and better price resiliency
Forester. Test them on snow and ice. Forester hands-down.
Supposing you dont have snow and ice, drive in snow or go off roading? Personally the new Rav 4 is more attractive.
Forester is more fun to drive and is more better in suv dimensions which means that it looks like a suv, feels like a suv, great interior and offroadabilty. The Rav4 looks
weird and has fake AWD!
Fake AWD? Have guy driven one? Trail/Adventure model has torque vectoring. Even the hybrid has impressive offroading (see TH-cam videos). I took one for a test drive and was thoroughly impressed with its offroading.
End of the day 99: of people don't even need AWD, yes even here in Canada. A good set of winter tires is what matters.
@@James-il3tq yeah, wait till these things wont work in real offroading situations.
Teckniks want off-roading? Buy a jeep. Neither have the clearance nor the ability to go true off-roading. Both will do the same thing which is driving on a unpaved road or snow. Comes down to reliability and which one you likes best.
I drove my Forrester from Key West all the to Tampa and I cannot believe the gas mileage driving on the highway. It’s really superb. I test drive the RAV4 2019 but it’s so noisy. Don get me wrong, I bought a RAV4 2011 for my son and it’s still going strong.
Another thing to mention. Only the avdenture trim has the same ground clearance as the Forester. Subaru comes standard with 8.7in and awd. The Rav doesnt
Nikola Vonfulton uhh thats just because the tire size is different and the different is tiny 8.4in v 8.6in which is .2 on an inch or 5mm - youd never be able to notice that different
@@tmwall25 that could be the difference of destroying your oil pan or not. So yeah most people would notice. Especially if people are taking them on trails. Like people do.
Most people that buys these are more likely to drive to the mall than off road. These buyers tend to be just using them to drive back and forth from work. The only capable Soft reader is the Jeep Renegade. A Subaru driver is more likely driving to the mall to either buy a new vape pipe or beard wax.
The rave4 comes with a million mile reliability
@guy proulx may be so but will definitely go places the Subaru cannot.
These kind of "conversation reviews" really are the best. Reminds me of the straight pipes.
RemX405 but this is better
and also ThrottleHouse
@@witsukyai1685 Different styles for different tastes!
I like your reviews guys but on the forester you made it sound like it was lacking safety features, when in reality even the base model Subaru’s have eyesight as a standard feature. You really dropped the ball on that one.
@@RemX405 depends if you really want to get there or not..... hint: use the Subie.
Today I did a test drive on both cars. Your review is perfect but I prefer Subaru as it is the best utility vehicle with the smooth drive when compared to RAV4 which has a rough feel and lots of engine noise while driving and brakes are not smooth.
Forester. Owned a 2017 Forester XT, now an 2018 WRX. Seriously thinking about going back to a Forester.
The 4K thousand dollar difference in Canada is more like 7K in the US.
That is the difference in price between the US RAV4 Adventure and Subaru
Sport. 7k is a lot of difference for vehicles so similar.
You cannot kill Subaru engines, they will continue to tick well after the competition is done.
Exactly how I describe my Subaru’s … can’t kill them
Your not giving any facts, just opinions of look exterior and interior. I'm not saying that the Forester is better outside for looks. Hey, I'm in the car all the time anyway, I care more about the interior. The new global platform Forester has really upped the game with its interior design fit and finish and is as good if not better than the RAV4. RAV4 by many other reviews have said the RAV4 engine is loud and noisy and the 8 speed gearbox transmission is also jerky and unrefined compared to the Forester which has smooth shifts and probably the best CTV out there. Better AWD system for sure. Other reviews as well have said there's slippage happening when the AWD system kicks in on the RAV4. With the Forester it's always on and the X-Mode feature is proven to work even better in tough situations in deeper snow, mud and sand. Your also getting all this in the Forester at its base price of less than $30 grand CDN. The Forester Sport offers everything the Trail version has plus it's as you said $4,000 less. The only benefit from the RAV4 Trail version will give you more towing capacity than Forester's. Although you have to get the Trail version for more towing capacity. The LE and XLE tows the same as Forester at 1500lbs. They are both excellent vehicles and it's down to personal choice for exterior looks and interior. Both are different that way. Both have the quality, and more importantly the reliability and high resale value. Your certainly not going to go wrong with any Toyota RAV4 and now an even better than ever before Forester. Consumers Reports named Subaru the best company for 2019. Mainly because of the new global platform Forester and Crosstrek, plus the new Ascent 7 seater
You can look up facts anywhere. I came here for their opinions.
2015 2.5i Forester owner here. (16 days of ownership)
I love the CVT! I changed the CVTF 2 weeks ago since the car has already passed 50k. I plan on changing my transmission fluid every 45k from now on. Thats how a friend of mine has 220k on his 2014 Forester! The TR580 really is a decent transmission. The AWD... Oh my! I tested it on a muddy hill with TC off. I didnt even feel there was mud.
Brad Creber the Toyota eCVT is by far and away the best CVT available, no belts or chains but a brilliant advanced planetary gear system, research it
Great review. Really like the 2 person, car switching format. I think there's no doubt that the RAV4 is the better looking of the 2 cars, but the Forester just seems to have a much more refined power train than the RAV4. The Toyota just has a very loud engine, even by 4 cylinder standards. I had an older 2013 RAV4 and the engine just seemed much quieter than the 2019.
I own subaru cars for the last 10 years and I will never go back. i'm in canada and ya winter is a thing and the awd is really something , subaru are the best and since the beginning. You really feel secure and on your feet in winter or on rain whatever you drive the forester or the Impreza. The only thing I hate from subaru it's the comfort , it was worst before but drive for an hour and you start to move all around the seat because you are not comfortable, I mean my 2004 civic was more comfortable and I'm not kidding. i don't know if they change that but if there's something to change its that. Ho and go try the panoramic roof , I think its only subaru that have that but on a sunny day , you almost feel outside on a park with all that natural light coming in the car and that affects your mood a lot :)
The hybrid Rav 4 will save you a few hundred bucks. But then they'll stop at that and say that's the best we can do!! Buy the Forester to push them to 0 pollution
As of 2019 all Subaru's come standard with Subaru Eyesight standard on all Subaru models
Not in Canada
Yep. They blew that. EyeSight Driver assist is included on all trim levels.
Canada loses out big on this one.
I got my forester 2019 and I love it so much. It is delight to drive and it is a very practical car.
September McKing
Wait until u have issues with CVT transmission. They don’t last long / disposable.
@@rjm2798 That's rubbish. I've had mine for five years and the CVT has been flawless. It's always best to actually have tried and used so that you have actual knowledge before making such a comment.
CYZ Aero I agree with the earlier comment. My sister in law has a 2012 Outback, which has an earlier version of the same CVT gear box and works well with no problems after more than 250,000km. The people saying these transmissions are don’t last are just making unsubstantiated claims.
Forester Sport wins hands down. In the US, all trims have Eyesight built in and in tests it works extremely well. The visibility and ease of entry, ginormous trunk with enormous mouth are real pluses on the Forester. Plus, I really like the black grill and wheels, as well as the Orange trim pieces. Finally, living in rural Vermont, I need a vehicle that can get me up and down icy or muddy mountain roads with ease-which the Forester does exceptionally well.
Review: the Subaru is the best in all aspects.
Host: I choose the Rav4
Forester looks bad and has the unreliable CVT.
@@braetonwilson4296 Not all CVT are created equal. Subaru's CVT has been refined and it works well with their boxer engine. I like to think it's better than the CVT on Honda and Nissan. Subaru has fixed their head gasket issue with the 2019 and newer models. That being said, not all CVT is unreliable.
I'm more of a Subaru than Toyota fan, but this new Rav4 is very appealing, especially in that blue with the white roof. The achilles heel for me (with any Toyota product) is the pricing. It stings compared to others and they don't like negotiating much on pricing. That's a hard pill for me to swallow.
They hold their value better than most cars and a lot of that is to do with how reliable Toyota's are. You are paying for reliability and a car that will have a good resale value in 5years or so when you want to upgrade
@@Lewythefly The new transmissions Toyota is using are garbage.
@@Lewythefly Spending $5k more on a conparable Toyota tho? Eh...I dont know that the resale is that much higher.
don't like it, don't buy it. simple. buying a new one is silly anyway....
@@Lewythefly I drive a 99 Subie, don't need a up-grade.... what for ?
I don’t like the new look of the Rava. I hate what they did with the wheel wells.I like the more rounded look of the older rava. I sat in the Forester and the room inside was incredible. I need ta try one out. I could live with the outside look of the Forester.
Forester for me!
Thanks for the review.
I went with the 2019 Adventure and love it. There's not another car on the market that I can tow my 22 foot pontoon and then when not towing get 34-35 mpg hwy. The motor is a little noisier than most but not intrusive. My only complaint is with the transmission programming. It does lurch if you don't come to a complete stop then give it gas and it likes to drop down a gear a little to eagerly and leave you out of the powerband when you need power. Both issues I feel could be tweaked with a firmware update and it will beat everything the Forester has to offer besides feeling like you're in a fish bowl.
The Rav4 is just a "sporty" look. But, you'll get stuck everywhere. This is why 80% of snow towns own foresters.
Fernando Trejo You’re wrong about the getting stuck, RAV4 Trail/Adventure AWD is more capable than the Forester’s.
@@brodiwheeler7583 nope
Fernando Trejo Real intelligent response, when you do some homework and/or have some real world experience to back up your claim, let me know.
@@brodiwheeler7583 I'll be willing to put my money where mount is. I'm in California and I happened to have a 2011 forester. I'll be happy to meet you somewhere and test them out
Fernando Trejo What are we talking about here? A lot has changed since 2011. No need to come here to Colorado, or for me to go back to California... many Off-Road tests already exist and more to come. Stay tuned.
FYI: I own a 2015 WRX & a 2015 Forester XT, I’ve driven the New one, Outback Tested, RAV4 Adventure Tested. I always criticized FWD based AWD systems (still do if they don’t have balanced or torque vectored power distribution) RAV4 Adventure is legit and ain’t getting stuck on any snowy roads in the hands of capable operators. Laterz Brah
The difference maker for me is the comfort level and visibility of the Forester. It is much easier to get in and out of a Forester if you are over 6 ft tall. Also the the AWD system of the forester is a proven beast. The Rav - 4 is also nice, but I think you get bigger bang for the buck with the Subaru.
I like the Foresters interior better
Definitely looks more upscale with Subaru's vehicles ....
Forester interior much better put together. Solid. Simple.
Ditto. Additionally the rav4 cockpit looks stale.
all subies have same interior
sol man apparently you didn’t watch some of the other reviews
I'm going with Subaru all the way. Once you drive a Subaru AWD system on snow or ice you'll know the feeling. Drove couple Toyota, Honda, Mazda in my lifetime and nothing beat a Subaru.
I got Outback, waiting to get a used Ascent once it gets a bit cheaper. I wish Subaru to introduce a minivan also.
Great review. I enjoyed seeing two different opinions. I test drove a Forester last week. I liked it overall, but found there was a lot of travel on the brake petal before the brakes engaged, which was a deal breaker, no pun intended. Also, do you know of any tests on the safety of panoramic sun roofs? It seems to me they can’t be as strong as a metal roof in a rollover, but I can’t find any data on this. My husband is a former police officer, and he won’t buy anything with a large sun roof for safety reasons. You may have rain there, but I see the cherry blossoms and flowers are out!
I dont like sunroofs they all leak eventually.
So, to those who always cries that Subaru doesn't have enough power, this video proves that it feels like the Rav4. And the CVT under normal driving it feels like a normal transmission.
Now my personal experience with both, as recently took the Adventure Rav4 2019 off road. The car still behaves like a 2wd sending power to the rear. I tried to climb a step rocky incline diagonal, to leave the wheels of the ground, and the system worked way much better than previous Rav4. In fact, the old model wasn't able to climb. This one it does, but it took long enough to understand what to do. It felt in a moment the car didn't have the power to climb (so to the people that says CVT kill the Subaru in off road, trust me, this Rav4 struggled a bit too) but at the end I did go up, and it felt pretty good any way. But taking in consideration that was not "smooth", and the poor departure angle of the Rav4 (you can see on this video how exposed is the two exhaust in this Rav4) plus power feeling, engine noise... I still think the Subaru wins, but the Rav4 feels closer to the Forester than before.
Baltazar Campos Nieto I'm just over people gaining about CVT. Honda is still known for dependibility and they have CVTs. Subaru has a great one. Plus there are so many crap transmissions. Ford's dct, Toyotas auto in the Tacoma, jeeps autos also get major complaints that people love to ignore.
@@Michael-ur5qb I'm agree. For normal driving CVT in Subaru doesn't feel much like a CVT, unless you are racing all the time? Then I think you are looking the wrong type of car.
Yes, the CVT as a transmission is the most weird or less loved transmission, but Subaru has done probably the best CVT of the market.
Great comparison guys! You are a great couple. More face to face comparisons please!!!
I love my 2004 Bluebaru Forester, she still waiting for me every morning on the driveway.
based on my blood and my soul, Subaru will not never be replaced by any, but i have to admit one thing that Rav 4 looks more sporty and modern in exterior design.
It’s always a pleasure to see you two reviewing together. It was an interesting idea to do it side by side. I agree with most of your points. It was well thought out. One factor that wasn’t considered (and for a new review, I’m not certain it should) was resale and scarcity. I don’t know which has a lower/higher depreciation ....but I do know which one has the higher manufacturer numbers. And that is why, in my opinion, I would buy the Subaru. The ‘Trail’ may look nicer today... but wait until there are 12+ of them in your neighbourhood or Walmart/Costco parking lot. Thanks for another video.
I see a lot of subarus where I live. As much as the rav4
The Forester definitely sounds like the better option!
I bought a 2019 Forrester sport for my wife, and a 2020 Outback Onyx XT for myself? I almost bought the RAV4, my wife’s family has 3 Rav 4’s, and they have been bullet proof?I think your doing good with either, but once you drive the Forrester, it stands out ; how much better your visibility is than ANY other car!
Forester would be my choice. The RAV4 does look so much better though than the previous model.
i believe RAVs are sold with two drive-trains... one is a 2-wheel drive... the other a AWD. But Toyota looses is trying to follow a Subie. Toys can't make it......
Yes, nice conceit to switch back and forth, each person driving both and responding to the differences, nicely done, appreciate the review.
I'd like to see a real comparison of them off road. I'm not talking hard core.But something somewhat challenging for this class.
Y O U T U B E . As simple as that..... Subie takes them all on.
...and wins.
@CYZ Aero LOL True!
My wife and I used to love our 2014 Subaru forester. It made to 285 thousand kilometers, and then the transmission piled up. And yes we did all the regular maintenance on it. Called transmission places to get it fixed. Most said they would not even touch them because once they were rebuilt They would only get another forty k Till they failed again. And the ones that would fix them. Said it was minimum four thousand to repair it up 8 thousand plus. We are in the process of buying a RAV4.