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.
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’
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
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
How often do people use and need advanced AWD systems? It's all marketing to get your money and make you feel safe and invincible on the road. 99% of drivers don't off-road and for winter driving a good set of winter tires is what matters. Even a basic AWD system will suffice for 99.9% of people's light offroading and winter driving. I'd rather have a Toyota hands down with much higher reliability. Also the CVT on the Subaru is pretty brutal. Even the ECVT on Rav4 hybrids is significantly better then Subaru CVTs for feel and performance.
James Subaru has a #1 safety pick by IIHS (not only for crash testing but crash prevention technology as well), is more rugged looking and more capable. Saying the forester is not as reliable is such an ignorant comment. Subaru’s are just as reliable... don’t believe me? Just go look at consumer reports... I’m 20 years old and I’d pick the forester any day over the rav4. The rav4 just looks like a mom-obile to me. One thing I do agree with you is the CVT. I don’t like them either but i heard Subaru’s CVTs are really good and it’s not even a big deal vs having an automatic...
@@James-il3tq It's not just for off-road. It's better in all road conditions. People in snowy climates would definitely benefit from Subaru's better AWD system.
@@yippie6862 We live in Canada and we have both the Toyota RAv4 (AWD) and Subaru Forester. Me and my wife are more comfortable driving the Forester during winter. My wife got stuck on the snow using the Rav4 and I also got stuck on the snow using also the Rav4 but our Forester never got stuck in snow.
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
how is the engine design from subaru these days? my dad used to own a 09 forester and both head gaskets went just after the warranty expired and it was a costly repair. my uncle's 2015 suffered from piston slap... has any of this been fixed?
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.
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.
@@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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
Accents are funny- there is a lot of subtlety. This review seems like the link to provide for what a perfect Canadian accent sounds like. Great review! :)
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
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?
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
Nice review. However, as they are both family orientated vehicles, it would have been nice to see the differences in the back seat area for the kids. And being that they are off-road SUVs, how does the RAV-4's 4wd compare to the legendary Subaru AWD system?
Team Angland I just traded a 2015 forester had a flawless 93000 miles and got 13000 for it. I thought the back seats were great on it but in my new 2019 forester they are superior. I never took my 2015 off road but there was never a problem in snow, rain or bad roads they do say it has the best AWD in the industry.
@@manuelgarcia3348 Cheers Manuel. I've seen some other reviews on the new RAV, and it's 4wd is nothing like the Subaru's system. I just don't see the point of comparing anything to the Forester without mentioning how it's 4wd system compares.
I currently own a 2015 Forester with 6 speed manual. I currently have 262K miles. Sadly the 2019 has no manual transmission option and I'd need to deal with a CVT. These two vehicles are exactly the two I will have to decide between, right down to the colors. I can't even consider the other trims of RAV4 because I HATE the other front-end. The only thing I'm worried about with the Forester is the CVT. The RAV4 has an automatic and Toyota is known for reliability in their transmissions. I need the transmission to go 250,000 miles or more without failure. Can a Subaru CVT go 250K miles with proper maintenance? In the end, I really like the Forester better in styling over even the RAV4 Adventure trim. I can get the Forester Sport with the options I want for about $2,200 less than the RAV4 I want. But will the Subaru CVT last?
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 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.
Great video guys. Debating on the Forester, would never buy a product without Android Auto, so there is no comparison there. But your vid showed a great break down of the Subaru. Thx.
Jarrett. You would never buy a product without Android Auto. Funny how millennials look at cars. I could care less about the stupid phone. Toyota wins hands down. that CVT on the Subaru is gonna crap out on you before 100k. Ask Scotty about Subarus CVT.
Your assumption that I'm millennial is comical. My reasons for Android Auto are my own, and for you to criticize someones choice is small minded at best. CVT are not ideal, and although the Forester is on my short list the CVT is a strike, but the lack of Android Auto is an automatic removal.
I am concerned about CVT in general, do you think traditional automatic would have the advantage for long term reliability? like if you drive the car to beyond 200K?
Really depends on what you do to the car and how you maintain it. I have friends who own Foresters with CVTs and they havent had a problem with the car so far. They keep them stock of course but they do take them offroad in the week. Especially for the 2019 Forester i think you wont have any problems with it too. Remember, its not a rock crawler.
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 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.
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....
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.
A good overall intro review of two iconic brands - It looks like you’re in Vancouver? I remember my trip from Australia to a constantly wet Vancouver Island so I was wondering why you did not touch on the comparative AWD systems - I’ve owned nine Subarus but stopped when the flawed CVT design was introduced in 2013. I now drive a Toyota Hilux with conventional auto - John in South Australia.
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.
OK, I'm sold. I'm getting the 2020 Forester Sport Ice Silver Metallic.
Forester for my wife hands down. She just bought a 2019 Forester Sport and loves it.
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.
Y'all really sold me on the forester. Thank you.
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 :)
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!
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
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.
They look very similar but would prefer the Subaru AWD and handling over the Rav
Subaru is one of the safest vehicles on the road, and eyesight is standard now, in USA at least.
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.
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!
"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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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".
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.
Forester is the Pioneer and Rav4 Trail is the follower in this category of 4 X 4 SUV Vehicles !
I chose the Forester. I’m in love with it. All my previous vehicles were Toyotas oddly enough.
We love our 2020 Forester Sport.
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
Your reviews are excellent, I am surprised that you don’t have more followers.
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?
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.
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 !
Zack. You not just a car review but a good interviewer. Great family review video
I know it’s all subjective, but the Forester wins hands-down. Toyota’s AWD isn’t the same as Subaru’s.
How often do people use and need advanced AWD systems? It's all marketing to get your money and make you feel safe and invincible on the road. 99% of drivers don't off-road and for winter driving a good set of winter tires is what matters. Even a basic AWD system will suffice for 99.9% of people's light offroading and winter driving.
I'd rather have a Toyota hands down with much higher reliability. Also the CVT on the Subaru is pretty brutal. Even the ECVT on Rav4 hybrids is significantly better then Subaru CVTs for feel and performance.
James Subaru has a #1 safety pick by IIHS (not only for crash testing but crash prevention technology as well), is more rugged looking and more capable. Saying the forester is not as reliable is such an ignorant comment. Subaru’s are just as reliable... don’t believe me? Just go look at consumer reports... I’m 20 years old and I’d pick the forester any day over the rav4. The rav4 just looks like a mom-obile to me. One thing I do agree with you is the CVT. I don’t like them either but i heard Subaru’s CVTs are really good and it’s not even a big deal vs having an automatic...
@@James-il3tq It's not just for off-road. It's better in all road conditions. People in snowy climates would definitely benefit from Subaru's better AWD system.
@@yippie6862 We live in Canada and we have both the Toyota RAv4 (AWD) and Subaru Forester. Me and my wife are more comfortable driving the Forester during winter. My wife got stuck on the snow using the Rav4 and I also got stuck on the snow using also the Rav4 but our Forester never got stuck in snow.
Honestly im undecided between the two. Namely i need the vehicle that will go 200k miles with as little major maintenance or repair aa possible.
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
The bright blue with a white top looks like a taxi.
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?
how is the engine design from subaru these days? my dad used to own a 09 forester and both head gaskets went just after the warranty expired and it was a costly repair. my uncle's 2015 suffered from piston slap... has any of this been fixed?
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.
Reading the reviews the Forester wins. I agree...
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.
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!
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.
Forester for me!
Thanks for the review.
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!
Wich one is noisier inside, engine noise ? Thank you .
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.
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.
Why do you constantly refer to the rav4 by trim name and the Forester without trim name?
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.😊
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.
Yes, nice conceit to switch back and forth, each person driving both and responding to the differences, nicely done, appreciate the review.
I love my 2004 Bluebaru Forester, she still waiting for me every morning on the driveway.
Great review. Thank you so much for the efforts !
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.
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.
wow I love how you guys compared two car at the same time please keep it up!
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
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.
Just bought a RAV4 hybrid and was told that it is reverse compatible for when they add Android Auto to the 2020 model. 2018 and earlier will not.
So you add the eye sight to the Sub and it costs more similar to the 4. Which one then? Why does Toy need 3 different names in US, CAN and AUS?
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.
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.
You left out the best part of this comparison, mud,snow, ice,rough terrain etc.... Subaru rules.
What is better for snow?
Subaru
Accents are funny- there is a lot of subtlety. This review seems like the link to provide for what a perfect Canadian accent sounds like. Great review! :)
You are right, the Canadian accent is perfect!
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
Which one has more Cargo area? That’s where I go. For me, it’s the Forester.
Which one is more reliable?
Will the CVT out last the traditional transmission on the RAV?
Hahah nope
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
Great comparison guys! You are a great couple. More face to face comparisons please!!!
Where did you guys test drive these? Looks like a beautiful area.
Vancouver
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?
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.
Nice review. However, as they are both family orientated vehicles, it would have been nice to see the differences in the back seat area for the kids. And being that they are off-road SUVs, how does the RAV-4's 4wd compare to the legendary Subaru AWD system?
Team Angland I just traded a 2015 forester had a flawless 93000 miles and got 13000 for it. I thought the back seats were great on it but in my new 2019 forester they are superior. I never took my 2015 off road but there was never a problem in snow, rain or bad roads they do say it has the best AWD in the industry.
@@manuelgarcia3348 Cheers Manuel. I've seen some other reviews on the new RAV, and it's 4wd is nothing like the Subaru's system. I just don't see the point of comparing anything to the Forester without mentioning how it's 4wd system compares.
I currently own a 2015 Forester with 6 speed manual. I currently have 262K miles. Sadly the 2019 has no manual transmission option and I'd need to deal with a CVT.
These two vehicles are exactly the two I will have to decide between, right down to the colors. I can't even consider the other trims of RAV4 because I HATE the other front-end.
The only thing I'm worried about with the Forester is the CVT. The RAV4 has an automatic and Toyota is known for reliability in their transmissions.
I need the transmission to go 250,000 miles or more without failure. Can a Subaru CVT go 250K miles with proper maintenance?
In the end, I really like the Forester better in styling over even the RAV4 Adventure trim. I can get the Forester Sport with the options I want for about $2,200 less than the RAV4 I want. But will the Subaru CVT last?
With all your driving your warranty will be up in 2 yrs
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 Love Forrester
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....
where was the location film? Reminds me of Vancouver but with Ontario plates!
It was filmed in Vancouver with Ontario plates
Which one was quieter on the highway?
Correction!!! You don't have to buy the eyesight package on the Forester. It comes included and standard on all trims and models.
Great video guys. Debating on the Forester, would never buy a product without Android Auto, so there is no comparison there. But your vid showed a great break down of the Subaru. Thx.
I love my sport!
Jarrett. You would never buy a product without Android Auto. Funny how millennials look at cars. I could care less about the stupid phone. Toyota wins hands down. that CVT on the Subaru is gonna crap out on you before 100k. Ask Scotty about Subarus CVT.
Your assumption that I'm millennial is comical. My reasons for Android Auto are my own, and for you to criticize someones choice is small minded at best. CVT are not ideal, and although the Forester is on my short list the CVT is a strike, but the lack of Android Auto is an automatic removal.
My apologies for assuming you were a millennial. Just funny how priorities have changed in choosing a new vehicle.
I laugh everytime I hear someone say they wont buy a vehicle because they cant use their phone
I am concerned about CVT in general, do you think traditional automatic would have the advantage for long term reliability? like if you drive the car to beyond 200K?
Really depends on what you do to the car and how you maintain it. I have friends who own Foresters with CVTs and they havent had a problem with the car so far. They keep them stock of course but they do take them offroad in the week. Especially for the 2019 Forester i think you wont have any problems with it too. Remember, its not a rock crawler.
Hi, what the area is outside?
Got Forester Sport and never looked back
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.
What’s the deal with panoramic roof, Never found it needed.
Good review!
P.s. video made in Vancouver, Canada. A nice choice for shooting video.
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!
Good job! you should do similar video with kia stinger and genesis g70
Forester. Owned a 2017 Forester XT, now an 2018 WRX. Seriously thinking about going back to a Forester.
Why is neither using their rear wiper?
On the Subaru transmission, can you program the shifting so that it drives without those FAKE shift points? I would much prefer a smooth running CVT.
Or at least give a setting option in the software. I drive in the mountains and actually prefer CVTs to AT.
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.
Am considering a 2019 Forester but I read that they have electronic issues.
No pre-collision or other safety test?
Insurance companies do not lower premiums for the safety tech...because it doesnt work well enough.
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....
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.
Good format for a video, please add Crv
A good overall intro review of two iconic brands - It looks like you’re in Vancouver? I remember my trip from Australia to a constantly wet Vancouver Island so I was wondering why you did not touch on the comparative AWD systems - I’ve owned nine Subarus but stopped when the flawed CVT design was introduced in 2013. I now drive a Toyota Hilux with conventional auto - John in South Australia.