When it comes to compact SUVs, the 2025 Subaru Forester and the 2025 Honda CR-V are two standout contenders, each offering a blend of performance, comfort, and advanced features. As these two vehicles continue to dominate their segment, buyers must weigh their distinct strengths to determine which aligns best with their lifestyle. With both models receiving notable updates, this comparison will highlight key aspects such as performance, fuel economy, technology, and overall value, ensuring you have the insight needed to make the right choice.
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Performance and Engine Specifications
Equipped with a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder engine, the 2025 Subaru Forester delivers 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, providing a well-balanced mix of power and efficiency. As Subaru’s engineering philosophy places a strong emphasis on stability, the BOXER engine, with its horizontally opposed design, plays a significant role in achieving that. Combined with its Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), the Forester optimizes fuel efficiency without compromising acceleration, making it an excellent choice for those who want a mix of capability and economy.
Producing 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque, the 2025 Honda CR-V boasts a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four-cylinder engine. While the additional horsepower may seem like an advantage, turbocharged engines often experience turbo lag, a brief hesitation before delivering full power. This could be noticeable in situations that require quick acceleration, such as highway merging or passing. Engine tuning prioritizes efficiency and everyday usability, but it lacks the instant throttle response and predictability of the Forester’s naturally aspirated powertrain.
Fuel Efficiency
The 2025 Subaru Forester achieves an EPA-estimated of 26 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway, offering an impressive balance of performance and efficiency. Fuel economy is a significant factor for many compact SUV buyers. As Subaru’s commitment to engineering fuel-conscious vehicles ensures that drivers get the most out of every gallon, without sacrificing the capability of its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Efficiency is further enhanced by Auto Start-Stop Technology, which reduces fuel consumption by shutting off the engine when idling at stoplights or in traffic, seamlessly restarting when needed. Unlike many competitors that require front-wheel drive for optimal fuel efficiency, this vehicle delivers these numbers while maintaining full-time AWD, making it an ideal choice for those who frequently drive in inclement weather or venture off the unpaved path.
As the 2025 Honda CR-V, with its turbocharged engine, offers 28 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway. The turbocharged powertrain may also require premium fuel in certain conditions to maintain peak performance, potentially increasing long-term operating costs. When considering fuel efficiency, it’s essential to consider how often the AWD will be needed, and whether the slight advantage in MPG is worth compromising on Subaru’s standard year-round capability.
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Interior Comfort and Space
While the Subaru Forester offers generous interior dimensions, including up to 41.2 inches of front headroom. Premium materials are used throughout, and available upgrades include a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front and rear seats, and a panoramic moonroof that enhances the feeling of spaciousness. As both SUVs excel in providing comfort and ample room for passengers and cargo. With thoughtfully designed cabins, this vehicle prioritizes visibility and openness, offering a commanding driving position and large windows. Cargo capacity measures 29.6 cubic feet behind the second row and expands to 74.4 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down, making it an ideal vehicle for road trips or outdoor adventures.
The Honda CR-V features slightly less front passenger headroom at 40 inches, but provides rear legroom at 41 inches, enhancing rear passenger comfort. The seating is supportive, with available leather-trimmed options and ventilated front seats for added luxury. While the CR-V offers a sleek, modern cabin design, the sloping roofline slightly reduces rear headroom compared to the Forester. Cargo space stands at 39.3 cubic feet behind the second row and expands to 76.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, making it one of the most spacious options in the compact SUV segment. As both SUVs offer practical and comfortable interiors, the Forester’s upright design and expansive window layout provide an airier feel, while the CR-V focuses on a more enclosed, refined atmosphere suited for urban commuters.
Safety Features
The 2025 Subaru Forester comes standard with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes Pre-Collision Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Keep Assist. Safety is paramount for both Subaru and Honda, with each brand offering advanced driver-assist technologies. Additionally, the DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System is available, using facial recognition technology to detect driver fatigue or inattention, a feature that is particularly useful for those who take long road trips or commute in heavy traffic. In higher trims, drivers benefit from a 360-degree surround-view monitor, which provides a complete visual of the vehicle’s surroundings, making tight parking and off-road maneuvering easier.
While these features closely mirror Subaru’s offerings, the CR-V does not include the equivalent features compared to Subaru’s DriverFocus technology, nor does it offer a surround-view monitor. Instead, Honda includes Traffic Sign Recognition and a Blind Spot Information System, useful for highway driving and city commuting. Though both SUVs offer strong safety packages, the Forester’s standard all-wheel drive, superior visibility, and additional safety enhancements make it a strong contender for drivers who prioritize security and advanced driver assist features.
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Conclusion
Choosing between the 2025 Subaru Forester and the 2025 Honda CR-V depends on your priorities and lifestyle. The Forester stands out with its standard AWD, advanced safety features, and spacious front passenger area, making it an excellent choice for those who often face adverse weather or rough terrain. Meanwhile, the CR-V offers slightly better fuel efficiency, increased cargo space, and a more powerful turbocharged engine, appealing to those who value performance and modern design.
Imagine loading up for a weekend getaway, effortlessly fitting all your gear while enjoying the comfort of heated seats and advanced technology. Subaru’s legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive provides confidence in every turn, ensuring that each drive is as safe as it is smooth. Now is the perfect time to take the next step. Come to Ganley Subaru East today to schedule a test drive, and see for yourself the exceptional performance, safety, and versatility of the Forester for your daily and future journeys.
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