The compact SUV segment is bustling with options, but the 2025 Subaru Forester stands tall among its peers. With a blend of performance, safety, and comfort, it’s redefining what you can expect from a compact SUV.
The 2025 Subaru Forester’s Place in the Competitive SUV Market
The 2025 Subaru Forester stands out in the crowded compact SUV market, offering a unique blend of reliability and versatility. As we compare the Forester to its competitors, you’ll find it consistently proves to be a top choice. Its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD), advanced safety features, and spacious interior distinguish it from alternatives such as the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, and Nissan Rogue.
Detailed Comparison Across Key Areas
When evaluating the 2025 Subaru Forester against its competitors, several key areas highlight its strengths.
Design and Comfort
The Forester’s expansive cabin has up to 110.8 cubic feet of passenger volume. This generous space surpasses many competitors, providing ample room for front and rear passengers. Front-seat occupants enjoy 43.3 inches of legroom, ensuring comfort even on long journeys. Rear passengers aren’t left out, with 39.4 inches of legroom and 39.6 inches of headroom.
Premium materials and thoughtful design elements enhance your overall experience. The available panoramic power moonroof floods the interior with natural light, creating an open, airy atmosphere. Features such as the power rear gate add convenience to your daily routines, making loading and unloading effortless.
Performance and Efficiency
Under the hood, the Forester houses a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder engine, delivering 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. This engine configuration contributes to a lower center of gravity, enhancing stability and handling. The standard Symmetrical AWD system ensures optimal traction in various conditions, from slick city streets to rugged backroads. Fuel efficiency is a strong suit for the Forester, achieving up to 33 mpg on the highway and 26 mpg in the city for most trims.
Safety and Technology Features
Safety is a cornerstone of the Forester’s design. The updated EyeSight driver-assist technology provides features such as automatic emergency steering, precollision braking, and adaptive cruise control with lane centering to enhance your awareness and reduce risks. The available DriverFocus distraction mitigation system further sets the Forester apart by monitoring for signs of fatigue or distraction, offering timely alerts that prioritize safety — a clear advantage when comparing the Subaru Forester to competitors.
On the technology front, the Forester doesn’t disappoint. The SUBARU STARLINK 11.6-inch multimedia system offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to stay connected without the clutter of cables. The available Harman Kardon premium audio system elevates your listening experience, making every drive enjoyable.
Price Points and Value Proposition
Affordability without compromise is a cornerstone of the Forester’s appeal. With a starting MSRP of $29,695, it offers exceptional value in the compact SUV segment. Standard features, including AWD, advanced safety systems, and a spacious interior, provide a package that’s hard to match.
In-Depth Vehicle Comparisons
The 2025 Subaru Forester excels compared to its rivals, offering distinct performance, space, and safety advantages. Here’s how it compares to the top contenders in the compact SUV segment.
2025 Subaru Forester vs. 2024/2025 Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 is a popular choice, but see how it stacks up against the Forester:
- Passenger space: The Forester’s 110.8 cubic feet of passenger volume surpasses the RAV4’s 98.9 cubic feet.
- Cargo capacity: With seats folded, the Forester provides 74.4 cubic feet of cargo space, edging out the RAV4’s 69.8 cubic feet.
- Ground clearance: The Forester’s 8.7 inches of ground clearance beats the RAV4’s standard 8.4 inches, enhancing off-road capability.
While the RAV4 is a solid vehicle, the Forester’s emphasis on space, safety, and value gives it a competitive edge.
2025 Subaru Forester vs. 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is known for its rugged appeal, but consider these points:
- Affordability: The Forester’s $29,695 starting MSRP is significantly less than the Grand Cherokee’s $36,494 base price.
- Fuel efficiency: The Forester’s 33 mpg highway fuel rating outperforms the Grand Cherokee’s 26 mpg.
- Maneuverability: A smaller turning diameter makes the Forester easier to handle in tight spaces.
- Weight: The Forester’s lighter curb weight provides superior efficiency and handling.
The Forester presents a compelling option if you’re seeking capability without the hefty price tag.
2025 Subaru Forester vs. 2025 Honda Passport
Comparing the Forester to the Honda Passport reveals the following:
- Price difference: The Forester’s base price is over $12,000 cheaper than the Passport’s starting MSRP.
- Fuel economy: Better miles-per-gallon ratings make the Forester more economical.
- Size and weight: The Forester’s lighter weight and smaller dimensions enhance maneuverability.
While the Passport has its merits, the Forester’s combination of affordability, efficiency, and features is hard to overlook.
Extended Comparisons With Other Key Competitors
In key areas, the 2025 Subaru Forester outshines other compact SUVs, such as the Mazda CX-5, Ford Escape, and Nissan Rogue.
Mazda CX-5
While the Mazda CX-5 is known for its sleek design, the Subaru Forester excels in practicality. The Forester’s 74.4 cubic feet of cargo space surpasses the CX-5’s 58.1 cubic feet, and its 110.8 cubic feet of passenger volume bests the CX-5’s 103.6 cubic feet. Additionally, all Forester trims come with standard AWD, enhancing safety and performance.
Ford Escape
The Ford Escape delivers versatility, but the Forester leads in key areas. Standard all-wheel drive on every Forester trim provides greater control, while the Forester’s larger passenger and cargo space creates a more comfortable experience. Advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control, standard on the Forester, are optional on the Escape.
Nissan Rogue
The Nissan Rogue is a strong contender, yet the Forester holds clear advantages. Standard all-wheel drive in the Forester outshines the Rogue’s optional system, while the Forester offers more legroom, shoulder room, and passenger volume for greater comfort. A larger fuel tank in the Forester allows you to travel longer between fill-ups.
Making the Best Choice for Your Needs
When considering the 2025 Subaru Forester vs. the competition, it’s clear that the Forester holds significant advantages. If you’re ready to experience the Forester for yourself in Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania, explore our John Kennedy Subaru dealership’s new Forester inventory. The purchasing process is seamless, and our finance application will help you get behind the wheel of a new Forester in no time. If you have questions or want to schedule a test-drive, contact us today.
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