Comparing the 2019 Subaru Forester Sport w/ the 2019 Toyota RAV4 Adventure

For any outdoor enthusiasts or even simple fans of cars capable enough to handle the Columbus backroads, the Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4 are sure to have come up in a conversation or two. Maybe you have already started browsing one or both of these models. While these both tend to land at the top of the list for many drivers, it may be difficult to understand the differences and choose the right fit for your active lifestyle. At Byers Imports, we are happy to give you a breakdown of each of these models including performance, space, technology, off-road capability, driving experience, and price. Take an in-depth look at each option, and make sure to weigh the pros and cons of each before heading into the dealership for a test drive.

Overview of the New Subaru Forester Sport

The Subaru Forester has been a longtime favorite in the compact SUV category. The newest model is available in a Sport trim with standard all-wheel drive and enhanced off-road capabilities, as well as the other features drivers love about the past Forester models. The Sport includes unique orange exterior accents and badging, an All-Weather Package, and the SI-DRIVE® engine management system.

Overview of the New Toyota RAV4 Adventure

The 2019 Toyota RAV4 Adventure trim is also an outdoor-focused compact SUV. The newer version is more geared towards outdoor-focused drivers than previous configurations have been. The RAV4 remains a popular choice in its class thanks to a comfortable ride, abundant space, driver-friendly controls, and a robust AWD upgrade.

Comparing Performance – Available Engines & Output

When it comes to performance, each sport utility vehicle has something to offer. The 2019 RAV4 offers a 2.5-liter inline-four engine with 203 horsepower, and the 2019 Forester offers a new, more powerful 2.5-liter flat-four engine that produces 182 horsepower. Despite the slight drop in horsepower, the Forester feels quicker thanks to a sharp throttle response and the ability to use the Sport Sharp mode. While both vehicles are plenty capable for off-road adventures, drivers have complained about some of the gruff noises from the RAV4’s engine.

Comparing Fuel Economy – Save More at the Pump on Long Trips

Good fuel economy is extremely important when choosing a compact SUV for daily driving or weekend adventures. Thankfully, both the Forester and RAV4 offer exceptional efficiency among others in their class with the RAV4 Adventure offering 28 mpg combined and the Forester Sport returning 29 mpg combined.

Comparing the Driving Experience – Choose Smoother Driving on Rough Terrain

Where the Forester and RAV4 really differ is the driving experience. The new RAV4 can be slightly confining with a low roof and a higher center console although it does feel a bit sportier than it has in the past. The new Forester stands out with exceptional visibility thanks to high-seating with a broad view. This can be extremely helpful when it comes to parking, general safety, or off-road driving. The Forester also handles well maneuvering tight corners and quick turns thanks to a lofty ground clearance of 8.7 inches. The RAV4 Adventure adds more ground clearance as well(8.6 inches), but does tend to lean a bit more on quick turns. Both options provide greater assurance and capability off-road than other options in their genre thanks to more sophisticated all-wheel drive systems and off-road driving modes.

Comparing Space – Make Sure You Have Enough Cargo Space for Your Gear!

The RAV4’s recent radical transformation actually hurts it when it comes to space as it offers less headroom than before and a smaller cargo area. The Forester can be described as boxy and functional with taller body height and amplified legroom, a major advantage over the RAV4 for taller drivers. Many people have expressed that the Forester generally feels more open and spacious.

Those with four-legged friends may also find the Forester to be better suited to their needs as the RAV4’s sloped tailgate and the small rear quarter window is just not as accommodating. The Toyota does conveniently offer under-floor storage for the cargo cover and two-sided cargo floor. Both models offer robust roof rails for carrying gear.

Comparing Features and Technology for Safety, Convenience, & Smartphone Integration

The comparison shouldn’t stop at capability and performance as technology and smartphone integration can be extremely helpful and important for an adventure-ready vehicle. The Forester Sport comes standard with an easy-to-use touchscreen and the Sport offers the chance to upgrade to a high-resolution 8-inch version. The RAV4 offers a standard 7-inch touchscreen within easy reach that can also be updated to an 8-inch option. The Forester and RAV4 both offer Apple CarPlay, but only the Forester comes with Android Auto, so Android users may be more inclined to choose the Forester.

When it comes to safety technology, both vehicles come standard with an ample amount of technology including forward collision warning with pedestrian detection and automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.

Pricing Comparisons & Final Outcome – The 2019 Forester Sport Comes Out on Top

While the 2019 Subaru Forester Sport and the 2019 Toyota RAV4 both perform well in many important categories, the Subaru ultimately comes out on top thanks to better interior space and visibility. Drivers also won’t have to upgrade too much to achieve maximum outdoor capabilities as they would with the RAV4. The Forester also offers a better value than the RAV4 adventure, coming in at a couple of thousand dollars less and offering consumers more for their money.

Head to Our Subaru Dealership in Columbus to Grab Yours!

If you are interested in finding a 2019 Forester Sport in the Columbus area, head to our Subaru dealership today! We offer an extensive inventory of the new Forester in various trims and colors to suit your preferences. We also have a large selection of used Forester models as well as other popular choices like the Impreza, Outback, WRX, Legacy, and Ascent. We look forward to helping you find your perfect automotive match at the right price!