Battle of the 2024 SUVs: Subaru Forester vs. Toyota RAV4

When it comes to popular SUV models, consumers in the United States often compare the Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Forester. While the Forester is known for its unbeatable safety features, this comparison will examine both vehicles in detail to determine which one is the 

better choice.

A Detailed Comparison

The compact crossover SUV market is highly competitive, with many models vying for attention. Two of the most popular options in this category are the Subaru Forester and the Toyota RAV4. While both vehicles offer impressive all-terrain capabilities, the Forester stands out for its long-standing reputation for safety and AWD capability. 

Subaru has always prioritized safety, and the Forester is a testament to this commitment. Equipped with the proprietary Subaru EyeSight driver-assist system, this SUV boasts an impressive array of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and electronic safety technology. The EyeSight system has been improved for the 2023 model year, offering an expanded field of view and updated software for enhanced functionality. 

One of the Forester’s most unique features is automatic emergency steering, which intervenes when the system detects a potential collision, providing automatic steering control to avert accidents at speeds below 50 mph. The EyeSight system also includes blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assistance, and rear cross-traffic warning, features that are optional on many competitors’ models.

The Forester’s AWD system is designed to handle diverse terrain and enhance on-road performance, especially in challenging weather conditions. The Wilderness trim, dedicated to off-road driving, offers rugged enhancements like a revised suspension, increased ground clearance, and specialized tires for off-road adventures. 

On the other hand, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 offers front-wheel drive (FWD) or AWD options, with the Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims focusing exclusively on AWD. The RAV4 Hybrid offers only AWD, with LE, XLE, XLE Premium, SE, XSE, Limited, and Woodland Edition trims. The RAV4 Prime, a plug-in hybrid, offers SE and XSE trims with AWD. 

While the RAV4 offers several trims and powertrain options, it falls short in terms of safety features compared to the Forester. The RAV4’s standard safety features are limited, and many advanced safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning, are only available on higher trims or optional packages. 

In terms of pricing, the Forester is an affordable option in its class, with the base model starting at $28,440, including the $1,345 destination charge. Meanwhile, the RAV4’s starting prices are higher, with the LE trim starting at $30,025 (plus destination fee) with FWD and $31,425 (plus destination fee) with AWD. The top-tier conventional RAV4 Limited with AWD starts at $39,730 (plus destination fee), while the hybrid RAV4 Limited starts at $41,380 (plus destination fee). 

Safety ratings also favor the Forester, with the 2024 model earning a 5-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for the 2023 calendar year. Meanwhile, the RAV4 has received a 5-star safety rating from the NHTSA but hasn’t been evaluated by the IIHS for the 2024 model year yet.

Southern Team Subaru

The 2024 Subaru Forester is an excellent option for drivers who are looking for a compact crossover SUV that emphasizes safety and all-terrain capabilities. Its EyeSight driver-assist system and AWD capabilities make it stand out from the competition, and its different trims cater to a variety of driving needs. Although the Toyota RAV4 offers multiple trims and powertrain options, it lacks safety features and pricing compared to the Forester. We invite you to visit Southern Team Subaru to see the Subaru Forester in person.