2022 Subaru Forester vs Honda CR-V

The Subaru Forester and Honda CR-V are two capable crossovers that boast modern safety and technology features while remaining practical in terms of price. While they have many similarities, each vehicle also has its unique differences which are detailed below.

The Powertrain

The engine on the Forester has a displacement of 2.5 liters. It's a four-cylinder version that can make 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. Subaru has paired it with a Lineartronic continually variable transmission. On select trims, there's a manual mode that drivers can choose to take advantage of, if they wish. There would either be seven or eight speeds with manual mode, depending on the exact trim.

With its standard all-wheel drive, the 2022 Forester offers a reliable ride that easily handles whatever comes your way. From light towing of up to 1,500 pounds for most trims to an impressive 3,000 pound limit with their new Wilderness trim released in 2022 - it's clear this car is ready for adventure.

The Honda CR-V packs a serious punch with its 1.5-liter turbo engine, delivering an impressive 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque that obliterates the competition! Feel your heart race as you experience unbeatable driving performance in this powerful machine - it's sure to take your breath away.

Experience smooth and powerful performance with this engine's continuously variable transmission, featuring a Sport mode for an extra thrill. Tackle tough tasks easily by opting for the available all-wheel drive capability - perfecting for towing up to 1,500 pounds! The 2022 Forester can do it too; but why not go beyond?

The Honda CR-V Hybrid is a great pick for eco-friendly drivers, offering an impressive 40 miles per gallon in the city and 35 on the highway. For those who don't opt for hybrid technology but still want to maintain excellent fuel efficiency, there's plenty of options too! Front wheel drive models can achieve up to 28 MPG city/34 MPG highway - all while sacrificing very little savings when compared with their hybrid counterparts. With AWD onboard, you'll see only a slight decrease in gas mileage; making it easy as ever to stay green without breaking the bank at pump lineups.

The Subaru Forester provides a practical option for those looking to save on fuel costs without sacrificing performance. Its competitive gas mileage of 26/33 mpg in city and highway driving respectively puts it nearly equal with the Honda CR-V's AWD variant, while its Wilderness trim offers an impressive 25/28mpg across all surfaces.

The Forester Wilderness is the clear king of off-roading, with an impressive 9.2 inches of ground clearance and extra features like a front skid plate and redesigned bumpers for navigating challenging terrain. Not to be outdone by its siblings, other Foresters also have increased clearance at 8.7 inches while CRVs provide between 7.8 - 8.2 inch options depending on drivetrain selection.

Those looking for an adventure on the wild side need look no further than the Forester Wilderness. This trim comes power-packed with X-MODE, providing drivers extreme grip and traction over even the most treacherous terrain. The dual function program offers snow, dirt, deep snow or mud settings to suit any situation - plus re-tuned gearing that makes it perfect for conquering steep hills and hauling loads heavy enough for a yuletide sleigh ride! Trailblazers rejoice; this is your vehicle of choice.

Drivability

Enjoy a pleasurable driving experience with two great options. The Forester particularly stands out in this regard, offering superior traction control and active torque vectoring for even the most challenging terrains - such as its much-celebrated Hill Descent Control feature which ensures controlled descent speeds on steep slopes.

The 2022 CR-V offers hill start assist to prevent the SUV from rolling backward when switching from the brake to gas pedal on an incline. However, it lacks hill descent control. Another feature available on the CR-V is active noise cancellation, which helps reduce exterior and engine noise in the cabin.

The Honda CR-V Hybrid is designed to truly fit any type of driving preference with its three distinct drive modes. With the ECON setting, drivers can maximize fuel economy and take advantage of an eco-friendly ride; Sport mode puts a boost on performance for those craving more power; while EV mode offers an all electric experience for moments when silence matters most.

Driving an SUV can be a superior experience with elevated views and improved visibility, both the Forester and CR-V offer these features in spades. Their distinct shapes give those behind the wheel increased situational awareness to ensure they're confidently navigating whatever roads lie ahead.

The CR-V offers a slight advantage in the second row legroom, providing more space for taller passengers. Although both SUVs offer generous interior space; there is a small discrepancy between cargo capacity on different trims, with traditional Forester and hybrid CR-V models offering 69.1 and 68.7 cubic feet respectively - while higher trim levels provide up to 75.8 cubic feet of storage potential in the latter vehicle.

With both the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester, you don't have to worry about packing light even when all seats are occupied. On one end of the spectrum lies a generous 39.2 cubic feet in non-hybrids or 33.2 for hybrids - perfect for weekend getaways with family and friends! And if that's not enough room, entry model trims still come equipped with 28.9 cu ft while other models offer 26.9 cu ft so there should be no shortage of space on your trips out.

A Look at Technology

Enjoy effortless connectivity with the Subaru Forester, offering a wide range of standard features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Bluetooth on your choice of 6.5 or 8-inch touchscreen infotainment systems. Upgrade to higher trim levels for optional navigation systems and enhanced sound options from 4 speakers up to an impressive 6 – plus Wi-Fi is already preloaded in all models excluding the base variant! Be connected no matter where life takes you.

The Honda CR-V offers an array of features to suit any lifestyle. Whether it's Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, or Android Auto for your tech needs; SiriusXM radio for music lovers; a premium audio system and wireless phone charging for audiophiles--the possibilities are endless! And if all that wasn't enough, higher trim levels also boast impressive additions such as a hands-free power tailgate just waiting to take you on adventure after adventure.

Enjoy your music with crystal clear audio, thanks to the Honda CR-V's top trim and its nine-speaker sound system. The other trims offer six speakers of high quality entertainment - except for the base model which is fitted with a more modest four speaker setup. And you'll find convenience in wireless charging and USB port access on most models; dual front & rear ports are available, albeit just one single port being supplied on entry level versions.

Forester's cabin offers convenient access to USB ports, starting with two in the front row and 2 more as standard on all trims except the base model. While CR-V goes a step further by offering wireless charging capability, drivers of any Forester trim can look forward to powering up their portable devices quickly and easily right from inside their vehicle.

Safety

With the Forester and CR-V, drivers can enjoy a newfound peace of mind thanks to their advanced driver assistance technologies. These features detect hazardous road conditions and alert drivers before intervention becomes necessary - enabling them to proactively avoid collisions for greater safety on the go.

The Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester boast sophisticated safety features to help drivers avoid hazardous situations on the road. Both vehicles come equipped with forward collision warning, pre-collision throttle management, and lane departure warnings that actively monitor surrounding conditions while simultaneously providing assistance in maintaining a safe driving distance from cars ahead. Adaptive cruise control further ensures the driver remains centered within lanes - a crucial foundation for sound navigation of busy highways or winding roads alike.

Drivers seeking improved safety features will be delighted by the advanced Blind-spot monitoring and Rear Cross-traffic alert offered in higher trim levels of these two vehicles. To add an extra layer of security, only the Forester offers Reverse Automatic Braking to help avoid collisions when reversing. For navigating narrow trails or tricky parking spaces, its Wilderness trim provides a robust 180 degree Front View Monitor for enhanced visibility.

Which Has the Best Value?

Forester's base trim is not only $1,000 less pricey than that of CR-V but it also features a standard all-wheel drive and superior technology.

Both the CR-V and Forester offer a luxurious driving experience for those looking to ascend into SUV's highest rank. The Forester Limited is an alluring package with its perfect combination of sophisticated features, ruggedness, and affordability. But adventurous drivers can up the ante even further by opting for the Wilderness trim - loaded with outdoor amenities at an equally attractive price point.

For those looking to reap the rewards of Honda's cutting-edge technology, and have access to a wealth of luxurious amenities, their top pick will likely be the CR-V Touring. Starting at $36,600 it may come with a premium price tag; but its advanced features make this model an exceptional value proposition -- proof that big things really do come in small packages.

The Forester Wilderness and Limited offer an abundance of luxurious features for a remarkable driving experience. From the front-view monitor to anti-glare hood finish and reinforced roof rails on the Wilderness, to plush leather seats and convenient power rear gate with the Limited - you can trust these trims will not disappoint. Both cars also boast panoramic power sunroofs as well as heated front seats!
The Honda CR-V EX-L and Touring trims offer a luxurious experience that goes above and beyond the Forester Limited. With features such as power moonroofs, leather seats, heated front seats, handsfree access on the Touring trim--not to mention wireless charging capabilities for ultimate convenience along with a delightful heated steering wheel for extra warmth - you'll be cruising in sophistication.

Which is Better?

A showdown between two of the most impressive SUVs on the market is always an exciting prospect. Whether your priorities are practicality or luxury, both vehicles have incredible features and technology carefully crafted to make them ideal options.

Honda's CR-V combines sophisticated luxury and utility, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to make a statement - without breaking the bank. With its hybrid powertrain option appealing to budget AND environmentally conscious shoppers alike, plus added legroom in the backseat bringing increased comfort levels – this premium model is certainly worth considering.

As an SUV with all-wheel drive, the Subaru Forester provides drivers a smooth and secure ride on any terrain. Those looking for more oomph can opt for its Wilderness trim model to enjoy an even more athletic driving experience. Beyond performance, the Forester's entry level model also offers a higher tech infotainment system complete with extra USB ports - ideal for those desiring advanced connectivity features in their vehicle of choice.