Forester vs. RAV4 vs. CR-V
2026 Subaru Forester vs. Toyota RAV4 vs. Honda CR-V
Compact SUV ComparisonThe Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V are three of the most-shopped compact SUVs in America. Here is how the gas and hybrid versions line up on price, power, efficiency and all-wheel drive, so you can decide which fits your daily drive around Memphis, Germantown and Collierville.
Side-by-Side Specs
| Spec | Subaru Forester / Forester Hybrid | Toyota RAV4 (Hybrid) | Honda CR-V / CR-V Hybrid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP (excl. destination) | $29,995 / $34,730 | $31,900 (FWD) · $33,300 (AWD) | $30,920 (FWD) · $32,420 (AWD) |
| Powertrain | 2.5L Boxer 4-cyl / 2.5L hybrid | 2.5L hybrid (hybrid-only for 2026) | 1.5L turbo 4-cyl / 2.0L hybrid |
| Horsepower | 180 hp / 194 hp | 226 hp (FWD) · 236 hp (AWD) | 190 hp / 204 hp |
| EPA MPG (city/hwy/comb) | 26/33/29 · Hybrid 35/34/35 | Up to 44 combined (FWD, mfr. est.) | AWD 27/31/29 · Hybrid up to 40 comb. |
| All-wheel drive | Standard on every trim | Optional | Optional |
Starting MSRP (excl. destination) shown for base trims. Specs and pricing were current as of November 2026 and may change; see Jim Keras Subaru Hacks Cross for current pricing and availability.
Why drivers choose the Subaru Forester
- Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard on every Forester and Forester Hybrid, with no AWD upcharge.
- The Forester Hybrid pairs 194 hp with an EPA-rated 35 mpg combined and up to a 581-mile range.
- The lowest starting price of the three: $29,995 MSRP for a gas Forester with AWD included.
- EyeSight Driver Assist Technology and a tall, upright greenhouse for outstanding visibility.
When a competitor might fit better
- Choose the RAV4 if top fuel economy is your #1 priority: every 2026 RAV4 is a hybrid.
- Choose the CR-V if you want a roomy cargo hold (39.3 cu ft behind the rear seat) and are fine adding AWD as an option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Subaru Forester all-wheel drive?
Yes. Every 2026 Forester and Forester Hybrid comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. The RAV4 and CR-V start with front-wheel drive, and AWD costs extra.
Which gets better gas mileage, the Forester Hybrid or the RAV4?
The 2026 RAV4 hybrid is rated higher on fuel economy. The Forester Hybrid is EPA-rated at 35 mpg combined with standard AWD and a long total range, at a lower starting price than an AWD RAV4.
Drive the Subaru Forester yourself
See it in person at Jim Keras Subaru Hacks Cross on Hacks Cross Road, serving Memphis, Germantown and Collierville.
Sources: Subaru of America 2026 Forester and Forester Hybrid pricing; Toyota 2026 RAV4 announcement; Honda 2026 CR-V specifications; EPA ratings via Cars.com and KBB. MSRP excludes tax, title, license, options and dealer fees unless noted. EPA estimates for comparison only; actual mileage and range will vary.
