I bought my first Subaru ever after years of owning Toyotas. The biggest difference is the Forester fits my 6'3" frame better, and the AWD is first rate. However it's the dealership experience that makes the noticable difference. Subaru treats me like a Lexus dealership.

Absolutely amazing reviews! I’m impressed that someone actually took the time to critique the paint thickness and gap continuity. Keep up the good work

One of the best car reports hands down. I have never seen anyone verify the paint, and gaps before. Great interior review. The Subaru Forester is definitely a great, practical vehicle with hybrid numbers on the highway. The RAV4 EV is a great vehicle as well. There is a long waiting list to get one. Most go to British Colombia and Quebec that have numerous charging stations on street's, public parking, business, rest area's for EV's.

I'm a bit of an analytical person, and this is exactly the kind of car reviewing I've always been hoping to find - keep it up!

I just found your videos, and I am overwhelmed for the amount of great content you give, thank you so much for sharing!!

Thank you for doing this review, one of the best I've seen. I hope you will compare the Forester hybrid with the Rav 4 models when it is available (as it is rumoured to be). I have a 1999 Forester, and it's still going strong , with the odd age related part replacement needed - your description of "an old friend" is absolutely spot on. The only thing I don't love is the fuel economy. It is going to be hard to part with. (I have been waiting for a hybrid to appear.) I would also really appreciate an episode on regular vs hybrid vs plug in and how you know which are really suitable for you. I have heard, for example, hybrids must be driven a certain amount per year and have extra filters that need changing where the batteries are vented. Just because a new technology exists, doesn't mean it is the correct fit for everyone. Many thanks for your kind attention.

Thank you. This was a most useful review and comparison of these two vehicles.

To add to the meaning of the Subaru badge, it actually means collection/collaboration and it’s the Japanese name for the Pleiades cluster or the Seven Sisters, however the reason for only 6 stars is because six companies amalgamated to form Subaru. Thank you I’m here all week.

Thanks for a thorough review! Would be great if your reviews can get more technical into the engine design!

At 75,000 miles my 2016 Subaru Forester started to leak oil. Engine had to be pulled out and re-sealed. This will be my last Subaru. My wife’s RAV4 has 115,000 miles and never had an issue.

Either car is a superb choice. Both cars have great resale too. We purchased a 2007 Forester here in Australia for a staff member rather than a RAV4. He's delighted. Great cars.

Excellent job. This is an engineer talking, all the right points are covered. You are the best!

We owns a RAV4 hybrid and 2 Subarus Ascent & Crosstrek Sport. We love all of them. Toyota gives 45+ miles per gallon (amazing) Crosstrek drive much better than any other small SUV. I agree 100%. The Subaru handling is second to non. Plus the seats comfort.

I'd like to point out that the Rav4 apples to apples is quit a bit more expensive. I would be more interested to see a rav4 non hybrid or no Prime compared to the Subaru Forester. Since the Prime and hybrid have an unfair advantage we should be comparing the two non-hybrid models. I may be a little bias now but I just picked up a full load limited Subaru forester yesterday after nearly buying a Rav4 Hybrid. I do a lot of highway driving and that made the hybrid only 4 mpg better on the highway and what tipped me was the overall value and the safety difference was huge when shopping for insurance. In my case the Subaru Forester was $105 per month less to insure than the Rav4 hybrid and I have a perfect driving record and am a professional driver for work. All that said I was able to get a full load Limited Subaru Forester for about the same price as the Toyota Rav4 Hybrid base model with the $815 weather package. One notable thing to know is that only the Rav4 Prime is made in Japan and the rest of the Rav4s are made in the USA (Kentucky I believe) and the Subaru is made in Japan. This could make a substantial difference in quality. This Subaru forester is insane with tech and safety features. It really did blow my mind. There is far too much to list so if you are interested, I would encourage you to watch a video on it. In the end, the Subaru Forester is a better value from what I experienced. Hope this helps with your decision.

Amazing video! Thanks for the good work!

Great Video David! Very helpful!

Great fair comparison ,both great SUVs.Our 2016 Rav4 has been very enjoyable & reliable & can see advantages of Rav4 prime plug in hybrid. Wait in Canada for one is over a great so will keep driving our gas Rav4 for awhile. Cheers

Nice review David thanks for sharing this video.👍👍👍

That Forrester is gorgeous, would be my pick, the RAV Prime is too expensive for my pocketbook, but maybe in the cards someday hopefully!...Great Vid!

Thanks so much for this interesting review David. I am surprised with your comments on Subaru, very positive, . I think trying hard to improve there cars.

Super detailed review. Outstanding job!

This is a great review. Thank you

After owning a few Toyotas (RAV, Yaris, Corolla) in the last years I have just moved into Subaru...... Toyota is a very reliable brand but no regret so far with my Forester 2022.... David's review is so precise, I completely agree with it, the subbie is so smooth and pleasant to drive, I really enjoy it!

Very good review. Thanks a lot

I just purchased a SUBIE, made in Japan. I have reviewed it against Rav 4, Skoda Kaoqia, Peugeot 3008. SUBIE is one notch above the rest, Skoda is a close 2nd.

Great review. Would have liked to hear your thoughts about storage capacity

really good information greatly assist me in decision-making process.

Very much enjoyed the video. One thing I am always curious about is how well do environmental controls work in either type of hybrid - A/C and heat.

Very impressive review, you went into great detail. I always check the panel gaps with my finger, and I did notice that the Forester's side cowls were lower giving you a more upright outward view. I drove both the RAV4 and Forester (Wilderness) before buying the SFW. I have had it a month now and completed one 400 mile road trip, so please allow me to make one key observation. The split screen is pure genius. The small upper screen gives you multiple bits of information at a glance. It is like a quick reference guide, giving you only what you need to know. I predict that the rest of the auto industry (including luxury brands) will follow Subaru's lead on this. Now for my owners MPG report. On my trip with a mix of 70 highway 30 city I got 25.3 mpg.

My new Forester Touring model 2022, is so much better than my 2020 Forester Touring. At times it feels the same until you hit the gas. The engine is quieter and the CVT seems to shift better giving the car more speed on the acceleration of the car. I love how they’ve added Black to the current saddle brown Interior, doesn’t look like your sitting in a baseball glove. I had no oil issues or leaks on the 2020.

David I would like to see your 'Comparison' of the Japanese vs Canadian vs American RAV4 build Quality. We recently acquired a 2022 RAV4 Limited Hybrid however, we had to settle for an American Built one. I would of at least like to have received the Canadian build over the American build. However, we waited 6 months for our Hybrid as it is so in many ways we are very grateful. Thank you for taking the time and effort to produce these videos....

Excellent review of two vehicles I'm interested in. I had the 2009, 2 litre diesel subaru legacy for 10 years before the crankshaft sheared on it but the car was bullet proof, fun to drive and very reliable so I know what Subaru are like. I'm waiting for the next one to come out in 2024, I believe it will have a better hybrid than the current 2l petrol/hybrid than we currently have in Ireland. I've read before, that it may have a hybrid as good as Toyotas. I'll be keeping an eye on your review of the new model when it comes out!

What a great review! This reviewer is excellent!

You are amazing with your reviews!

After test driving damn near every vehicle in existance the Prime was an easy choice...if I can get one that is. My only gripe is the head unit which I would swap out for an all touchscreen aftermarket unit that looks better has more features and more power output to speakers. I never liked Toyota but the Ptime made me a fan! Supposedly one is coming this week for me and I only had to wait a month so 🤞

I almost bought the Forrester but the dealer, and resulting service, was about 40 miles away from our house. The Toyota dealer is a mile away so we ended up with the RAV4. No complaints on the purchase.

PS, I don’t want to hear about the cvt. I have driven them for years and never had one issue. Pushed them hard. In fact our new 22’ Forester Sport has improved. Never mind the new front end .. awesome !

Outstanding Engineering Review !!! 👌

Very impressed with the review…thanks

This is a great review. And very informative. I also appreciate the transparency. As a RAV driver, you're still able to look at both vehicles in a fair and unbiased manner. As a long time Toyota driver myself, I agree that you just can't go wrong with the brand. This is why looking at Subaru for the first time has me at once excited, but also a little hesitant. I know if I go with the RAV I will have that bulletproof brand in Toyota. But while the RAV will have that automatic reliability, there are other things it just doesn't provide. For me, at 6'3, the RAV feels too compact. It's too closed in and just doesn't give me the space that the Forester does. I can see your observations on how it the RAV has a little more interior refinement and luxury and the drive is equally solid. But I really like how the Subaru drives too. It handles very well for what I need. You make a good point about the over-the-dash visibility possibly being intruded upon by that second screen in the Subaru. I never thought about that. And a good point. However, when you hopped in the RAV, that is a massive infotainment screen which also juts up and would definitely pull my focus as well. Maybe even more than the Subaru. So the question is do I risk the reliability for comfort? It certainly doesn't sound like buying into a Subaru is going to be an automatic snake pit of one repair after the next based on your review here. The Subaru's CVT engine clearly won't be as well-embraced as the engine in the RAV. Most car reviewers agree on that. But they also say the CVT isn't awful anymore either. Subaru has worked with it and refined it a bit. Still, it's always a risk to move into something different. Especially when what you're moving away from is so reliable. I could size up to a Highlander, but I just don't like them all that much. And the 4-Runner is just a little too much car for me, with really bad mpg numbers. I'm leaning toward the Subaru. Thanks for the great and honest review.

Thank you very much for this in-depth video, David! Very much appreciated.

Hi, I love this analysis! Is "prime" the same as "premium" in Rav 4?

how well do Subaru CVT's hold up long term? Long term meaning 10 years plus. Really long term would be comparable to my 24 yr old CRV that has only had trans fluid done with no issues. Will they hold up with regular basic maintenance such as that? or more complex?

Hi,, what is the Direct Shift-8-speed eCVT offered only in non-prime XSE and Limited and how is it different than the normal eCVT on other models ?

@AutomotivePress I would love your thoughts on the Rav4 Hybrid vs the Forester. I'm looking at 2023 versions of both. If you know what kind of mileage you are getting with your Rav4 Hybrid, I'd be very interested in knowing that. Also any thoughts regarding expected reliability over the long haul (8+ years) for both the Forester and Rav4 Hybrid. Thanks!

Interesting and excellent review of these two vehicles.

Excellent review, both are really nice vehicles , I would probably purchase the Subaru. I think for 2023 will will see a power boost,that’s all it really needs

how much electricity did your bill go up with the toyota? what is the cost to replace the battery after say 10 years?

I would like to see the stopping distance test and also more info on how the brake paddle and accelerater paddle feels. This makes a huge difference in comfort in the long run but it's normally not included in vehicle comparisons. I had a 2020 Corolla and all controls felt really good and not cheap as one would think. Even the SE model that I had drove over railway crossing really well absorbing the bumps.

Fun fact, they do make a hybrid version of the forester, called the “Forester E-Boxer” it’s only available in Japan, and Europe.

I also thought that small panel was a wast ....but I have come to love it...

As an Industrial Engineer with a Black Belt certification, I LOVE other engineers who pay attention to assembly margins and paint tolerances! 😍 👍 it’s much more important than people realize. I can also confirm that a car made in Japan is preferable to one base in the US or Canada. The Japanese are obsessed with zero variances and pursue perfection and processes under complete control. I love the RAV4 Prime but it’s the price is higher than I wanted to pay for a car. I’ve tested it and it’s a dream to drive.

Hi David, can you do the gap and paint thickness measurements for the Tesla model 3? Very interesting to know the Tesla quality. Thanks so much.

I have a 2015 Honda Civic and planning to upgrade and try out a different car brand in a couple years! Ive been checking out Subarus, Mazda and Toyota🎉

I had two Foresters and loved them. When I went to trade for another, my local dealership offered a ridiculous trade-in on my top-of-the-line Subaru. Toyota offered 50% more on the trade as well as the same discount from the sticker price that I had expected from Subaru. I love my RAV4, and my mechanic says it will last almost forever.

LoL I agree with everything you said about the cars. Wow. By the way my dealer wanted to pay me $25k to take back my 2019 forester after 3yrs 17k miles. I paid $27k in Oct 2018

Hello Dave! I’m desperately waiting for you to examine a Subaru Outback Premier XT and/or Outback Wilderness trim. Please? 😅

Had a 2006 Forester and it was as nimble as a cat. Never drove anything quite comparable. I can just imagine what driving a 2022 model might feel like. Thinking that I might just go out and get me one.

We are buying a Forester after test driving the CR-V and RAV4. The road feel and handling, the visibility, and the Powertrain and AWD cross compatibility with all models and the ease of maintenance are a mechanics and engineers dream I think.

David will you review the new Mazda CX50. Same proven drive train as most Mazdas but built in a new factory with new workers. I'm deciding between the CX5 and the new CX50.

Great videos and information about both vehicles.David how can you tell the different which make in Japan and in America?Thanks

How much time does one have to be measuring panel gaps and paint.

I thought you would've stated the engine size and hp of the rav since you did for the subi

Thank you for your sharing

Wow - thank you- never seen anyone do body specs like that.

what about the transmission? My cousin's legacy needed transmission work for a tune of $3,000.00

this is a comparison on the 2022 models. What about for the 2023 models?

How can i buy this suv that is really japan made rather than Canada or US only made. I live in Toronto Canada. Thanks.

I agree with you about the buttons I like the old fashion buttons

I've learned a lot, Sir. Arigato Kujaimasue.

What really has me looking more at Subarus is their ground clearance and better capabilities on unpaved roads/trails. I still believe that a Toyota will last longer though.

We have a 2014 XT version.. and overall it's been very good. However the common issue with one insert on left edge of driver sear cracking (and same on passenger only much longer into the life) was NOT impressive esp given teh price class.. I would have accepted that as a common issue and been fine if Subaru Canada had issued a recall and fixed it.. but not only did they fail on that their extended warranty does NOT cover that. The would cover replacing the entire $1000+ seat etc if something failed in the electrical parts.. but wouldn't even offer a simple repair of the one panel which according to 2 shops I asked that deal with such.. they could have had done for the particular model (only one model and trim had this issue) probably $200 or less w/labor.. just by developing a simple panel replacement whith a overlay and quick stitching Now that said.. the fact they failed to offer this with a true manual was it's biggest downfall.. IMO But that said the CVT in the XT is heavier built and does its job quite well. and thankfully NO IDIOT HYBRID that only jacks up costs and is a guaranteed major expense down the road

Can you do Ascent vs Highlander

we have the SUV segment because of those 2 worldwide:) great cars both - i think in USA other models have started the movement - US made

This two complete different suv. Can you review please Forester vs gas RAV4? That would be fair. Prime is so overpriced for very few miles in electric mode. No, thanks for Prime I would go hybrid. But better if they will ever make Toyota’s hybrid system in outback body. They making EV together, I think a lot more people would appreciate to have Forester or Outback made with Toyota hybrid system

I hope you can show when you're driving in the snow, flood, and muddy and icy roads.

As an owner of a 2012 Prius plug-in, the Rav4 Prime is perhaps three generations more advanced hybrid plug-in technology.

What is the actual fuel consumption? Litres per 100km? For the Forester.

Which is most reliable and will last longer (with regular maintenance upkeep)? Forester or RAV4?

Can you please elaborate why you prefer a traditional transmission over a CVT? I'm curious on the pros and cons for my next car purchase. Thanks!

I am concerned some about the boxer engine and oil leaks. We just traded our Forester for the Rav4 Prime. I prefer the Rav4 Prime, my wife favors the Subaru a little. They are both nice cars and the Subaru served us well.

Larry Kosilla from Ammo NYC has said that Subaru has some of the best paint in the industry. They are up there with Porsche, and WAAAY better than most cars that cost 2-3x more

best review

I own a 2017 Subaru Forester XT myself. We did cross shop out with the last generation Rav4 but didn't like the cabin and driving feel of the Rav4. Plus Subaru AWD is a full-time AWD vs Rav4 front wheel drive bias AWD. Test drove a 2021 Rav4 Prime and I notice there's a lot of vibration when the engine is in charge mode.

RAV4 prime needs to update it’s information tech !

David, I suspect few people have more respect than I do for the 'sensible shoes' approach Subaru brings to their designs where visibility, practicality and function generally reign supreme. Having said that, it has been two decades since Toyota took a major stake in Fuji Heavy Industries and I cannot understand why a small company like Subaru still relies on their own comparatively minor development resources. I highlight this concern because Subaru has NEVER matched the long term QDR and lifespan Toyota products routinely achieve. Perhaps the whole industry is moving to electric powertrains in the next few years but I simply do not understand why Subaru has continued to design separate engines, transmission etc after all these years. 🤔

Had a 2919 Subaru Forester and at14000 miles it had a “sudden, unexpected, acceleration “ issue crashing resulting in a crash into a concrete block wall totaling the car . The manufacture date was Sept 2018

David, why do you think that Subaru does not want to continue with the STI and why has it not ventured into the issue of hybrid cars?

Subaru's logo is based on the constellation Pleades which represents the five groups who continued the company's legacy and the bigger star is the founder Mr. Chikuhei

A family friend of mine who is a mechanic says to avoid Subarus because of their gaskets always go bad and is very expensive to fix. I guess he gets a lot of those issues in his shop.

the 2022 Forester is a class act....

I have a 21 forester. Great overall. Engine and ctv are quiet and smooth in town. But the powertrain really lacks on road trips and mountain driving. My only dislike

Does anyone know which CVT transmission Subaru uses (made, brand)? I prefer Subaru Outback. And no, I don't own either Subaru or Rav 4. Just wondering about my future car choice. Right now I am fine with my 4 Runner...

There isn’t even a question .. the quality, safety and all wheel drive ability of the Subaru and far superior. Whether snow or rain, they are amazing. Function and materials quality is way above Toyota. Plus the Forester will definitely have better resale. They don’t fleet sell them to rental car companies for starters. This helps value for Suburu. Also, Subaru actually gives back to a cause you pick .. what more do you want ?

I was so excited to see this…until I found it was a rav4 prime. I was curious to see a rav4 or rav4 hybrid compared to the forester. Not the ev.

I wish the RAV4 would update its infotainment system. It’s the only thing stopping my wife and I from buying one.

The comparison is so unfair because the RAV4 Prime costs almost twice as much as the Forester, especially with all the dealer markups due to a shortage of supply of RAV4 Primes.

The Prime is a beast,0-60 in 5.7 seconds,all that from an SUV.tHE Subaru i love and if you get the one,i think its the XT,it comes with 2 exhausts at the back and more body kit and its looks awesome.That is the one i would love to have but must express that Subaru should of had a Hybrid by now.They have fallen behind a bit.Should not have happened.Love the paint test.Never really thought about that on a car before.

I have both these cars. I also have a ford, a bmw, an audi, a couple mazdas, a couple vw's, a holden, a jaguar and a lexus. Overall they are good cars 👍

The Forester needs to be brought up in power to at least 215-220 hp. Imagine if it had 6 cylinders and a true gear transmission.. That would be amazing!