2025 Subaru Forester vs 2025 Toyota Rav4
Compare the Subaru Forester vs the Toyota RAV4
If you're searching for a reliable, capable compact SUV in Birmingham, AL, the 2025 Subaru Forester and the 2025 Toyota RAV4 are likely on your radar. Both are well-known for their everyday versatility, safety features, and efficiency—but they’re not created equal. Whether you’re commuting on I-65 or planning a weekend escape to Oak Mountain State Park, it’s important to choose the SUV that fits your lifestyle. Let’s see how the Forester and RAV4 compare where it counts most.
Performance
2025 Subaru Forester: The Forester features a 2.5L SUBARU BOXER® engine with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and a smooth CVT, making it perfect for handling Birmingham’s unpredictable weather and occasional off-road detours.
2025 Toyota RAV4: Offers a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. An 8-speed automatic transmission delivers decent responsiveness. All-wheel drive is available but not standard, which could be a downside for drivers navigating Alabama’s hilly or rainy roads.
Interior & Technology
2025 Subaru Forester: The Forester’s refined interior features an available 11.6-inch STARLINK® touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, and available heated seats—great for early morning drives through Red Mountain Park. With spacious rear legroom and intuitive controls, it’s a favorite for growing families around Birmingham.
2025 Toyota RAV4: The RAV4 features a clean dashboard layout with a standard 8-inch or available 10.5-inch touchscreen. While Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are included, wireless connectivity is limited to higher trims. The cabin is comfortable but can feel less refined on Birmingham’s older roads.
Cargo Space
Whether you’re loading up for a road trip to the Gulf Coast or hauling gear for a tailgate at Legion Field, cargo space matters.
2025 Subaru Forester: Offers 29.6 cubic feet of cargo room behind the rear seats and 74.2 cubic feet with the seats folded flat. The wide rear gate opening and low load floor make it easy to load up coolers, luggage, or home improvement supplies from local Birmingham stores.
2025 Toyota RAV4: Provides slightly more space behind the second row at 37.6 cubic feet, but total volume caps at 69.8 cubic feet when folded. The hands-free liftgate is a nice touch, but the higher cargo floor can make loading heavier items more difficult.
Fuel Economy
2025 Subaru Forester:
- City: 26 mpg
- Highway: 33 mpg
- All-wheel drive is standard across all trims—no extra cost
2025 Toyota RAV4:
- City: 27 mpg (FWD)
- Highway: 35 mpg (FWD)
- AWD models have slightly lower fuel efficiency
Safety Features
2025 Subaru Forester: Standard with Subaru’s EyeSight® suite, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, Pre-Collision Braking, and more. It’s a smart pick for navigating the busy U.S. 280 corridor or tackling I-459 in rush hour traffic. Top trims also offer DriverFocus® to reduce distractions.
2025 Toyota RAV4: Comes with Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+, which offers similar features like Lane Departure Alert and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. However, more advanced features like blind-spot monitoring require a higher trim level or package upgrade.
Why the 2025 Subaru Forester Is a Smart Choice for Birmingham Drivers
The 2025 Subaru Forester stands out in the Birmingham area thanks to its standard all-wheel drive, excellent safety ratings, and smart utility features. Whether you're exploring Ruffner Mountain trails or simply tackling your daily commute, the Forester offers the confidence and comfort you need. Visit Hallmark Subaru in Birmingham, AL, and experience why so many local drivers are making the switch to Subaru.