Subaru Forester vs. Honda CR-V

The Forester’s most significant edge is that capability is standard: Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and X-MODE® traction management come on most Forester trims, giving predictable grip in rain, snow, and on the muddy trails. That standard AWD makes the Forester a strong choice for drivers who need confidence year-round without paying extra or choosing a special trim.

Subaru’s BOXER® engine layout helps keep weight low for stable handling on twisty back roads and highway ramps.^*

The CR-V offers a typical front-wheel drive base setup (AWD is optional), so if you live where sudden thunderstorms, icy mornings, or gravel county roads are common, the Forester’s always-on AWD and off-road features give it an everyday advantage.

Inside, the Forester emphasizes visibility, practical storage, and comfortable seating for adults in both rows, features drivers appreciate on long commutes. When you fold the rear seats, the Forester opens roomy cargo volumes, making weekend gear, camping packs, or large grocery hauls easy to load. Reviewers praise its simple, user-friendly layout and the robust feel of materials designed to handle active lifestyles.

The CR-V typically offers slightly larger cargo numbers on paper and a very polished cabin with more interior storage nooks in some trims, which is attractive if maximum cargo cubic feet is the priority.

That said, the Forester’s combination of visibility, durable finishes, and straightforward controls makes it especially well-suited to drivers who want a comfortable, no-nonsense interior that wears well and works hard in daily life.

Safety is a key reason many buyers pick Subaru. The Forester benefits from Subaru’s long history of strong crashworthiness and crash-avoidance systems. Subaru’s EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology—with features like Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure & Sway Warning, Pre-Collision Braking, and Automatic Emergency Steering—is standard on many Forester trims, helping prevent accidents before they happen. Those built-in safety systems and robust crash test results make the Forester a great choice if safety is a top priority for your family.

The CR-V also scores well in safety testing and offers modern crash-avoidance features. However, with Forester’s consistently equipped safety suite, Subaru gives many buyers a single-vehicle solution for everyday safety and confidence.