Compare The Subaru Forester to its Competition at Sunset Hills Subaru

Experience the perfect blend of safety, versatility, and innovation with the 2026 Subaru Forester. Serving families and outdoor enthusiasts in Sunset Hills, MO, and surrounding communities like St Louis, Chesterfield, and Maplewood, the Forester sets new standards among compact SUVs. Let’s explore why the Forester remains the best choice over the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 for your daily commute, weekend adventures, and all your Missouri drives.

Table of Contents

• Comprehensive Overview and Top Recommendation
• Distinctive Vehicle Profiles and Market Positions
• Performance and Handling: Confident on Every Road
• Exterior Design: Rugged Identity Meets Modern Practicality
• Interior Comfort and Space: Room for Families and Gear
• Technology and Connectivity: Intuitive and User-Friendly
• Safety Systems and Driver Assistance: Protecting What Matters Most
• Fuel Economy and Environmental Responsibility
• Everyday Practicality and Versatility
• Value and Ownership Experience
• Final Recommendation: Your Next Trusted SUV from Sunset Hills Subaru

Comprehensive Overview and Top Recommendation

When comparing the 2026 Subaru Forester, 2026 Honda CR-V, and 2026 Toyota RAV4, several critical dimensions come into focus: standard all-wheel drive, safety innovations, spacious interiors, and fuel efficiency tuned for active Missouri lifestyles. The Subaru Forester excels in delivering dependable performance on rain-soaked St Charles roads and rugged areas near Valley Park thanks to its symmetrical all-wheel drive system standard across all trims—unlike the CR-V and RAV4, which reserve AWD mostly for higher trims or specific hybrid models.

Additionally, the Forester’s EyeSight® driver assist technology comes standard on every trim, providing comprehensive support such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and emergency steering assist, which the other two competitors either offer as extra-cost packages or not at all. Families in Creve Coeur and Ladue will appreciate Forester’s balance of safety, robust fuel economy, and passenger comfort that comfortably fits five adults along with their gear for weekend trips.

The 2026 Subaru Forester also stands out with its hybrid powertrain option, improving fuel efficiency without compromising capability, rivaling Honda’s hybrid CR-V and Toyota’s hybrid-only RAV4. Its Wilderness trim further delivers enhanced off-road features, perfect for those excursions around Sappington or Richmond Heights. Overall, the Forester easily earns our strong recommendation for its versatility, technology, and ownership value in the compact SUV segment.

Distinctive Vehicle Profiles and Market Positions

Subaru Forester: The Rugged All-Weather Companion

The 2026 Forester presents a practical yet upscale choice with rugged styling cues, such as a boxy silhouette and robust roof rails rated for substantial loads. It offers **standard symmetrical all-wheel drive**, an essential feature for Missouri drivers facing seasonal weather changes and varied road surfaces. The introduction of the redesigned center console and hybrid powertrain options keeps the Forester current and versatile for users prioritizing safety, cargo, and environmental responsibility.

Honda CR-V: A Spacious, Tech-Improved Contender

Honda’s CR-V remains competitive with an increase in infotainment screen size and a strong 190-hp turbocharged engine. It also pushes technology upgrades like standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, wireless charging, and a larger digital gauge cluster on higher trims. However, its **all-wheel drive system is optional** and not standard, which may limit confidence in less ideal driving conditions familiar to drivers living in Webster Groves and Maplewood. The CR-V emphasizes cabin comfort and cargo space, which is impressive, but it lacks the standard AWD and off-road capability inherent in the Forester.

Toyota RAV4: A Hybrid-Only Fuel-Sipper with Style and Power

Toyota’s 2026 RAV4 shifts exclusively to hybrid powertrains, boosting fuel efficiency and offering an available plug-in hybrid variant. The RAV4 features modern exterior design, advanced infotainment with large touchscreen options, and an off-road-focused Woodland trim. Still, its **AWD system is limited to hybrid trims only**, and physical cargo space, while competitive, is slightly less versatile than the Forester’s. The RAV4 appeals to those prioritizing hybrid efficiency but doesn’t match Subaru’s combination of all-weather capability, rugged practicality, and available off-road enhancements.

Performance and Handling: Confident on Every Road

Subaru Forester’s Balanced Power and Control

The Forester’s standard **2.5-liter flat-four engine** delivers 180 horsepower paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), providing smooth and efficient acceleration. For hybrid fans around Fenton and Crestwood, the Forester Hybrid combines this engine with an electric motor, boosting total output to 194 horsepower and significantly enhancing fuel efficiency. Despite its modest power figures, the Forester achieves a 0-60 mph sprint in just around 8.6 seconds, comparable with its rivals.

Its standard AWD system ensures optimal grip on slippery or uneven surfaces, with the Wilderness trim standing out for serious off-road capability via increased ground clearance (9.3 inches), specialized all-terrain tires, and selectable drive modes like Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud. Missouri drivers venturing into Oakland’s rougher trails or Chesterfield’s hilly terrain will benefit from these ready-to-go systems.

Honda CR-V’s Engine Choices and AWD Availability

Honda equips the CR-V with a more powerful 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 190 horsepower. Its hybrid option pushes power to 204 hp, enhancing efficiency and acceleration. Yet, all-wheel drive remains **an option rather than standard**, potentially leaving those navigating variable Missouri climates without ideal traction unless they upgrade. The CR-V features a CVT transmission but has been noted for some engine droning during acceleration—a less refined experience than the Subaru’s.

Toyota RAV4’s Hybrid-Only Powertrain and AWD System

The RAV4’s hybrid powertrain delivers up to 236 combined horsepower with an electronically controlled AWD system on hybrid trims. The plug-in hybrid variant further steps up to 320 horsepower and offers an estimated 50 miles pure EV range. However, Toyota’s absence of a conventional gas-only model means a missing choice for buyers valuing simplicity. The RAV4’s focus on electrification results in excellent towing capabilities of up to 3,500 pounds, matching the Forester Wilderness trim, but its heavier hybrid drivetrain slightly impacts overall agility.

Exterior Design: Rugged Identity Meets Modern Practicality

Subaru Forester’s Distinctive Rugged Appeal

The Forester asserts a classic SUV presence with boxy, purposeful lines and rugged design elements enhanced in the 2026 Wilderness trim. Functional roof rails with high load ratings (800 lbs stationary) complement the aggressive stance. Practical touches like LED hexagonal fog lights and underbody protection emphasize preparedness for all Missouri outdoor activities. With a static roof rail and user-friendly power tailgate featuring kick sensor activation on higher trims, the Forester is built for both style and function.

Honda CR-V’s Contemporary yet Conservative Styling

The CR-V adopts smoother aerodynamic contours and a subtly modernized front fascia. It offers 18-inch wheels on most trims and ruggedized TrailSport styling on hybrid-only trims. However, the CR-V’s more conservative visuals may lack the distinctiveness some families from Richmond Heights or Twin Oaks seek in an adventurous vehicle.

Toyota RAV4’s Bold and Refreshingly Modern Look

The 2026 RAV4 debuts an entirely redesigned exterior with sharp angles, layered body panels, and a broad front grille. The Woodland trim’s rugged touches and 18-inch all-terrain tires lend credibility for off-road use. Unique new colors like Urban Rock and Storm Cloud complement its urban-to-trail versatility. The RAV4 balances sleekness with toughness but doesn’t emphasize the same level of utilitarian robustness as the Forester.

Interior Comfort and Space: Room for Families and Gear

Subaru Forester’s Spacious, Comfort-Driven Cabin

With an upright design focusing on excellent visibility, the Forester provides **front legroom of 43.3 inches and rear legroom of 39.4 inches**, offering generous space for families in St Louis and nearby suburbs. Its cargo capacity is competitive, with **27.5 cubic feet behind rear seats and up to 69.1 cubic feet with them folded**. Hybrid variants maintain equal cargo space thanks to clever packaging of battery components.

Robust materials like StarTex water-resistant upholstery in the Wilderness trim and thoughtfully expanded center console storage (including a smartphone slot and larger rear cupholders) underscore the Forester’s family-friendly practicality. Optional panoramic sunroofs and heated/ventilated seat options add comfort without complicating usability.

Honda CR-V’s Ample Cabin with User-Focused Features

The CR-V offers competitive space with **front legroom at 41.3 inches and rear legroom at 41.0 inches**. Its cargo volume slightly surpasses the Forester, with about **39.3 cubic feet behind rear seats and 76.5 cubic feet folded**. Honda’s reclining rear seats and large center console bolster comfort. However, some occupants may find the interior less rugged and more traditional in material quality, aligning with its urban focus in places like Maplewood or Crestwood.

Toyota RAV4’s Functional and Well-Equipped Interior**

Toyota provides a practical cabin layout featuring a rugged blocky dash design and cloth or faux-leather upholstery with faux-suede options on higher trims. Seating is comfortable for five, but legroom figures are slightly less generous than the Forester's, with cargo volume broadly comparable but not leading the segment. The RAV4 incorporates versatile storage, climate control, and quality finishes, yet prioritizes style over the Forester’s more utilitarian durability.

Technology and Connectivity: Intuitive and User-Friendly

Subaru Forester’s Seamless Digital Interaction

Standard dual 7-inch screens in the base Forester deliver intuitive infotainment, while upper trims feature an **11.6-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™**—perfect for busy Missouri families managing commutes from places like Oakland or Ladue. Dual-zone climate controls emphasize occupant comfort, efficiently regulating only occupied seats, underscoring Subaru’s practical approach.

The Forester Wilderness delivers a unique 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with specialized graphics, and options like a 360-degree camera enhance parking ease around tight Webster Groves streets. Available wireless smartphone charging and a user-friendly interface add to Forester’s tech appeal without overwhelming users.

Honda CR-V’s Elevated Infotainment Capabilities

The CR-V includes a **standard 9-inch touchscreen** across all trims, wireless smartphone integration, and a wireless charging pad as standard equipment. Higher trims offer a **10.2-inch digital gauge cluster** and integrated Google built-in apps, giving the CR-V a tech-forward edge in urban areas like Richmond Heights. While impressive, some features are reserved for upper trims, potentially increasing cost for fully equipped models.

Toyota RAV4’s Advanced Touchscreen and Digital Displays

The RAV4 boasts a **base 10.5-inch touchscreen**, with options up to 12.9 inches and a **standard 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster**, providing crisp graphics and customization. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, and dual wireless charging pads improve convenience. Head-up display and 360-degree cameras are available on higher trims. The RAV4 offers a polished tech experience, albeit often bundled deeper into higher trim pricing.

Safety Systems and Driver Assistance: Protecting What Matters Most

Subaru Forester’s Standard EyeSight® Driver Assist: Industry Leading

Safety remains the Forester’s cornerstone with Subaru’s **EyeSight® suite standard on every trim**, including automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and expanded emergency steering assist on select trims. Innovations like **reverse automatic braking, blind-spot detection with lane change assist**, and a **DriverFocus® distraction mitigation system** on top trims provide peace of mind for families in Sunset Hills and Valley Park.

The IIHS awarded the Forester the Top Safety Pick designation for 2025, with expected continuation in 2026. Optional surround-view cameras enhance situational awareness in tight parking spots throughout St Charles and Chesterfield.

Honda CR-V’s Safety Suite: Highly Capable but Some Optional Features

Honda Sensing® technology comes standard with forward collision mitigation, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and driver attention monitoring. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert become standard on mid- and higher-end trims such as EX and EX-L. While Honda’s safety package is robust, Forester’s full suite and expanded emergency assist features position it as a more comprehensive choice.

Toyota RAV4’s Advanced Safety Suite

Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 is standard across all RAV4 trims, providing a strong foundation with automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. Additional features include intersection collision mitigation and a 3D multi-terrain monitor exclusive to the Woodland trim. While credible, Toyota’s safety offerings do not include driver distraction management systems like Subaru’s DriverFocus®.

Fuel Economy and Environmental Responsibility

While Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V hybrids offer strong fuel economy numbers, the Subaru Forester Hybrid provides an excellent balance of efficiency and driving range, especially appreciated by Missouri residents commuting between St Louis and surrounding suburbs. The Forester’s fuel tank capacity and efficient powertrain optimize extended trips without frequent refueling stops.

Everyday Practicality and Versatility

Subaru Forester’s Family-First Utility

The Forester excels in real-world usability through features like **larger rear cupholders sized for 32-ounce bottles**, **remodeled center console with ample storage**, and **a spacious rear cargo area** that doesn’t shrink with hybrid components installed. The Wilderness trim’s **3,500-pound towing capacity** rivals others in class while adding rugged exterior protections and terrain-specific drive modes for active lifestyles near Webster Groves or Glendale.

Honda CR-V’s Comfortable Daily Driver Qualities

The CR-V’s roomy interior and **76.5 cubic feet of folded cargo space** make it well-suited for hauling family gear. Handsome interior design details and wide rear seats maximize passenger comfort. However, standard towing capacity maxes at 1,500 pounds—significantly less than the Forester Wilderness, limiting utility in certain scenarios.

Toyota RAV4’s Versatile, Hybrid-Centric Functionality

RAV4 dealers point to its progressive hybrid-only lineup and **ample cargo volume**. While towing reaches 3,500 pounds like Subaru, hybrid powertrain weight slightly encroaches on overall utility and agility during everyday use. The RAV4’s smart roof rails and optional off-road Woodland trim bring utility, but the Forester’s balance of rugged durability and family convenience remains unmatched.

Value and Ownership Experience

While Honda and Toyota offer complimentary maintenance packages for limited periods, Subaru compensates with an outstanding reputation for reliability and outstanding long-term ownership satisfaction, especially valued by families in communities like Sappington and Crestwood. Residents can rely on Sunset Hills Subaru’s knowledgeable team for seamless service experiences, including transparent pricing and loyalty programs that encourage ongoing care.

Final Recommendation: Your Next Trusted SUV from Sunset Hills Subaru

Choosing a compact SUV is about balancing safety, performance, comfort, and long-term value. The 2026 Subaru Forester not only excels in all these critical areas but also embraces the family-oriented, pragmatic values cherished by drivers throughout Sunset Hills, St Louis, and other Missouri neighborhoods.

The Forester’s standard all-wheel drive across every trim, advanced EyeSight® driver assist technology, and practical interior design differentiate it from the Honda CR-V’s optional AWD and the Toyota RAV4’s hybrid-only focus. For active families venturing from Ladue to Fenton, the Forester Wilderness trim delivers off-road readiness without sacrificing daily usability—making it perfect for outdoor pursuits in Missouri’s varied terrain.

For competitive pricing, an array of trim levels, and confidence that lasts for years, we invite you to explore our New Subaru Forester Inventory online or visit us in person at
10100 Watson Rd, Sunset Hills, MO 63127. Our friendly team is ready to assist you with a no-pressure test drive—call us anytime at (314) 476-9638.

Make the smart choice for your family’s safety, comfort, and adventure. Experience the unmatched versatility of the Subaru Forester today.

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