​The compact SUV market offers many options, each promising a blend of performance, comfort, and utility. Among the top contenders in this segment are the 2025 Honda CR-V and the 2025 Subaru Forester. Both vehicles have longtime popularity with families and adventure seekers. This comparison provides a comprehensive look at each vehicle and shows why the 2025 Honda CR-V is the better choice.
Design and Exterior Features
The 2025 Honda CR-V's design incorporates an array of exterior updates. These include sleeker lines and a more aerodynamic shape to enhance aesthetics and fuel efficiency. New color options include Solar Silver Metallic.
The Subaru Forester maintains its traditional boxy design, exuding a rugged and dependable appearance. The Forester's design has evolved gradually, but it still holds a certain charm for drivers who value function over flair.
Both vehicles offer attractive silhouettes. The Honda CR-V's aerodynamic improvements and stylish updates appeal to drivers looking for a more modern design, while the Subaru Forester's rugged look holds appeal for off-road enthusiasts.
Interior Comfort and Space
The 2025 Honda CR-V's interior reveals premium craftsmanship, high-quality materials, and smooth finishes. The spacious cabin offers ample headroom and legroom for all passengers. Impressive cargo capacity provides 39.2 cubic feet of storage space behind the rear seats.
The Subaru Forester's interior is more practical, with excellent visibility from the driver's seat and a functional layout. Though the Forester has significant cargo space, it trails slightly behind the CR-V with 29.6 cubic feet with the rear seats up.
The Honda CR-V's roomy cabin and luxurious materials take the lead in interior comfort and space. This makes it an ideal choice for family road trips and outings.
Performance and Handling
The 2025 Honda CR-V's ride is smooth and comfortable, thanks to a refined suspension and responsive steering. Available all-wheel drive (AWD) ensures stability and control across varied terrain. The Subaru Forester has a standard symmetrical AWD for solid off-road capabilities or driving in challenging weather conditions.
The Subaru Forester excels during weekend adventures and longer trips off the beaten path. However, the Honda CR-V's more balanced performance delivers a superior driving experience on city streets and highways.
Engine Specs
The 2025 Honda CR-V's engine specs include a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine yielding 190 hp and 179 lb-ft of torque. A hybrid variant that pairs a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors offers even better performance. The Subaru Forester houses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder BOXER engine, producing 180 hp and 176-8 lb-ft of torque.
The Honda CR-V's turbocharged engine has a slight edge over the Forester's naturally aspirated setup. This difference in powertrain design makes the CR-V an ideal choice for those who value spirited driving.
Fuel Efficiency
The 2025 Honda CR-V's fuel efficiency is excellent, achieving around 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. In comparison, the Subaru Forester provides respectable fuel economy, with estimates of 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. Standard AWD slightly impacts the Forester's efficiency compared to the CR-V.
Overall, the Honda CR-V offers better mileage. This means lower fuel costs and less environmental impact compared to the Forester.
Safety Features and Ratings
The 2025 Honda CR-V's safety features include Honda Sensing: a suite of safety technologies that include a collision mitigation braking system, road departure mitigation, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist.
The Subaru Forester incorporates its latest EyeSight Driver Assist Technology system, which includes pre-collision braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Additional features, such as the DriverFocus distraction mitigation system, aim to reduce distractions.
Both vehicles have a robust set of advanced safety features. However, the Honda CR-V's latest updates give it an edge in safety and peace of mind on the road.
Crash Test Ratings
Unlike its 2024 counterpart, the 2025 Subaru Forester did not earn the highest Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, coming in just below the top mark with a Top Safety Pick score. Test results for the 2025 CR-V are not yet official, but the popular Honda SUV is likely to perform well.
Technology and Connectivity
The 2025 Honda CR-V's technology features include an advanced infotainment system with a large touch-screen display and an available premium audio system for an immersive driving experience. Extensive connectivity features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and remote start via the smartphone app.
The Subaru Forester features the STARLINK Multimedia system, a high-resolution display, and an available Harman Kardon audio system on select trims for top-quality entertainment on the go. The Forester also offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging, and Wi-Fi connectivity options.
The Honda CR-V's user interface is more intuitive, offering quicker response times and easier access to key features. It also includes a more comprehensive suite of connectivity features, making it a clear favorite for tech-savvy buyers. In contrast, the Subaru Forester delivers reliable technology but through a less sophisticated and more complex interface.
Price and Value Proposition
The Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester both have competitive starting prices, enhancing their appeal to budget-conscious consumers. The CR-V provides better value with more standard features included with each trim level. Plus, the Honda CR-V is an investment that pays off in the long run, thanks to Honda's reputation for reliability and impressive resale value.
Discover the Superior Honda CR-V at Ciocca Honda
Both the 2025 Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester offer excellent features and capabilities, but the CR-V outshines its competitors in design, interior comfort, fuel efficiency, and technology. Honda's dedication to quality and reliability makes the CR-V the ideal choice for discerning buyers.
If you'd like to experience the 2025 Honda CR-V for yourself, visit Ciocca Honda in Harrisburg. Stop by our dealership for a test drive or contact us at 1-855-946-1309 for more information.
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