Toyota RAV4 Is Playing Checkers While The Subaru Forester Plays Chess

Which is the best small SUVs for new car shoppers? Consumer Reports says the popular 2024 Toyota RAV4 is one to avoid, and the 2024 Subaru Forester is the intelligent pick now.

In a previous story, I covered the 2024 Toyota RAV4 vs. the 2024 Subaru Forester, which said you should avoid the Toyota RAV4 and buy the 2024 Subaru Forester instead. Consumer Reports (by subscription) revealed why the most popular model, Toyota RAV4, is not the best choice. CR says you should be smart and choose the 2024 Subaru Forester. Here's why.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 is the top-selling small SUV. Toyota has sold 387,899 RAV4 models this year. Subaru has sold 136,913 Forester models in 2023. Just because the RAV4 is popular doesn't mean it's better. The RAV4 has a much lower overall Consumer Reports score (75 points) than the 2024 Subaru Forester (88 points).

Here is why Consumer Reports says to avoid the 2024 Toyota RAV4.

CR says, "The RAV4 is one of the most popular models on the market. The red-hot small SUV segment draws buyers by being reliable and fuel-efficient. But the recent move to a lower, wider appearance has compromised interior space. Plus, its bland cabin, droning engine noise, and ride comfort that trails the competition has resulted in below-average owner satisfaction in our Annual Auto Surveys."

Why Consumer Reports says the 2024 Subaru Forester is the better small SUV choice.

CR says, "Subaru nailed the ideal small SUV configuration, with compact exterior dimensions, a tall roof, and a surprisingly roomy interior. Throw in a fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine, essential safety features, and a standard all-wheel-drive system that out-claws rivals, and the Forester is a true gem. Subaru has honed this package for years, perfecting a model that's easy to recommend. A redesigned Forester goes on sale this spring as a 2025 model."

photo credit: Competition Subaru

Should you buy the 2024 Subaru Forester or wait for the redesigned 2025 Subaru Forester?

There are two major benefits to buying the 2024 Forester compact SUV now and not waiting. 

1. The 2025 Subaru Forester will be more expensive than the 2024 Forester. 

Subaru of America has yet to release pricing for the new model, but there will be a significant price increase for the six-generation 2025 Forester. Subaru Corporation spent considerable resources to develop the new Forester model, and they have to recoup their redesign costs.  

2. The 2024 Subaru Forester is reliable.

All the flaws have been addressed at the end of the Forester's product life cycle. According to Consumer Reports, the 2024 Forester is one of the most reliable small SUVs. The 2024 Forester is among the ten most reliable new cars you can buy now. 

The 2025 Subaru Forester is all-new and received a complete redesign from the ground up. As with any all-new vehicle, some issues will need to be addressed once it rolls off the assembly line. The 2025 Forester is expected to be reliable, but there may be some new model glitches. 

Here is the pricing information for customers who want to buy the 2024 Forester.

The Forester comes in six trim levels: The Base Forester starts at $28,190, Premium ($31,390), Sport ($32,960), Limited ($35,070), Wilderness ($36,015), and Touring ($38,490). Pricing includes destination and dealer fees ($1,295).

My take

In addition, what CR says about the Subaru Forester is that the 2024 Forester comes with added features for active customers you won't find on the Toyota RAV4. All come with Subaru's Symmetrical all-wheel-drive for all-weather capability, but all the Forester trim levels come with X-Mode for severe winter weather capability. 

Forester Sport, Wilderness, Limited, and Touring trims have dual-function X-Mode for all-terrain capability for the most active customers. It features a Deep Snow / Mud setting. Wilderness models also include a Low Speed / Low Ratio Gradient Control.

Your turn

Will you buy a 2024 Subaru Forester now or wait for the redesigned 2025 Forester?

Thanks for reading, everyone. I hope you enjoyed this Subaru Forester vs. Toyota RAV4 story. See you tomorrow for my latest Subaru Report.

For additional articles related to new Subaru models, here are a few of my top stories you may enjoy. 

My Must-Read Top Picks

• CR’s 14 Best SUVs Under $40K And Subaru’s 3 Top Picks
• Subaru Outback Takes A Back Seat To Forester And Crosstrek
• Subaru Forester Is On An Impressive 5-Month Run And Gets Hotter With Age

Check out the 2025 Subaru Forester World Premiere First Look

I am Denis Flierl, a 12-year Torque News senior writer with 20+ years of Subaru and automotive journalism experience. I enjoy bringing you, the Subaru fans and customers, the most up-to-date Subaru news, reviews, and new model information. You'll find the latest Subaru stories on the Subaru page. Follow me on my The Dirty Subaru website, Dirty Subaru blog, SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

I’ve got you covered! - I cover all Subaru all the time - It’s called the “Subaru Report.” Check back daily for my expert Subaru analysis!

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photo credit: main image Tucson Subaru