2025 Subaru Forester vs. Honda CR-V SUV Comparison in Bensenville, IL

When you want an SUV with excellent versatility and adventure-ready capability, look no further than the 2025 Subaru Forester or 2025 Honda CR-V. While each of these two-row SUVs offer plenty of upscale interior features, potent engine options, and forward-looking technology, there are several key differences that may help one stand out as the top option for your busy lifestyle.

If you prefer the 2025 Forester, continue your research with our in-depth model review. Then, browse the new inventory at our Subaru dealership in Bensenville, IL, and schedule a test drive to form a firsthand impression.

Contact a Grand Subaru representative for more information about your chosen model online or by calling us at (630) 595-0250.

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2025 Subaru Forester Exterior Near Forest Pond

2025 Subaru Forester

2025 Subaru Forester vs. Honda CR-V Key Subaru Forester Highlights

What sets the 2025 Subaru Forester apart from the Honda CR-V? From the powertrain to the interior to the connectivity and tech, you’ll notice the Forester offers several key advantages that may make it the right choice for you.

These key differences include:

  • Standard AWD — The Subaru Forester features standard symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD) while the Honda CR-V offers AWD as an upgrade.
  • Heated Comfort — While both models offer heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, only the Forester offers heated rear seats.
  • Interior Space — You’ll find more headroom in both rows with the Subaru Forester, as well as more legroom in the front seats.
  • Infotainment Touchscreen — Appreciate premium visibility with the larger 11.6-inch touchscreen available in the Forester.
  • Expansive Camera Views — Only the Subaru Forester offers an available 360-degree camera system.

2025 Subaru Forester vs. Honda CR-V Interior Size & Feature Comparison

Enjoy a blend of premium and practical features within the 2025 Subaru Forester and Honda CR-V. Both models offer cloth or leather seat upholstery, but only the Forester is available with water-repellent StarTex® seat upholstery — excellent for the everyday adventurer. Shared available features in both models include dual-zone automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats and steering wheel, and a ten-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. For added comfort throughout the frosty Illinois winter months, the Forester offers heated rear outboard seats.

While both the Forester and CR-V are two-row, five-seat SUVs, there are a few interior differences to consider. You get more headroom in both the first and second rows with the Subaru. Stretch out with over 43 inches of front legroom in the Subaru SUV and over 41 inches of front legroom in the Honda SUV.

Compare the Forester and CR-V interior specs in the accompanying chart.

2025 ModelSubaru ForesterHonda CR-V
SeatingFiveFive
Passenger Volume110.8 cu.-ft.106 cu.-ft.
Headroom (Front/Rear)41.2 / 39.6 in.40 / 38.2 in.
Legroom (Front/Rear)43.3 / 39.4 in.41.3 / 41 in.
Max. Cargo Volume74.4 cu.-ft.76.5 cu.-ft.
Cargo Volume Behind Second Row29.6 cu.-ft.39.3 cu.-ft.
2025 Subaru Forester Interior Seating Side View

2025 Subaru Forester

2025 Subaru Forester Interior Rear Cargo Space

2025 Subaru Forester

2025 Subaru Forester vs. Honda CR-V Engine Specs Compared

While both the 2025 Subaru Forester and 2025 Honda CR-V feature a four-cylinder engine, their engine build is notably different. The Forester features a 2.5L SUBARU BOXER® engine with four horizontally opposed cylinders. By comparison, the Honda CR-V is powered by a 1.5L turbocharged inline four-cylinder (I4) engine — with lower displacement than the Subaru, compensated for via the turbocharger. Overall, performance specs are close. Torque output is nearly identical, and the CR-V makes just 10 horsepower more than the Forester. Both models can tow up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped. Additionally, the CR-V offers a hybrid powertrain.

Every Subaru Forester features symmetrical AWD paired with a Lineartronic® CVT (continuously variable transmission). Meanwhile, the CR-V features either front-wheel drive (FWD) or AWD, and also features a CVT.

Compare the performance specs for the two models in the accompanying chart.

ModelSubaru ForesterHonda CR-VHonda CR-V
Engine2.5L SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder1.5L turbocharged I42.0L two-motor hybrid
Horsepower180 HP190 HP204 total system HP
Torque178 lb.-ft.179 lb.-ft.145 lb.-ft.
MPG (City/Hwy)26 / 3328 / 3443 / 36
Max. Towing Capacity1,500 lbs.1,500 lbs.1,000 lbs.

2025 Subaru Forester vs. Honda CR-V Safety & Technology Differences

Discover premium connectivity and tech-supported peace of mind in both the 2025 Subaru Forester and Honda CR-V.

Both models feature a standard 7-inch infotainment touchscreen, and both provide upgraded touchscreens in elevated trims. Find a 9-inch touchscreen in select CR-V models or a SUBARU STARLINK® 11.6-inch Multimedia Navigation system in select Forester models. Wired Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ is standard with both models, with wireless connectivity available. Play your music, audiobooks, and podcasts through a premium available sound system in either model — a Bose® system with 12 speakers in the CR-V and an 11-speaker Harman Kardon® audio system in the Forester.

Each SUV comes with its own unique safety suite — Honda Sensing® in the CR-V and EyeSight® driver assist technologies in the Forester. Among the features in the Honda are a Collision Mitigation Braking System™, a lane-keeping assist system, and adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow. Likewise, the Forester comes with advanced adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and pre-collision braking. While both models feature a rearview camera system, only the Subaru Forester offers the enhanced visibility available via a 360-degree surround view monitor.

Available Forester safety features include:

  • EyeSight driver assist technology
    • Advanced adaptive cruise control with lane centering
    • Pre-collision braking
    • Lane departure and sway warning
    • Lane-keep assist
    • Automatic emergency steering
  • High beam assist
  • DriverFocus® distraction mitigation system
  • Blind spot detection with lane change assist and rear cross-traffic alert
  • Reverse automatic braking
  • 360-degree surround view monitor
2025 Subaru Forester Interior Infotainment System

2025 Subaru Forester

2023 Subaru Forester vs. Honda CR-V | Bensenville, IL

Looking to find your bliss in a premium SUV built with versatility, capability, and comfort in mind? The 2023 Subaru Forester and 2023 Honda CR-V are two great options. From digital innovations to energetic and efficient performance, both the Forester and CR-V make an excellent companion for any adventure — but when it comes to choosing the SUV that suits you best, which one is a good fit? The professionals at Grand Subaru have put the two models head-to-head in this comparison to help you decide. For an in-depth look at the Forester, check out our 2023 Forester review guide or our detailed Forester trim levels comparison.

Love the 2023 Subaru Forester? Find your favorite model in our inventory, and experience it in person when you schedule a test drive at our dealership in Bensenville, IL. Contact us online or give us a call at (708) 934-3489 if you have any questions, and a team member will be happy to assist you.

Interior Comfort & Tech 

Both the 2023 Subaru Forester and 2023 Honda CR-V boast a welcoming interior packed with cutting-edge comfort and convenience features. Keep passengers relaxed with available shared amenities like dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats and steering wheel, and reclining rear seats. The Forester individually offers the option for heated rear outboard seats, adding optimal comfort for everyone. 

You can access a variety of user-friendly tech built to enhance convenience and connectivity in either the 2023 Forester or CR-V. Each offers seamless smartphone integration through a stunning touchscreen display — 6.5 inches or 8 inches on the Forester and 7 inches or 9 inches on the CR-V. Additionally, exclusive optional features for each model include a 12-speaker Bose® sound system and wireless charger on the CR-V or a nine-speaker Harman Kardon® system and 4G LTE Wi-Fi® hotspot on the Forester to help you stay in touch on the go. 

Dimensions & Cargo Space

Find comfortable accommodations for all in the 2023 Subaru Forester and 2023 Honda CR-V. From sizable cargo volume for bulky objects to spacious legroom for even the tallest rear-seat traveler, both models offer an ample and versatile interior fit for your needs. Have your hands full? Either SUV offers an available power liftgate to help make loading and unloading your cargo a breeze.

The 2023 Forester delivers even more helpful features you’re sure to appreciate, such as easy one-touch folding rear seats, cargo area grocery bag and tie-down hooks, and cargo area underfloor storage.

2023 Subaru Forester

Model

2023 Honda CR-V

Five

Seating

Five

182.7 in.

Vehicle Length

184.8 in.

111.6 cu.-ft.

Passenger Volume

103.5 cu.-ft.

41.2 / 39.6 in.

Headroom (Front / Rear)

38.2 / 38.2 in.

43.3 / 39.4 in.

Legroom (Front / Rear)

41.3 / 41 in.

74.2 / 28.9 cu.-ft.

Cargo Volume Behind First / Second Row

76.5 / 39.3 cu.-ft.

Engine & Performance

Tap into ultimate confidence, control, and efficiency on the road in a highly capable SUV like the 2023 Subaru Forester or 2023 Honda CR-V. The CR-V offers two dynamic engines with the option of a hybrid as well as either a front-wheel (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) system, and the Forester makes your choice easy with one vigorous engine and standard symmetrical AWD capabilities. Both models are equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), and the Forester lets you opt for a seven- or eight-speed manual mode on select trims.

2023 Subaru Forester

Model

2023 Honda CR-V

2.5L I4

Engine

1.5L turbo I4

2.0L hybrid I4

182 HP

Horsepower

190 HP

145 HP

176 lb.-ft.

Torque

179 lb.-ft.

138 lb.-ft.

Lineartronic® CVT 

Transmission

CVT

E-CVT

AWD

Drive Type

FWD / AWD

AWD

26 / 33

MPG (city / hwy)

28 / 34

43 / 36

Safety Options & Features

A suite of innovative active safety and driver assistance features on both the 2023 Subaru Forester and 2023 Honda CR-V can help you take on every journey with confidence. While the Forester offers EyeSight® driver assist technology and the CR-V offers Honda Sensing® assistance features, both models provide similar forward-thinking safety features designed to enhance your peace of mind. Adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assistance, blind spot monitoring, and a rear view camera are among the similar available safety features for each model. 

Exclusively on the Forester, you can find helpful features like a 180-degree front view monitor and a DriverFocus distraction mitigation system engineered to help you remain aware of your surroundings at all times.

2023 Subaru Forester vs. Honda CR-V Colors

Both the 2023 Subaru Forester and 2023 Honda CR-V have a variety of vibrant exterior colors made to suit your unique style.

2023 Subaru Forester Exterior Colors:

  • Cascade Green Silica
  • Horizon Blue Pearl
  • Crystal White Pearl
  • Magnetite Gray Metallic
  • Autumn Green Metallic
  • Crimson Red Pearl
  • Crystal Black Silica
  • Ice Silver Metallic
  • Brilliant Bronze Metallic
  • Sapphire Blue Pearl
  • Geyser Blue

2023 Honda CR-V Exterior Colors:

  • Canyon River Blue Metallic
  • Crystal Black Pearl 
  • Lunar Silver Metallic
  • Meteorite Gray Metallic
  • Platinum White Pearl
  • Radiant Red Metallic 
  • Still Night Pearl
  • Urban Gray Pearl

2023 Subaru Forester vs. Honda CR-V Price

The 2023 Subaru Forester starts at $26,395 MSRP, and the 2023 Honda CR-V starts at $28,410 MSRP. If you love the 2023 Forester, browse our inventory at Grand Subaru in Bensenville, IL, to find your preferred trim, and give us a call at (708) 934-3489 or fill out our inquiry form if you have questions.

2025 Subaru Forester vs. Honda CR-V Test Drive a New Subaru Forester in Bensenville, IL, Today

Take an in-person look at the Subaru Forester and see if it’s the right fit for you. Browse the new inventory at our Subaru dealership in Bensenville, IL, to find your favorite model, then use our convenient online scheduling form to set up a time for your visit. Have a question for our team? Speak with a Grand Subaru representative on the phone at (630) 595-0250 or send us a message to start the conversation.

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* Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, title or non-infringement. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include applicable tax, title, and license. Not responsible for typographical errors.

**The arrival timeline is an estimate. It may vary due to circumstances beyond Subaru’s or the retailer’s control.


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