 Subaru Forester |
VS |  Honda CR-V |
Welcome to the new 2013 Subaru Forester vs Honda CR-V comparison review. At the time of posting in February 2013 both were newly released models for the year and refinements over their prior versions.
We didn’t really like the prior Subaru Forester even though many did. The main reason was that it looked and felt cheap, lacked equipment standard in other cars in the same price bracket. Thankfully the all new model rectifies all the main deficiencies and adds a few things most will appreciate. They haven’t addressed the issue of high maintenance costs over the long term…
Subaru Forester Vs Honda CRV exterior: The Forester looks better in real life than in pictures but still a mix of trying to appeal to the conservative yet and trying to look different from the other small SUVs in particular Subaru’s own XV. We don’t think some of the details work but is much better than the block of wood Liberty/Legacy. The CRV looks modern and definitely on the good side. Strangely, we like both.
Subaru Forester Vs Honda CRV interior: The interior of the Forester is car like and essentially a replica of the Subaru XV which in turn looks very much like the 120 series Prado and even the Suzuki Grand Vitara. Regardless it is a nice place to be. The CRV has custom SUV focused interior and leads the pack in regards to interior storage and looks at good at the same time hence the CRV wins this comparison because of that. However note that both Forester and CRV have some materials that are on the cheap side.
Subaru Forester Vs Honda CRV engine and technology: The Forestor is only comes in AWD where as you can get the Honda in 2WD or AWD models. The engine technology is good on both but the Subaru has the optional high performance turbo in the XT model which puts it an a entirely different category. The CVT automatic in the Subaru is also the latest trend but lets face it the reason why the CX-5 for example sells better than other SUVs because it has a regular automatic yet delivers better fuel consumption and drives better. Subaru wins this part of the comparison purely because it has more advanced stuff but not necessarily better.
Subaru Forester Vs Honda CRV test drive: N/A
We predict the Forester will sell quite well but it does cost more to run and maintain than the CRV. Both are well equipped for the price but the when comparing base models there’s not much in it. Overall we think that if you want space and everyday utility and a car that drives properly than the CRV is the choice. If you want a the option of performance but at a price than the Forester is the small SUV to buy.
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| Subaru Forester | Honda CR-V |
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| Engines | |
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FB20 series engine FB25 series engine EE20 series engine FB20 series engine |
4 Cylinder (K2579) Cylinder (R20A5) 4 cylinder (D4HA) |
| Weight | |
| Kerb weight FROM 1566Kg Towing capacity up to 1800kg |
Kerb weight FROM 1460 Kg |
| Fuel capacity & consumption | |
| Up to 60 litres FB20 2.0 Petrol 7.2 Lts per 100km AVG (CVT) FB25 2.4 Petrol 8.1 Lts per 100km AVG EE20 2.2 Turbo Diesel 5.9 Lts per 100km AVG FB20T 2.0 Turbo Petrol 8.1 Lts per 100km AVG |
Up to 58 litres |
| Other specifications | |
| 6 speed manual or CVT Auto Overall height/width 1735/1795 Overall length/wheelbase 4595/2640 4WD system: AWD ANCAP Safety: 5/5 Tyre size: xxx |
6 speed manual or 5 speed Auto |
| Capability | |
| Angle of: (degrees) Approach xx Departure xx Breakover xx Ground clearance (unloaded) 215mm Water Fording depth xxmm Max |
Angle of: (degrees) |
| Performance | |
| FB20 Petrol 0-100kph 10.5kph secs EE20 Turbo Diesel 0-100kph 10.5 secs FB20 2.0 litre turbo petrol 0-100kph 7.5secs |
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| Pricing | |
| 2013 $30,990 – 50,490 AUD *Always check with the dealer for up to date pricing, specifications, on-road costs, accessories and specials etc.. everything as usual is subject to change! |
2013 $27,490 – 42,290 AUD |
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