Subaru Forester vs. the Competition in Salem, OR
The Subaru Forester is a compact SUV with a long history. With hints of its go-anywhere attitude and boxy looks still lingering in this vehicle's updated design, the Subaru Forester is still ready to knock your socks off with its quality. But why should you choose the Forester over the competition? With competitors like the 2026 Toyota RAV4 and 2026 Honda CR-V available, the Forester sees stiff competition. See how all three new vehicles compare right here in Salem.
Performance
2026 Subaru Forester: The Subaru Forester features a flat-four 2.5-liter engine with a CVT and standard all-wheel drive. The horsepower output is 180 with 178 pound-feet of torque. Where the Forester shines is off the pavement with the Wilderness trim. The Wilderness offers up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity, 9.3 inches of ground clearance, and selectable Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud drive modes.
2026 Toyota RAV4: The Toyota RAV4 offers a key difference to the Forester in that it is now a hybrid-only SUV. The hybrid powertrain combines a four-cylinder engine and three electric motors for up to 236 horsepower, though the RAV4 PHEV receives 320 horsepower from the same setup. While the RAV4 can tow up to 3,500 pounds, it falls short of the Forester's other off-roading capabilities.
2026 Honda CR-V: The 2026 Honda CR-V offers a standard 190 horsepower from a turbocharged engine. It also offers only 1,500 pounds of optional towing capacity, hill descent control, and a new traction-management system for low-speed off-roading.
Design & Interior
2026 Subaru Forester: When it comes to design, the Subaru Forester is quite eye-catching on Monmouth roads, with yellow and orange highlights and a sloping roofline. Plus, spaciousness is one of its most noteworthy features. The upright cabin, tall windows, and panoramic sunroof provide easy visibility and plenty of space. Maximum cargo space is 75 cubic feet.
2026 Toyota RAV4: The Toyota RAV4 offers a blockier look for Independence driving, with hints of its rugged nature inside and out. It is not quite as spacious as the Forester, but faux-leather upholstery and faux-suede seat coverings add a touch of elegance.
2026 Honda CR-V: The 2026 Honda CR-V provides a much smoother, rounded body style that is sure to offer excellent curb appeal. Inside, find a maximum cargo space of 76.5 cubic feet, rivaling the Forester. However, the 2026 Honda CR-V does not offer the same great visibility as the Forester does.
Technology & Safety
2026 Subaru Forester: Expect the Forester to offer an 11.6-inch, intuitive touchscreen on most models. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a wireless charging pad are standard. There are also several great safety technologies to keep your peace of mind intact.
2026 Toyota RAV4: The RAV4 offers a standard 10.5-inch touchscreen, but offers a larger 12.9-inch screen on a few available models. A nine-speaker JBL sound system is optional. For safety, the RAV4 comes with Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of advanced safety technologies for Dallas, OR, driving.
2026 Honda CR-V: The 2026 Honda CR-V only offers a 9.0-inch touchscreen, but also comes with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. Safety-wise, this Honda SUV also offers advanced technologies for all your drives to Keizer or Wilsonville.
Test Drive a New Subaru Forester at Capitol Subaru of Salem
The new Subaru Forester can easily go toe-to-toe with popular picks from the Toyota and Honda brands, meaning you do not have to worry about choosing the Forester as your number one pick. With the Forester, you can explore more, do more, and count on it more than you would the competition. Do you want to see it for yourself? Schedule a test drive at Capitol Subaru of Salem. Please also remember to browse our pre-owned inventory for even more options.
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Capitol Subaru of Salem
920 Auto Group Ave NE
Salem, OR 97301
- Sales: 503-587-5500
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