2025 Subaru Forester vs Honda CR-V – Best Mid-Size SUV Battle

Australia’s SUV market is hotter than ever in 2025, and standing tall among the most popular choices are two seasoned veterans – the Subaru Forester and the Honda CR-V. These mid-size SUVs have long earned the trust of Aussie families, off-roaders, and daily commuters alike. Now with electrified powertrains, better safety tech, and revamped interiors, both the Forester and CR-V are back in sharper, smarter form.

But which one should you choose in 2025? In this in-depth comparison, we’ll break down everything that matters – from performance and hybrid efficiency to cabin space, features, safety, and price. If you're stuck between these two top-notch SUVs, this guide will help you decide which is the better fit for your lifestyle and budget.

🆚 Quick Spec Comparison: 2025 Subaru Forester vs Honda CR-V

🔍 Design & Exterior: Who Looks the Part in 2025?

Subaru Forester 2025 – Rugged & Functional

The updated Forester doesn’t stray far from its traditional boxy, practical look. That’s not a bad thing—it’s instantly recognisable and screams outdoorsy confidence. With a bold front grille, raised stance, roof rails, and signature cladding, the Forester remains a favorite for those who seek utility over flair.

• Ground Clearance: 220 mm (great for soft-roading)
• LED headlights standard across range
• 18-inch alloys on most trims
• Rugged X Sport variant available with orange accents

Honda CR-V 2025 – Urban and Upscale

Honda has taken the CR-V in a sleeker, more upmarket direction. The 2025 model is longer, more aerodynamic, and more refined than ever. Think sharp LED lighting, dynamic contours, and a more premium-looking front fascia. It feels closer to a luxury SUV than before.

• Ground Clearance: 198 mm
• 19-inch alloys available on top trims
• LED light bar tail design
• Gloss black and chrome accents for a modern urban touch

✅ Verdict:

The Forester wins for rugged outdoor appeal and higher clearance, while the CR-V stands out for stylish city-friendly aesthetics.

⚙️ Performance & Hybrid Efficiency

Subaru Forester Hybrid – AWD Confidence

The Forester’s hybrid system pairs Subaru’s signature 2.0L Boxer engine with a small electric motor and lithium-ion battery. It offers smooth, linear acceleration and the grip of standard Symmetrical AWD, perfect for slippery roads or weekend trails.

• Power: 110 kW / 196 Nm combined
• 0–100 km/h: ~10.5 sec
• Efficiency: 6.7 L/100km combined

However, the hybrid system is mild, with short electric-only range. It’s focused more on supporting the petrol engine than replacing it.

Honda CR-V e:HEV – Smoother and Greener

Honda’s full hybrid setup uses a 2.0L Atkinson-cycle engine and two electric motors. The e:HEV behaves more like an EV in low-speed conditions and transitions smoothly to petrol when needed.

• Power: 152 kW / 335 Nm (combined)
• 0–100 km/h: ~8.7 sec
• Efficiency: 5.5 L/100km (FWD)

Honda’s hybrid system feels more refined, with better acceleration and real-world fuel savings.

✅ Verdict:

The Honda CR-V e:HEV clearly leads in fuel efficiency and hybrid smoothness. The Subaru Forester, however, retains an advantage with full-time AWD for better off-road control.

🛋️ Interior Comfort & Space

Forester Cabin – Airy and Practical

Subaru’s cabin prioritises visibility, comfort, and rugged functionality. The interior isn’t flashy but is easy to live with, especially for families and tall passengers.

• Soft-touch materials and water-resistant trim on Sport variant
• Massive visibility thanks to thin pillars and large windows
• 509L boot space (up to 1,775L with seats down)
• Rear seats recline and split 60/40
• Wide-opening rear doors – great for child seats

CR-V Interior – Premium Tech-Focused

Honda has lifted the CR-V cabin to near-luxury status. The materials feel top-notch, and the layout is minimalist but high-tech.

• 9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• 10.2-inch digital driver cluster
• Boot space: 589L (up to 1,634L folded)
• USB-C ports front and rear
• Excellent NVH insulation (super quiet inside)

Rear passenger space is generous in both, but CR-V’s rear seats slide and recline for added flexibility.

✅ Verdict:

The CR-V impresses with premium tech and boot space, while the Forester feels more practical and family-friendly with its ergonomics and visibility.

🔐 Safety & Driver Assistance

Both SUVs receive a full 5-star ANCAP safety rating for 2025 and come packed with features.

Subaru Forester Safety Features:

• EyeSight Driver Assist (adaptive cruise, lane centering, AEB)
• Rear AEB, blind-spot monitor, and rear cross-traffic alert
• Driver fatigue monitoring
• 7 airbags

Honda CR-V Safety Features:

• Honda Sensing 360 (adaptive cruise, lane keeping, AEB)
• Traffic Jam Assist with semi-autonomous features
• Blind-spot info with lane change assist
• Rear occupant alert
• 11 airbags including front-centre

✅ Verdict:

Honda CR-V takes the edge with newer safety tech and more airbags. However, Subaru’s EyeSight remains among the most respected safety suites in the business.

🧭 Driving Experience: Handling & Ride Quality

Forester – Easygoing, Off-Road Ready

The Forester is known for its balanced handling and soft suspension. The AWD system adds confidence in poor weather or dirt trails, while X-Mode terrain control helps on light off-road tracks.

• Light steering, great visibility
• Soft ride over bumps
• Slight body roll in corners, but safe and predictable

CR-V – Refined Urban Comfort

The CR-V feels more car-like on the road. It’s quieter, more composed, and offers better cornering manners thanks to its newer platform and stiffer suspension tuning.

• Excellent noise suppression
• Linear throttle with hybrid system
• Agile for its size, particularly FWD models

✅ Verdict:

Forester wins for those who frequent gravel or muddy roads. CR-V delivers a more polished and city-friendly drive.

💵 Pricing, Trims & Value

Subaru Forester Hybrid 2025:

• L Hybrid AWD: ~$42,000
• Sport Hybrid AWD: ~$46,000
• S Hybrid AWD: ~$50,000
  All trims include AWD, EyeSight, and a comprehensive feature list.

Honda CR-V e:HEV 2025:

• VTi L7 (Petrol 7-seater): ~$45,000
• VTi X Hybrid (FWD): ~$48,000
• VTi LX Hybrid (AWD): ~$55,000

CR-V’s hybrid variants are positioned higher, but offer more tech, better fuel economy, and luxury-like cabin appointments.

✅ Verdict:

The Forester Hybrid delivers AWD and strong safety value across all trims. The CR-V Hybrid is pricier, but justifies the cost with performance, tech, and fuel savings.

🔁 Ownership Costs & Reliability

Subaru Forester:

• 5-year/unlimited km warranty
• Capped-price servicing
• Real-world hybrid economy varies – some owners report 7–8 L/100km

Honda CR-V:

• 5-year/unlimited km warranty
• 10-year service plan
• Hybrid versions save more on fuel over time

Both brands are known for reliability, though Subaru has a longer off-road pedigree, while Honda leads in hybrid expertise.

🏁 Final Verdict – Which Mid-Size SUV Wins in 2025?

🏆 Overall Winner: Honda CR-V e:HEV

The 2025 Honda CR-V hybrid edges out as the more refined, efficient, and tech-savvy SUV. It’s ideal for buyers seeking a premium daily driver with strong fuel economy and the latest safety systems.

That said, the Subaru Forester still holds its ground—especially if you live in regional areas, enjoy occasional off-road trips, or want full-time AWD without paying extra.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Who Should Buy Which?

• Choose Forester if you:
  • Need standard AWD for camping or country roads
  • Prefer a taller, more rugged SUV
  • Value practicality and visibility over flashy tech
• Choose CR-V if you:
  • Want class-leading fuel efficiency
  • Prioritise a high-end interior and advanced safety
  • Mostly drive in cities and highways

If you're on the hunt for your next mid-size SUV in 2025, both the Subaru Forester and Honda CR-V remain excellent options. It all depends on your priorities—rugged adventure vs urban comfort. Either way, you’re getting a smart, safe, and efficient SUV built for Australian roads.