Compare the Subaru Forester to the Toyota RAV4 in Saint Johnsbury, VT
Comparing Compact SUVs: The 2026 Subaru Forester vs the 2026 Toyota RAV4
Finding a versatile vehicle to handle your lifestyle provides many options. Our new Subaru retailer in Saint Johnsbury, VT has a standout option for many shoppers: the 2026 Subaru Forester. We can show you how the new Forester comes out ahead of top competitors like the 2026 Toyota RAV4.
Explore our comparison to see what makes the 2026 Forester the right choice from Saint J Subaru.
Performance
A dependable driving experience makes the 2026 Forester a popular choice for unpredictable weather near Lyndonville, VT. Standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive keeps you surefooted in slippery conditions and loose terrain. The 2.5-liter engine offers up to 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque.
The 2026 RAV4 limits you to a hybrid powertrain. While it offers more horsepower, it doesn't match the torque of a new Forester. The new Toyota SUV comes standard with front-wheel drive, so you have to upgrade to get all-wheel drive.
Design and Comfort
Having a spacious cabin can accommodate anything on your calendar. The 2026 Forester from our Subaru retailer serving Littleton, NH, offers up to 110.8 cubic feet of passenger space and between 29.6 and 74.4 cubic feet of cargo space. Legroom exceeds 43 inches for the front seats and 39 inches in the rear.
While the RAV4 is in the same SUV category as the Forester, it doesn't offer as much interior space. The 2026 RAV4 passenger space only reaches 98.9 cubic feet. Cargo space falls below what the new Subaru Forester offers, making it a less capable option for weekend adventures through Bethlehem, NH.
Connectivity and Technology
Staying connected to your favorite media can be easy in the 2026 Subaru Forester. The base trim has a 7.0-inch multimedia screen, with upgraded trims including an 11.6-inch screen. The system controls media, settings, and dual-zone climate control through intuitive menus.
You'll find many similar systems in the 2026 RAV4. It also boasts dual-zone climate control, can be upgraded to include wireless device charging, and has a large infotainment screen. The RAV4 does not integrate the screen into its design as well as the Forester does.
Driver Assistance and Safety
Every 2026 Subaru Forester includes Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. This suite of safety features provides an all-encompassing view of your surroundings. You can upgrade to include the DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation System to ensure your attention stays where it needs to be.
Toyota Safety Senseâ„¢ 4.0 features include many similarities to the new Subaru. Both models include Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, and an available attention monitor.
Off-Road Capabilities
The 2026 Forester, especially the Forester Wilderness, shines when you get it off the pavement. Ground clearance ranges from 8.7 to 9.3 inches. Every trim includes raised roof rails to bring large gear or dirty items that you don't want in the cabin. X-MODE® enhances off-road driving by adjusting engine output, transmission ratio, and more.
With less ground clearance and front-wheel drive, the 2026 RAV4 is not as capable when it comes to off-roading. Even the RAV4 Woodland trim does not offer as much ground clearance as the base trim of the new Subaru Forester.
Schedule Your New Subaru Forester Test Drive Today
Getting into a 2026 Subaru Forester can highlight all the benefits it has over the 2026 RAV4. Our experts can walk you through each trim to find one tailored to your needs, ensuring you can find a comfortable cabin, powerful performance, and advanced technology.
Explore all our new Subaru models for sale near Newport, VT to decide which should make it to your driveway. While the 2026 Forester vs the 2026 RAV4 shows a clear winner, we have many other new Subaru models that can accommodate your needs. See them all to stay confident in the driver's seat.
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Saint J Subaru
664 Memorial Drive
Saint Johnsbury, VT 05819
- Sales: (802) 748-2000
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