Subaru Forester vs Toyota RAV4 in Ellsworth, ME
Subaru Forester vs. Toyota RAV4 in Ellsworth, ME
Both the Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4 remain popular crossover SUVs here in southern Maine for many good reasons, among them their fetching styling, go-anywhere performance, great fuel efficiency ratings, and loads of appealing features. At Stanley Subaru, we've made it easy to compare models; you can learn more from the experts at our dealership in Ellsworth, ME.
Performance
The Subaru Forester is purpose-built to handle confidently, both in Bangor, ME traffic and foul New England weather, thanks to its 180-horsepower, 2.5-liter, flat four-cylinder SUBARU BOXER engine and standard Subaru Symmetrical all-wheel drivetrain (AWD). The Toyota RAV4 features a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine capable of 226 to 236 horsepower, but AWD isn't standard on the base LE, step-up SE, or midrange XLE Premium trims. It's only standard on the top-of-the-line Woodland, XSE, and Limited trims.
Technology
A voice-activated 7.0-inch multimedia infotainment system with navigation, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto comes standard in base Forester trims. Step up to the Forester Premium to get an 11.6-inch system with 4G LTE and Wi-Fi capability. Both models have dedicated physical climate control buttons and knobs, which are easier to adjust while driving. The RAV4 is comparably equipped, offering a choice of 10.5- and 12.9-inch infotainment systems, but more features are screen-accessible, which can be distracting to navigate in traffic.
Interior Features & Comfort
Every Forester is comfortable on long trips out of Bar Harbor, ME, seating up to five passengers in a capacious, 106.6-to-110.8-cubic-foot cabin. Base trims feature plush cloth upholstery, the midrange Sport trim features durable StarTex surfaces, and the range-topping Limited trim features sumptuous leather-trimmed seats. An All-Weather Package with heated front seats comes standard in the Premium trim. Fold all seats, and you can take advantage of 69.1 to 74.4 cubic feet of cargo space.
The RAV4 is similarly outfitted, with a choice of cloth, SofTex synthetic leather, or a blend. Still, leather is unavailable, and the SUV offers only 98.9 cubic feet of passenger space and 70.4 cubic feet of cargo space.
Exterior Design & Utility
Every Forester commands attention on the road and off with a boxy silhouette and hard-wearing protective body cladding that says, "trail-ready." Its 8.7 inches of ground clearance enables easily avoiding rocks and downed trees outside of Blue Hill, ME.
Toyota RAV4, in contrast, is sporty rather than rugged, with sharp, performance-inspired linework, a striking front grille, and a dual exhaust. These features suggest that it's more of a commuter and city driver than an off-roader. It also offers only 8.1 inches of ground clearance, making it less prepared to dodge obstacles on tough terrain.
Safety & Driver-Assistance Features
With standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, every Forester comes ready to both protect you and your loved ones in Trenton, ME, traffic. The suite features advanced adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and lane departure and sway warnings, plus pre-collision brakes, auto emergency steering, and lane keep assist. A DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System comes standard on the top-of-the-line model, and it's exclusive; the RAV4 may have a similar driver aid, Toyota Safety Sense, but nothing like DriverFocus.
Which Model Is Right for You?
Both compact SUVs have their merits. However, when it comes to durability, capability, interior space, and technological ease of use, it's the Subaru Forester that pulls ahead, offering the ideal balance of adventure-ready features at an exceptional value.
Why Buy from Stanley Subaru?
- Customer service excellence. Our salespeople certify as Subaru experts annually under the auspices of Subaru of New England and the Maine Automobile Dealers Association. When we put our years of auto-industry experience to work to give you a comprehensive tour of the model you prefer, you'll see our difference immediately.
- Tires for Life 2.0. We offer no-cost tire replacements on all new Subaru vehicles for as long as our customers own them. We'll help yours stay on the road for many miles to come.
- Certified Subaru service. When your investment requires routine maintenance or repairs, the factory-trained and certified technicians that staff our Subaru service department will be there to help.
Subaru Forester vs. Toyota RAV4 FAQs
What are the torque ratings of the Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4?
The Subaru Forester produces 178 pound-feet of torque. The Toyota RAV4 produces only 163 to 170 pound-feet of torque. That means the Forester accelerates more dependably, making it arguably better at ascending hills, merging, and changing lanes.
What are the fuel economy ratings of the Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4?
Both models are among the most efficient in the segment. The Subaru Forester achieves up to 33 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, according to EPA estimates. Similar Toyota RAV4 models with AWD get anywhere from 41 to 43 mpg city and 35 to 37 mpg highway, but they require a larger investment.
How much can the Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4 tow?
Subaru Forester base trims can tow up to 1,500 pounds. Opt for the Subaru Forester Wilderness, and you can tow up to 3,500 pounds. The Toyota RAV4 base trim can tow up to 1,750 pounds. Choose a RAV4 trim with AWD, and you can tow up to 3,500 pounds. Both models can easily transport everything from pop-up or teardrop campers and small utility trailers to ATVs, UTVs, and light fishing boats. Still, the Forester is better prepared for off-grid hauling, with standard Symmetrical AWD and higher ground clearance.
Do you offer Subaru Forester financing?
Yes. Our finance department will work with our wide lending network to help you acquire an ideal rate with agreeable terms, whether you plan to purchase or lease a new Subaru Forester or another model in our new Subaru inventory. We recommend starting the application process at home before you visit; it'll save you time during your test drive. Explore special offers and incentives, value your trade, apply for credit, and more, right here online.
Find Your Dream Forester Today at Stanley Subaru
Want to get to know the Forester you've always imagined driving? The best way to do it is behind the wheel, and the best place to do it is here at your local Ellsworth, ME Subaru dealer. We're sure you'll agree you're in for an exciting ride. Get in touch with us now to schedule your test drive. We'll be excited to show you everything the SUV offers.
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Stanley Subaru
22 Bar Harbor Road
Ellsworth, ME 04605
- Sales: 207-667-4641
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