Toyota RAV4 vs Subaru Forester
Two of Australia's favourite mid-size family SUVs. The RAV4 wins on efficiency and resale (especially the hybrid); the Forester wins on all-weather grip and visibility.
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Toyota RAV4 is better for…
- ✓Excellent hybrid economy and demand
- ✓Very strong resale value
- ✓Proven Toyota reliability
Subaru Forester is better for…
- ✓Full-time AWD is superb in the wet and light off-road
- ✓Great visibility and practical cabin
- ✓Loyal owner base
The verdict
Do lots of highway and city km and want economy plus resale? RAV4 Hybrid. Live somewhere wet, hilly or unsealed? The Forester's AWD earns its keep. On older Foresters, check the head gasket; on high-km RAV4s, check the hybrid battery.
Full guides: Toyota RAV4 problems & checks · Subaru Forester problems & checks
Frequently asked questions
Is the RAV4 or Forester better for the snow/wet?
The Forester's full-time symmetrical AWD is excellent in the wet, snow and on light trails. The RAV4 is capable but the Forester has the edge in genuinely slippery conditions.
Which holds value better?
The RAV4, especially the hybrid, has very strong resale and demand. The Forester holds value well too, particularly with outdoorsy buyers.
Found a Toyota RAV4 or Subaru Forester you like?
Paste the listing and get the risks, fair price and inspection checklist for that exact car.
General comparison for Australian buyers — not a PPSR check, mechanical inspection, or guarantee about any specific car. Always run the exact listing through Beforehand and arrange a pre-purchase inspection.