2025 Honda CR-V EX-L vs 2025 Subaru Forester Premium
On paper, the 2025 Subaru Forester Premium wins on $3,115 less. The 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 190 vs 180 hp, 28 vs 29 MPG.
The Forester Premium leads on $3,115 less. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L | 2025 Subaru Forester Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,500 | $33,385 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 190 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 179 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 33 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.0 gal | 16.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,550/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,635 lbs | 3,569 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.3" | 105.1" |
| Length | 184.8" | 183.3" |
| Width | 73.5" | 72.0" |
| Height | 66.5" | 68.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L and 2025 Subaru Forester Premium?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Premium starts at $33,385, $3,115 less than the 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L at $36,500. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $55/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L?
The 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L is the stronger pick when you prefer the Honda approach to the compact SUV segment.
Who should choose the 2025 Subaru Forester Premium?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Premium is the stronger pick when you want to keep $3,115 in your pocket and the 2025 Subaru Forester Premium covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $52/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L or 2025 Subaru Forester Premium?
The 2025 Subaru Forester Premium rates 29 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L or 2025 Subaru Forester Premium?
The 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L produces 190 hp, 10 more than the 2025 Subaru Forester Premium at 180 hp. The 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L also leads in torque at 179 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Subaru Forester Premium uses a 2.5L flat 4.
Is the 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L bigger than the 2025 Subaru Forester Premium?
The 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L is 1.5″ longer at 184.8″ vs 183.3″. The 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L has a 1.2″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Honda trims, Honda CR-V trims, Subaru trims, Subaru Forester trims
How the CR-V and Forester Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L ($36,500) and 2025 Subaru Forester Premium ($33,385) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-3,115 gap adds up to $55/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: CR-V vs Forester
The 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Subaru Forester Premium uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 10 hp difference (190 vs 180) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2025 Subaru Forester Premium saves roughly $52/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $260.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Honda CR-V EX-L when you prefer the Honda approach to the compact SUV segment. Choose the 2025 Subaru Forester Premium when you want to keep $3,115 in your pocket and the 2025 Subaru Forester Premium covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Honda or Subaru or any dealership.