2025 Toyota RAV4 LE vs 2026 Subaru Forester Base
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2025.
Full Spec Comparison
RAV4 LE starts at $31,380, $3,015 less. Same 30 MPG. RAV4 LE makes 203 hp (+23).
| Spec | 2025 Toyota RAV4 LE | 2026 Subaru Forester Base |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $31,380 Save $3,015 | $34,395 +$3,015 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L Flat-4 |
| Horsepower | 203 hp +23 hp | 180 hp 23 hp less |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-Spd AT | CVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 2 less | 29 +2 |
| Hwy MPG | 35 +2 | 33 2 less |
| Combined MPG | 30 | 30 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 37.5 cu ft | 29.6 cu ft |
| Screen | 10.5" | 11.6" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | No | No |
| Moonroof | No | No |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,615 lbs | 3,540 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.9" | 105.1" |
| Length | 180.9" | 182.3" |
| Wheels | 17" Steel | 17" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | TSS 2.5 | EyeSight |
RAV4 LE or Forester Base?
Both are competitive. RAV4 LE has a lower entry price. Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2025 Toyota RAV4 LE and 2026 Subaru Forester Base?
Which gets better gas mileage, the RAV4 LE or Forester Base?
Should I buy a 2025 Toyota RAV4 or Subaru Forester?
Which is more reliable, the Toyota RAV4 or Subaru Forester?
Is the Toyota RAV4 bigger than the Subaru Forester?
What is the cost of insurance for the RAV4 LE vs Forester Base?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2025 Toyota RAV4 LE?
Who Should Choose the RAV4 LE
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 LE appeals to buyers who want strong value without overspending. At $31,380, it undercuts the Forester Base by $3,015.
Toyota ownership comes with industry-leading reliability and resale value. Compare more: RAV4 LE vs RAV4 XLE, RAV4 LE vs RAV4 XLE Premium, RAV4 XLE vs RAV4 XLE Premium.
Who Should Choose the Forester Base
The 2026 Subaru Forester Base is the better fit for buyers who value what the Subaru Forester brings to the table.
Subaru's approach to this suv emphasizes a balance of features and value. If that aligns with your priorities, the Forester Base deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $3,015 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Forester Base carries a premium, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the RAV4 LE makes 23 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, larger wheels also contribute. Both are competitive within the suv market, and neither represents a poor value at their respective price points.
What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference
Enthusiast drivers will feel the differences immediately if there's a powertrain gap. A 23 hp difference is noticeable during merging, passing, and hill climbs. Interior differences become apparent on longer trips where seat comfort, noise levels, and tech features matter more.
For buyers who primarily drive in urban and suburban settings under 40 mph, both of these suvs will feel remarkably similar in daily use. The differences surface on road trips, in extreme weather (where heated seats and AWD matter), and during technology-heavy interactions like navigation and phone integration.
When Both Suvs Feel the Same
In a parking lot, at a stoplight, or cruising in light traffic, these two vehicles deliver very similar experiences. Both are modern, safe suvs with contemporary safety suites, decent infotainment, and comfortable cabins. Neither will leave you feeling shortchanged in everyday scenarios.
The choice between Toyota and Subaru often comes down to brand loyalty, dealer experience, and which vehicle simply feels right during a test drive. We recommend driving both back-to-back on the same day — the subtle differences in steering feel, seat position, and visibility are more informative than any spec sheet.