2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium vs 2026 Subaru Forester Sport
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
RAV4 XLE Premium starts at $38,800, $95 less. RAV4 XLE Premium leads with 39 MPG. RAV4 XLE Premium makes 219 hp (+39).
| Spec | 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium | 2026 Subaru Forester Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $38,800 Save $95 | $38,895 +$95 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L Hybrid | 2.5L Flat-4 |
| Horsepower | 219 hp +39 hp | 180 hp 39 hp less |
| Torque | 163 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT | CVT |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 41 +12 | 29 12 less |
| Hwy MPG | 38 +5 | 33 5 less |
| Combined MPG | 39 +9 | 30 9 less |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 37.5 cu ft | 29.6 cu ft |
| Screen | 12.3" | 11.6" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Yes | Yes |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,790 lbs | 3,610 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.9" | 105.1" |
| Length | 181.5" | 182.3" |
| Wheels | 19" Alloy | 18" Black |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | TSS 3.0 | EyeSight |
RAV4 XLE Premium or Forester Sport?
Both are competitive. RAV4 XLE Premium has a lower entry price, RAV4 XLE Premium leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium and 2026 Subaru Forester Sport?
Which gets better gas mileage, the RAV4 XLE Premium or Forester Sport?
Should I buy a 2026 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 XLE Premium vs Forester Sport?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium?
Who Should Choose the RAV4 XLE Premium
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 XLE Premium appeals to buyers who want strong value without overspending. At $38,800, it undercuts the Forester Sport by $95.
Fuel economy is a clear strength here — 39 combined MPG means lower running costs over the life of the vehicle. Toyota ownership comes with industry-leading reliability and resale value. Compare more: RAV4 LE vs RAV4 XLE, RAV4 LE vs RAV4 XLE Premium, RAV4 LE vs RAV4 Adventure.
Who Should Choose the Forester Sport
The 2026 Subaru Forester Sport 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 Sport deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $95 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Forester Sport carries a premium, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the RAV4 XLE Premium makes 39 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 39 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.