The 2024 Subaru Forester and 2024 Honda CR-V are standout options in the competitive compact SUV market, offering spacious interiors, ample cargo space, and a reputation for value, fuel efficiency, and reliability. Both vehicles are well-equipped to comfortably accommodate up to five passengers, making them practical choices for families, daily commuters, and adventure enthusiasts alike. As consumer preferences continue to shift towards smaller SUVs, these car-based compact crossovers have solidified their positions as the second most popular passenger vehicles in the United States.

Subaru has upped its game with the 2024 Forester, built on the brand's Global Platform. The latest Forester model boasts a quieter and more refined ride, along with improved agility compared to previous iterations. Packed with Subaru's state-of-the-art technology and safety features, the Forester is a versatile SUV that excels in various driving scenarios, from off-road adventures to urban commuting. Its rugged styling and robust capabilities make it a popular choice for those who prioritize outdoor activities and versatility in their vehicle.

On the flip side, the 2024 Honda CR-V offers a contrasting driving experience with its smoother and more polished on-road performance. While the CR-V may not match the Forester's rugged styling, it compensates with a more refined and comfortable interior, making it an attractive option for buyers seeking a blend of comfort and practicality. Both SUVs offer compelling reasons to choose them for your next vehicle purchase. But if you still can't decide between the two, read on to find out more details about these compelling vehicles.

Performance

The 2024 Subaru Forester is an excellent choice in terms of traction and durability. It has a firm upper hand over the 2024 Honda CR-V in these aspects. The Subaru Forester's standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system ensures optimal traction across all terrains, including rough roads, rain, and snow. This vehicle evaluates acceleration, braking, and cornering instantly and ensures that power is consistently delivered to all wheels for a sure-footed ride. It transfers power immediately to the wheels with maximum grip in case a wheel loses traction.

On the other hand, the Honda CR-V's Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System™ only provides additional power to the rear wheels during cornering, which may limit its performance in challenging terrains and conditions.

When it comes to hauling and navigating rough terrains, the 2024 Subaru Forester excels over the Honda CR-V. Subaru Forester towing capacity offers up to 3,000 pounds and an optional accessory Class II hitch receiver, perfect for carrying all essential gear on your next adventure. If ground clearance is a concern for off-road enthusiasts, the Subaru Forester ground clearance offers up to 9.2 inches. In comparison, the 2024 Honda CR-V offers only 8.2 inches of ground clearance.

The Subaru Forester has a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder engine, ensuring ample power for all your drives. Despite its impressive power, it does not compromise on fuel efficiency, delivering up to 33 MPG and over 540 miles of driving range. On the other hand, the Honda CR-V uses a 1.5L turbocharged engine, which falls short in power output compared to the Forester despite its decent performance and a 28 city/34 highway mpg rating.

Interior

The 2024 Subaru Forester and the 2024 Honda CR-V are impressive SUVs offering comfortable, connected, and convenient interiors. However, the Forester stands out with its meticulous attention to detail. Its cabin boasts high-quality materials and stylish contrasting stitches, providing a luxurious feel for up to five passengers in its spacious 111.6 cubic feet. The Forester's spacious cabin is also practical, providing up to 74.2 cubic feet of cargo space, complemented by an extra-wide rear gate opening for easy loading.

When it comes to technology, the Subaru Forester is hard to beat. The SUBARU STARLINK Multimedia system integrates seamlessly with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ for safe and easy connection to apps and content. Wireless Bluetooth® pairing and hands-free smartphone operation make it even more user-friendly. The optional high-resolution 11.6-inch touchscreen and available voice-activated navigation system powered by TomTom® enhance the interface even further. The Forester also offers an upgraded Harman Kardon premium audio system with ten speakers for an unmatched auditory experience.

In comparison, the Honda CR-V has a minimalist cabin layout that includes impressive features like the Bose premium sound system and an optional one-touch power moonroof to enhance passenger enjoyment and comfort. However, compared to the Forester, it's clear that Subaru has taken greater strides in enhancing the in-cabin experience. From advanced multimedia functionality to the convenience of a power rear gate and the luxury of a panoramic moonroof option, the Subaru Forester interior undoubtedly provides a more sophisticated and accommodating environment than its Honda counterpart, making it a better choice for discerning drivers and passengers.

Exterior

The Forester Sport has a rugged and sleek design that radiates boldness. It comes with unique elements such as LED fog lights and 18-inch wheels finished in exclusive black, which add an athletic touch to its persona. Compared to the Honda CR-V's conventional dual-low-beam LED headlights, the Forester Sport stands out with its stunning design. The roof rack tie-down points contribute to the Forester's robust appeal and testify to its practicality and versatility.

Unlike the Honda CR-V, which has a 'sporty' roofline to accentuate its rugged look, the Forester Sport takes a step ahead by incorporating a Sport-specific tuning for SI-DRIVE® and dual-function X-MODE® technology. This makes the Forester dynamic and ready for any conditions, reaffirming Subaru's commitment to performance paired with style. While the CR-V does offer visually pleasing features like the modern edge brought by the distinct vertical taillights, the Forester Sport's 18-inch alloy wheels and aggressive design exude a more athletic aura.

Safety Technology

The 2024 Subaru Forester has advanced safety features that enhance driver assistance and collision prevention. The EyeSight Driver Assist Technology acts as an extra set of eyes and foot on the road and offers advanced active safety systems that can maintain a safe distance and control steering, braking, and throttle. This technology relieves drivers from the stress of everyday driving. On the other hand, the Honda CR-V uses the Honda Sensing Suite for similar purposes but falls short in comparison to the Forester's advanced features.

The Forester offers Automatic Emergency Steering, which can intervene to avoid collisions, while Honda only offers a Collision Mitigation Braking System that alerts and assists drivers but does not provide automatic braking. The Forester's Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering makes long commutes effortless by maintaining a safe distance and assisting in steering and braking. The CR-V has the Road Departure Mitigation System to guide drivers back safely into their lanes in case of drifting, but the Forester's tech is a touch more comprehensive.

Moreover, the Forester's safety suite includes features like Blind-Spot Detection, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Reverse Automatic Braking. It also has the award-winning DriverFocus system, which alerts drivers when they become distracted or drowsy. It can customize utilities like seat position, climate settings, and mirror position for up to five drivers. These features, complemented with seven airbags and a highly robust platform built with high-strength steel, ensure that safety is never compromised while driving the 2024 Subaru Forester.

The Verdict

The 2024 Subaru Forester clearly sets the benchmark in the compact SUV segment, outclassing the 2024 Honda CR-V with its impressive all-terrain capabilities, robust safety technology, and superior comfort and convenience. The Forester's standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, higher towing capacity, and greater ground clearance provide unparalleled performance and utility for adventurous spirits. Meanwhile, its thoughtful interior design, enhanced by cutting-edge technology features, offers occupants an unmatched blend of luxury and convenience. When it comes to safety, Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology and the comprehensive suite of driver aids stand a notch above, granting drivers increased confidence behind the wheel. With its combination of style, comfort, performance, and safety, the 2024 Subaru Forester is the best choice for those seeking a vehicle that excellently balances daily commuting with the call of the wild.

Categories: Pre-Owned Inventory