2025 Subaru Forester vs. 2025 Honda CR-V and 2025 Toyota RAV4
If you're shopping for a compact SUV near Portsmouth, NH, the 2025 Subaru Forester should be at the top of your list. With a complete redesign for 2025, the Forester offers more advanced tech, a refined cabin, and superior off-road capability. But how does it compare to top rivals like the 2025 Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4? Below, we break down how these three SUVs stack up in design, performance, interior features, safety, and value.
Design
The 2025 Forester debuts its sixth generation with a boxier, more rugged exterior that stands out in Dover and Exeter, NH. Subaru's updated styling includes LED headlights and functional roof rails standard across all trims. Meanwhile, the 2025 Honda CR-V maintains a conservative design carried over from 2023, and the RAV4's styling-unchanged since 2019-now feels outdated despite its bold front end. If you're looking for modern, outdoor-ready aesthetics that match New England's adventurous spirit, the Forester takes the lead.
Performance
The 2025 Subaru Forester delivers confident and capable performance designed for life in New England. Every Forester comes standard with Subaru's legendary symmetrical all-wheel drive, making it a natural choice for snowy winters in York, ME or unpaved backroads in Somersworth, NH. Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, paired with a smooth continuously variable transmission (CVT) for responsive driving. New for 2025 is the Forester Hybrid, offering improved fuel economy without sacrificing capability. Whether you're commuting through Dover or heading out for a weekend adventure near Portsmouth, the Forester adapts easily to any environment.
By comparison, the 2025 Honda CR-V offers a 190-horsepower turbocharged engine and a hybrid option with 204 horsepower, but all-wheel drive is optional on most trims. This adds cost and limits confidence in unpredictable New England weather. The 2025 Toyota RAV4 features a slightly more powerful 203-horsepower engine, but lacks the ride refinement and steering precision of the Forester. Its vague handling and firm suspension don't match Subaru's well-balanced driving dynamics. If you're seeking a small SUV with standard all-wheel drive, comfortable ride quality, and practical power, the Forester leads the segment.
Technology, Interior, and Cargo Space
Inside, the Forester surrounds you with smart technology and flexible comfort. The available 11.6-inch touchscreen offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while higher trims feature a premium Harman Kardon sound system. Dual-zone climate control, heated seats, and a panoramic sunroof elevate the cabin experience, whether you're navigating Portsmouth traffic or cruising along the coast from Exeter. Rear passengers enjoy spacious seating with reclining seatbacks, and the Forester's wide cargo area and one-touch folding rear seats simplify loading up. Compared to the 2025 Honda CR-V and RAV4, the Forester offers a more refined cabin, intuitive tech, and class-leading practicality for Newington-area drivers.
Safety Features
Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is standard across all Forester trims. You get features like adaptive cruise control, lane centering, frontal collision mitigation, and a new driver attention warning system. Higher trims add blind-spot detection and surround-view cameras. The 2025 Honda CR-V and RAV4 also come with strong safety packages, but only the Forester offers all-wheel drive standard with all these features-an important edge for drivers in Rochester, Portsmouth, and beyond who prioritize all-season safety.
Buy or Lease a 2025 Subaru Forester in Newington, NH
Whether you're coming from Rochester or crossing the Maine border from York, you'll find unbeatable value and service at our Newington Subaru dealership. We offer a full lineup of new 2025 Forester models, including gas and hybrid variants, with competitive financing and lease deals to fit your budget. Looking for a dependable compact SUV that excels in all seasons and driving conditions? Visit our showroom at McGovern Subaru and discover why more drivers from Exeter, Dover, and Somersworth are choosing the Subaru Forester over the 2025 Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.
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McGovern Subaru
85 Gosling Rd
Newington, NH 03801
- Sales: 603-758-7600
