The 2020 Jeep Cherokee gets credit for being the most capable vehicle in the compact SUV class. But drivers shouldn’t overlook the 2020 Subaru Forester as an adventure-ready SUV. Getting a Jeep or a Subaru automatically admits you into a unique community, but there are few reasons why you should consider the Forester over the Cherokee. 

The Subaru Forester is a well-balanced performer 

The Cherokee is easy enough to drive for your daily commutes, but the Forester is an exceptionally comfortable ride. There’s only one engine option for the 2020 Forester: a 182-horsepower.2.5-liter four-cylinder engine linked to a continuously variable automatic transmission. This isn’t the peppiest combination, but the Forester can accelerate adequately, and it feels responsive. 

What makes the Forester a standout is that it comes standard with all-wheel-drive. On top of this, the Forester is also impressive in regards to fuel efficiency The Forester has a real-world fuel economy of a combined 28 mpg. Because of this, Consumer Reports recognizes the Forester a fantastic, “no-nonsense” SUV. CR also says the Forester provides the best driver’s visibility of any new vehicle.

And while it doesn’t have the same off-roading chops as the Cherokee, the Forester is capable enough for moderate off-roading. Critics praise the Forester for its remarkable ground clearance. Those most interested in going off-road with their Forester will want to opt for the upper-level trims with X-MODE.

The Forester offers a picturesque cabin 

The Forester indeed provides excellent driver’s visibility, but there isn’t a bad seat in the house. The Forester’s quiet cabin makes riding in it even better, and its standard cloth upholstery is high-quality. If you’re looking for a grander experience, you’ll want to explore the upper-level trims. The Premium trim comes with leather-trimmed seats and amenities, including a dual-zone automatic climate control system.

Like the Cherokee, the Forester comes with a modern infotainment system with satellite radio, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. However, the Forester offers more advanced safety equipment compared to the Cherokee. The Forester is standard with a rear-seat reminder, pre-collision braking, and lane-departure warning. You would have to upgrade for features like these on the Cherokee. 

The Forester presents a better value 

The base prices for the Forester and the Cherokee aren’t too far off. The Forester starts at $24,495, and the Cherokee starts at $25,840. Even so, a base Forester is more well-rounded than a base Cherokee. 

The Cherokee’s standard engine is lackluster, so you’d have to upgrade for a livelier experience. Its fuel economy ratings are also average, and it doesn’t come with AWD either.

With the Forester, you get an engaging driving experience, standard AWD, and fuel efficiency. This Subaru also has a remarkably spacious cabin and convenient cargo space. Additionally, the Forester gives you plenty of desirable in-car electronics. If cost-efficiency is among your top priorities and you aren’t interested in extreme off-roading, the Forester is the way to go.