Are You the Type Of Person That Should Get a Honda CR-V or a Subaru Forester?
The 2020 Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester are two of the best-selling compact SUVs of the year. And even though this model year is winding down, you can still get your hands on a brand new 2020 version of either SUV. Both vehicles offer unique features, but is the CR-V or the Forester right for you?
What the 2020 Honda CR-V does well
Honda’s CR-V is one of the most appealing options in the compact SUV class. The CR-V earns praise for its refinement, efficiency, and comfort. Plus, the CR-V has a strong history of dependability.
The 2020 CR-V gets its power from a 190-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine linked to a continuously variable automatic transmission. Critics like Consumer Reports enjoy the CR-V for its responsive handling and smoothness. Additionally, the CR-V accelerates rather quickly, and it’s fuel-efficient too.
According to CR, the CR-V has a real-world fuel economy of 28 mpg overall. This figure is above-average for the class. What makes this Honda more compelling is that it’s available as a hybrid. The hybridized CR-V returned 35 mpg overall in CR’s road test.
The CR-V gets points for its upscale feeling cabin, too. It has one of the largest interiors in its class and seats up to five. This Honda also offers many useful storage options and a generous trunk area. You’ll also appreciate the CR-V for its standard safety features, including traffic sign recognition and adaptive cruise control.
What the 2020 Subaru Forester does well
Like the CR-V, the Forester is a popular choice for those who want a practical, everyday SUV. However, few distinctions might make you gravitate toward the Forester. For starters, this Subie is the more adventure-ready option.
Most SUVs like the CR-V have all-wheel-drive as an option, but the Forester is one of the few that is standard with AWD. The Forester’s AWD and 8.7 inches of ground clearance contribute to its mild off-roading chops. This Subaru is also available with hill descent control and X-mode, which helps challenging road conditions.
Furthermore, the Forester’s AWD drivetrain doesn’t sacrifice its fuel economy. CR also recorded 28 mpg overall in the Forester’s road test. However, the main drawback of the Forester’s performance is that it’s not as quick as the CR-V.
The Forester is also a great choice if you value in-car tech. Unlike the CR-V, the Forester comes standard with a modern infotainment system that has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Subaru’s Eyesight driver assistance technology is standard on the Forester and includes lane departure and sway warning.
Making a final decision
A 2020 CR-V begins at $25,150 and a 2020 Forester starts at $24,495. Both models have received excellent ratings and are family-friendly. Still, the Forester’s primary advantage is its value. It’s a little cheaper than the CR-V and comes with more in-car tech and is standard with AWD. However, the CR-V hybrid option makes it unique. And unlike the Forester, the CR-V is mostly likely to last 200,000 miles or more.
