Subaru Forester vs. the Competition

The 2025 Subaru Forester vs. Honda CR-V and Nissan Rogue: A Versatile Contender in the Compact SUV Realm

The 2025 Subaru Forester stands as a beacon of capability, versatility, and rugged charm in the fiercely competitive compact SUV segment. Subaru's renowned commitment to utility and innovation shines brightly in this latest iteration of the Forester, but how does it stack up against two formidable rivals-the Honda CR-V and the Nissan Rogue? Let's explore how the 2025 Forester compares to these models in design, performance, features, and overall value.

2025 Subaru Forester

2025 Honda CR-V

Seating Capacity

5 | 5

2025 Subaru Forester vs. Honda CR-V

Engine power

 180 hp @ 5,800 rpm | 190 hp @ 6,000 rpm

2025 Subaru Forester vs. Honda CR-V

Fuel economy - City/Hwy/Combined MPG

 26 / 33 / 29 MPG | 26 / 31 / 28 MPG

2025 Subaru Forester vs. Honda CR-V

Forester vs. Honda CR-V: Designed for Adventure

The Honda CR-V, with its urbane styling and hybrid powertrain options, has long been celebrated as a family-friendly SUV. However, when juxtaposed with the 2025 Subaru Forester, the CR-V's appeal begins to waver, particularly for those who seek off-road prowess around Loveland, CO.


  • Engine Reliability: Both models feature efficient four-cylinder engines, but Subaru's legendary BOXER® engine provides a lower center of gravity, enhancing stability and handling in corners. The Rogue's 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine may be fuel-efficient but lacks the same smoothness and reliability under demanding conditions.
  • EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology: Subaru's advanced suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking, remains standard on every Forester. While the Rogue offers similar technologies, some features are relegated to higher trims, making them less accessible to budget-conscious buyers near Estes Park.
  • Visibility: Subaru continues to prioritize visibility in the Forester with its expansive windows and slim A-pillars. This design philosophy provides a commanding view of the road, which is an area where the Rogue's more coupe-like styling compromises function for form.

While the CR-V's hybrid efficiency may appeal to city drivers, the Forester's outdoorsy spirit and off-road capability position it as the quintessential SUV for explorers around Fort Collins.


2025 Subaru Forester

2025 Nissan Rogue

Seating Capacity

5 | 5

2025 Subaru Forester vs. Nissan Rogue

Engine power

 180 hp @ 5,800 rpm | 201 hp @ 5,600 rpm

2025 Subaru Forester vs. Nissan Rogue

Fuel economy - City/Hwy/Combined MPG

 26 / 33 / 29 MPG | 30 / 37 / 33 MPG

2025 Subaru Forester vs. Nissan Rogue

Forester vs. Nissan Rogue: Safety and Practicality in Focus

The Nissan Rogue has garnered attention for its sleek exterior design and cutting-edge technology. However, the 2025 Forester offers a level of practicality and safety that the Rogue struggles to match.


  • Engine Reliability: Both models feature efficient four-cylinder engines, but Subaru's legendary BOXER® engine provides a lower center of gravity, enhancing stability and handling in corners. The Rogue's 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine may be fuel-efficient but lacks the same smoothness and reliability under demanding conditions.
  • EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology: Subaru's advanced suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking, remains standard on every Forester. While the Rogue offers similar technologies, some features are relegated to higher trims, making them less accessible to budget-conscious buyers near Estes Park.
  • Visibility: Subaru continues to prioritize visibility in the Forester with its expansive windows and slim A-pillars. This design philosophy provides a commanding view of the road, which is an area where the Rogue's more coupe-like styling compromises function for form.

While the Rogue's modern styling and interior materials are commendable, the Forester's balance of safety, reliability, and user-friendly design makes it a standout choice for practicality-minded buyers.

Performance and Capability: Forester Leads the Pack

The 2025 Subaru Forester's performance goes beyond specs, offering a driving experience tailored for those who crave adventure without sacrificing everyday usability around Windsor.


  • Powertrain and Efficiency: The Forester is equipped with a 2.5-liter BOXER® engine that delivers 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. While not the most powerful in the segment, its fuel economy of up to 33 mpg on the highway rivals that of the CR-V Hybrid and Nissan Rogue. Subaru's linear power delivery ensures smooth acceleration, ideal for both city commutes and mountain treks.
  • Towing Capacity: With the available towing package, the Forester can tow up to 1,500 pounds through Johnstown. While this figure matches the Rogue, the CR-V's towing capacity lags behind at 1,000 pounds.
  • Trail-Ready Features: The Wilderness trim, a favorite among off-road enthusiasts, adds upgraded skid plates, all-terrain tires, and enhanced X-MODE® settings, making the Forester a class leader for rugged exploration.

Interior and Technology: Comfort Meets Functionality

Inside, the 2025 Subaru Forester embodies Subaru's ethos of delivering practical, comfortable interiors without unnecessary frills.


  • Material Quality: The Forester offers durable materials designed to withstand wear and tear, particularly in trims like the Wilderness, which feature water-resistant upholstery. While the CR-V and Rogue might offer a more polished cabin, the Forester's focus on longevity makes it a smart choice for families and explorers.
  • Infotainment: Subaru's STARLINK® Multimedia system comes equipped with an 11.6-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay®, Android Autoâ„¢, and available wireless charging. The CR-V and Rogue offer comparable systems, but the intuitive interface of STARLINK® stands out for its ease of use.
  • Room to Stretch: With ample legroom in both rows and reclining rear seats, the Forester prioritizes passenger comfort. While the CR-V and Rogue are similarly spacious, the Forester's taller roofline contributes to an airier cabin feel.

The Verdict: Why the 2025 Subaru Forester Wins

Schedule a test drive at Subaru of Loveland near Berthoud and experience the 2025 Subaru Forester's unparalleled balance of form and function today.