Honda HR-V vs Subaru Forester

When it comes to trips to the office, you’ll find the HR-V and the Forester provide a smooth, enjoyable commute. This is thanks to the durable 4-cylinder engines found under the hood of each model, as well as their Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVT).

Another perk of driving either SUV is their impressive fuel efficiency. Their standard ranges are similar, but it’s the Honda HR-V that has a slight edge thanks to its standard Eco Assist™ system. This feature provides real-time driving feedback to let you know how efficiently you’re traveling. When the ambient light bar turns green, you know you’re making performance decisions that may lead to an optimized driving range, which could lead to less time spent at the pump.

With a great wide world out there waiting to be explored, you need an SUV that delivers on all types of terrain. Luckily, both the Honda HR-V and the Subaru Forester excel on low-friction surfaces thanks to their standard and optional all-wheel drive options.

Each system uses sensors to constantly scan the road ahead, making on-the-fly adjustments so torque is distributed to the wheels that need it most. As a result, you’ll feel confident when traversing rocky or dirt roads.

Where these models differ is with the Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist features of the HR-V. The former feature provides more assurance when traveling down a slope, while the latter reduces roll-back when stopped on a hill while transferring your foot from the brake to the accelerator. Forester drivers can equip their SUV with Hill Descent Control, but that’s only on select higher trim models.

Climbing into the driver’s seat, you’ll sink into the plush cloth-upholstered seats and feel any lingering tension from the day melt. This boost of relaxation is streamlined when either model is equipped with optional heated front seats.

An available leather-wrapped steering wheel further boosts comfort and sophistication to your home away from home.

Your view from the driver’s seat is full of a geometric, honeycomb-style design that adds a modern touch to your Honda HR-V. Subaru Forester drivers, on the other hand, will have access to a more simplified dashboard without any specialty designs.

In addition to comfort amenities, you’ll have various technological features at your disposal to help make your commute more fun and exciting. Some of the features you’ll find with both SUVs includes Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™ integration and four speakers.

This is where the similarities between models start and end when comparing entertainment features.

If you want more entertainment features, the Honda HR-V is the SUV you should choose.

Cameras and sensors are placed around your SUV and provide alerts to potential hazards you may have missed. With the HR-V and the Forester, you’ll find similar standard and available features, including:

• Forward Collision Warning
• Lane Keeping Assist System
• Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Monitor

While these features help provide 360 degrees of monitoring, the Honda HR-V goes above and beyond with the addition of Traffic Jam Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition System. While both features are standard with Honda, neither is offered with Subaru.

When you’ve arrived at your destination, you’ll find it’s easy to back into your driveway or parking spot thanks to the rear vision camera found with each SUV. However, you’ll find more views with the Honda HR-V, which offers a multi-angle rearview camera on all trim levels.

While the Subaru Forester has an available 180-Degree Front-View Monitor, it isn’t available on the first three trims. If you want the best views, even on the base trim, the Honda HR-V is the better choice.