Which Is the Best Hybrid SUV? Honda CR-V Hybrid vs. Subaru Forester Hybrid

Happy to see the Forester finally get the Hybrid treatment

Both are excellent in their own ways, though I think the Forester would be best appreciated by those who already own a Subaru and want to stick with them.

I've had 3 Subarus. In December 2023, I bought a 2024 CRV Hybrid. Why? Subaru didn't have one and I wasn't going to wait months for a RAV4 Hybrid. Since the CRV Hybrid is made down here in Ontario, every dealer had some. Now that I've had it almost 18 months, I love it. With my Subarus, had to bring it in every 6 months or 10,000 km for service. Since my CRV has a battery, the engine does not always activate so the logic behind the 6m/10K servicing doesn't apply. Honda uses oil life to determine servicing. Begins at 100% and drops 'depending' how much the engine activates. I had my 1st oil change after 10 months with still 30% oil life left indicated. I am now sitting at 40% so I expect to make an appointment for the following month when I get to 20% (which I expect to be August/Sept). So, no required servicing for almost a year. That's a big deal, time wise and in $$$. After my 1st oil change, the service department said they'll see me in a year. So will Subaru maintain their 6m/10K serving requirement for their hybrids? Also, my CRV is rated for better mileage. Rear doors open 90 degrees. It also has a mechanical rear drive train, no electric motors like the RAV4 although the Subaru Symmetrical drive train is superior.

I bought a Honda hybrid sport touring. I bought it because this was the only way I could get a Bose sound system---and the difference is profound! ! Things I miss on the CR-V: wrap around rear view mirror, ventilated seats, body trims, included rear compartment blind. I also found the Honda seats much more comfortable. Enjoyed your eval.

The Forester Hybrid is the best version of that SUV we've ever tested, but the established CR-V Hybrid has its rabid fans too. If you still prefer the Forester, let us know why in the comments below! And yes, "because I love my Subaru" is a valid answer.

Both are great vehicles in this SUV segment. I did a test drive in both of them and they feel nice tondrive, and comfortable. I decided to get my 2025 Honda CR-V Sport L Hybrid AWD and I don't regret my decision. After 1 year driving it, I have done some road trips to Chicago, Green Bay, Detroit, Montréal, and Wilmington. It runs smooth, has decent power, great gas mileage, comfy, great in snowy winters, and good space.

Those soft buttons in the Subaru would drive me nuts. And the laggy hardware. The CRV has real buttons and the infotainment doesn't lag much at all.

For those that must park in the city, Subaru can be had with 360 camera. And ventilated seats for hot climates. Not necessarily deal breaking features, but once you’ve had a car with them it’s hard to give them up.

The top level of the Forester Hybrid (the touring) is so much nicer than the CR-V touring. You feel like you are driving a luxury car!

The reason I’m considering Cr-V is because my Crosstrek needs major repairs too early—A/C, engine coolant and oil leaks, cam carrier. It’s only 9 years old. I love my car, especially Subaru’s AWD and EyeSight, but hope it doesn’t need this many repairs this early in its life.