2019 Subaru Forester vs. 2019 Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road: Which Is Best On and Off the Road?
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- čas přidán 2. 08. 2024
- Edmunds editors Travis Langness and Calvin Kim take the new Subaru Forester and Toyota 4Runner on a trip to the local mountains to showcase each vehicle's strengths and weaknesses on and off the road. It's all to answer the pressing question: Does the car industry's near ideal crossover have what it takes to challenge Toyota's very definition of an SUV? How do these two fare on the roads that real people drive every day? How are they when asphalt turns to dirt? Find out as we answer these questions!
Q: How much power do the 2019 Subaru Forester Touring and the 2019 Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road make?
A: The Forester is available with a 2.5-liter flat-four that makes 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. The 4Runner comes with a 4.0-liter V6 that produces 270 hp and 278 lb-ft of torque.
Q: How do these cars work?
A: The Forester is equipped with a continuously variable automatic transmission, while the 4Runner uses a five-speed automatic. While both drive all four wheels, they do it very differently. The Forester uses a variable clutch system to engage and disengage the rear wheels as traction is needed in conjunction with active brake control to limit wheelspin. The 4Runner can send its power to just the rear wheels for routine street driving or engage H4 to mechanically connect the front wheels to the rest of the drivetrain. For more torque, shift further to the low range, L4. The Toyota's system is mechanical and requires a firm hand on the transfer case shift lever for actuation. Other 4Runner models are equipped with a variable system that's easier to operate at the expense of outright mechanical connectivity.
Q: How much do these things cost?
A: As equipped, our 2019 Subaru Forester Touring totaled $35,270, while our 2019 Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road rang in at $40,820. Both prices include destination and handling charges.
Read our review of the 2019 Toyota 4Runner here: www.edmunds.com/toyota/4runne...
Read our review of the 2019 Subaru Forester here: www.edmunds.com/subaru/forest...
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People are missing the point of this video entirely, the point is to see if an incredibly more practical car can compare to a incredibly more off-road capable car
I owned two 4Runner myself and love the car. But 99% of the consumers out there will NEVER drive on anything more than a dirt road, and that is the reality.
Unfortunate but true. "Real" SUVs and Jeeps are 90% for show. I'd sure rather be comfortable and get 12mpg better fuel economy on the highway.
Half asphalt and half snow . . Minnesota.
Speak for yourself lol
Looking at the vid, my first thought is, park the comfort of your shelter and get out and hike. Very few people actually have some destination that requires extreme off road on a regular basis. Do they work at an Amazon warehouse in the middle of nowhere, with no paved roads leading in? No. And off roading to be off roading, I don't relate. What is cool, are the Land Crusiers used in undeveloped countries out of necessity, they've set the bar.
@@tonymontana3742 You obviously haven't been out west. Public land goes on for ages and hiking is awesome but when you want to bring all your creature comforts overlanding is where it's at. The forester is nice but it shouldn't really be compared to the 4runner
I was convinced I needed a 4Runner and now I’m not so sure. I don’t do any off roading, only tent camping. I think a Subaru is the way to go.
Using the off road trim to compare with the forester touring isn’t the best. You should have used the limited trim which doesn’t have as soft suspension, more features and all season tires. But these two shouldn’t be compared anyway. They are in two completely different classes for different purposes.
Joe Larson very true!
The Subaru dealer told me there is no difference in suspension between the trims. Not sure who is right here.
Joe Larson maybe it's a price thing
I'm scratching my head on such an arbitrary comparison. I think I will go compare a plane to a helicopter... Either way, maybe next time they choose a Highlander. At least that is an apples to apples comparison.
Joe Larson true that , i own a 4 Runner 2015 and i will never buy the forester because the 2 are very different cars . If you like 4 Runner you wont like the forester and if you like the forester you wont like the 4 Runner . Is a no brainer .
For hardcore offloading I use my lifted 33" 2000 Toyota 4runner Limited 4x4 with factory e locker. 400,000 miles and on it's 4th timing belt. I use the 19 Forester Premium as our family car to cabin in the remote mountains. With a 2inch lift and all terrains I'm quite flabbergasted to what it won't due. Especially in Xmode with torque vectoring.
Im about the receive my 2022 forester as well. I was thinking about lifting it 2`` , did that affect your driving at all? and what tires do you use larger than normal since the car is lifted >?
In every one of your videos I've seen I've been most impressed with the music listed on your infortainment demos - even across different genres.
The Forester competes with the RAV4, not really the 4Runner
Herman A you missed the point of this comparision
Yeah as a 4Runner owner, I am totally on board for the forester since most of my driving is on Los Angeles freeways
tinhinnh what is the point?
Pretty dumb using road tires on the Forester. Different tires would make a massive difference.
@@cocoaliveson3235 But that isn't available from the factory as they are from Toyota. They are very different vehicles. I own both and like them each for what they are.
Yes, storage is very important. Thanks for including it, as well as the mechanical review.
Great comparison. Next I’d like like to see the towing comparison between a V6 Honda Ridgeline and a duramax GMC Sierra 2500.
😁
Josh Gibb it’s a stupid comparison dude
Toyota4Life haha I know...hence my comment for an even more stupid comparison.
Josh Gibb haha I got it
🤣🤣🤣
I've been a Toyota loyalist for a long time, but my Forester was unstoppable in snow, and that was an old one. These new ones are to my old Forester like this 4Runner was to the new Forester. And like these guys said, it's a way nicer ride when you're not out on a bad trail.
If you really need the 4Runner's capability and capacity, then there's no point in comparing. But if you're like these guys described, a weekend warrior who needs a car that's good in town but can handle some modest trails, the Forester is a really good choice.
Well said Leif.
4runner is also a better choice if you want to tow a trailer.
If I need the capability AND the comfort, I’ll buy a Grand Cherokee.
I had Jeeps before buying my Subaru Outback. It does 90% of what my 04 Grand Cherokee 4.7 did, but gets 10mpg more and is far more reliable. It also doesn't kind snow over the bumper (9"), and has been in mud almost to the hubs.
Besides, if I was gonna buy an SUV, it would be a Wrangler, the only real SUV still with solid axles.
you look like a toyota fan
Great detailed review showing both car's abilities on and off road. Bravo!
Cool vid, thank you for making it and sharing it with us! I finally pulled the trigger and purchased a Forester tonight. I won't be subjecting it to any significant trail challenges like those the 4Runner was obviously superior at, but I will be taking it on some fireroad-types of roads for mountain biking, camping, fishing, etc. which I think it will do perfectly well on. Cheers! Liked and subscribed.
This is a great review. I cant wait till they do a comparative review of the new mac pro to a lobster.
Yeah I'm excited for that review as well! I guess that apple charger isn't compatible with the lobster tail, but hey, whatever floats your canoe!
This made me laugh out loud for real!
Is the Lobster review out yet?
@@mauriliof Yes but they had to delete it: Apple threatened them with legal actions after the lobster won the offroad competition. They said they didn´t use the right accessories for the Mac.
Ahhh, Jordan Peterson. I see what you dud there ;)
Never thought of this comparison but it was nice to see
I literally laughed out loud several times. Thanks for the great video, guys.
This video was put together WELL. Nice job.
I like this “non traditional” comparison tests. When I buy a vehicle, it is rare all the cars on my list to compare are from the same category. I tend to look at the top 2 vehicles from several categories.
Thanks for this comparison video. They really help and are entertaining. It suits the way I shop and buy. Keep it up!
Btw, a couple years ago, I cross shopped a Forester vs Xterra vs Tacoma. I ended up with the Xterra.
As did I. After recently hitting a deer with my xterra I was back at the plate. Ended up going with the 19 forester sport. Honestly I live in the Rockies 4 on 4 off, ice climbing, skiing and mountain biking. It just made sense to go with the better mileage as I have a 400km drive each way to get there. Unless you need to tow a trailer for an adventure vehicle the Forester strikes the best balance. Sure I can't cross the ice shelves into the ghost anymore but losing 10mpg and the comfort honestly just wasn't worth it for the 3 times I go in a season.
I own a Tacoma 4x4 and a 14 Forester XT. They are both great, but the Forester is a blast to drive and has a surprisingly large amount of space. I also put AT's on it. Haven't had a chance to test them out yet.
Excellent video ! For all the reasons discussed here in deciding which vehicle is a better choice is the very reason I have owned both vehicles ( not 2019 models but with similar options ) to cover all my bases.
Great review, fun and informative.
You forgot to remove the “place holder” mark at 9:40 lol.
Loved this video tho!
4runner TRD Off Road does not comes with "beefy all-train tires". It has Bridgestone HT 265/70/17.
Adam Wu thank goodness someone said it. I was cringing. It also has Kdss, which practically eliminates body roll
Also, my 2016 has heated seats....
I have a more aggressive tire on my outback. Geolander a/t-s
@@wrengooding3096 not all have KDSS either. My 21 does not have it. And I prefer that it doesnt
Thanks for a fair review. Both of these models are on my short list to replace my current vehicle in September.
Nice review guys! Very Professional executed and realistic although these two are playing a different game! Beside that yes a great comparison understandable, informativ and entertaining!
Nice feature.
Though you didn't do just with the Foresrer.
The key is -
Choose the line - and Don't stop!
keep the momentum
it works like magic.
Happy new year
Blinka Bot I noticed that too. You need to keep momentum as the Subaru doesn’t have the low end torque and gearing to get going again
I traded my 2017 Subaru Forester XT in on a 2018 4Runner TRD Off-Road, BIG mistake! My Forester was like a sports car, where the 4Runner is like driving a boat. Nearly a year later, I am still bummed out about it.
My condolences
Turbo probably would have blown up by then.
Awesome! Review thanks for sharing your awesome video
Worth my time to watch your video.Thumb up
If you're more offroad oriented, the 4Runner is a great pick. But if you're doing both daily drives and some decent offroading with premium features, the Forester is for you.
THAT is the bottom line of this--- depends on your USE.... PERIOD. (or just preference if you like the "truck" experience every day)... I DO prefer the truck experience- but have no real USE for it any more-- but I'm tired of "just cars" too.. )
Never understood the desire to compare the 4Runner to cars. It's an unapologetic body-on-frame SUV that is outdated yet uber reliable. I've never looked at my Trail Edition as car and desire car-like attributes. Both vehicles here are geared towards an active lifestyle but the 4Runner will handle almost anything thrown at it.
This wasnt a comparison to see how the 4Runner did, we know that already. It's a comparison to see how the crossovers which have all but killed traditional SUVs would fair in similar scenarios.
@@ALMX5DP EPA standards killed the traditional SUV. Crossovers are just a result of that vacancy.
@@NaijaBoiTellEm I dont dispute that, just saying that this comparison was more for the crossover to show it's ability against the traditional established SUV, not the other way around.
@@ALMX5DP I disagree but that's neither here nor there.
@@NaijaBoiTellEm except they reference what this comparison was multiple times in the video.
Great job, guys and nice presentation.
Excellent comparison about the differences in capabilities of these vehicles just what I was looking for
11:07 If you want off-road with the forester?, change the tires; look a RAV4 for it test, but don't use the 4runner. Both are so good SUV, but in your level.
Best part of the 4Runner is that is doesn’t have all the gimmicky tech. Pay attention when you drive or don’t drive.
jaasun71 that’s not gimmicky tech you just sound like someone who hasn’t had a new car
@@ferretsmiles I dont want or need a car to tell me when I need a nap, or when to brake
Gimmicky tech, what do you think the 4Runner crawl control is? I have one similar to what was reviewed and the so called off road features that are added over the base models are nothing but a gimmick. I used them a number of times and quickly figured out it's better to go without them and relieved on your common sense driving experience. If you don't have the skills you may need these systems. My advice after driving this "car" for several years, don't waste your money on things that aren't needed.
@@blackdiamond5015 Multi Terrain Select, Atrac and the rear locker are not gimmicky tech, they all have their time and place, crawl control is gimmicky tech in most cases, but people love it, I never use it
@CrazyLegsMcGee Understand how it works. Similar to the Terrain Control the question is whether it's worth having these systems on the new 4-Runners. After having driven a Trail Premium for three years I can honestly say neither system adds much if any value and manual braking and driver experience driving over terrain works just fine if not better. Tech geeks will never agree but that's what I've found to hold true. Don't waste the money...
GREAT video-- covers these two vehicles the RIGHT way to compare for the AVERAGE PERSON.. and covers points most MISS- like what the person or family NEEDS- and what they wlll be DOING with it.. more often!!
Appreciate the video!
It was a good video but the conclusion was absurd. 4runner is about fun, not MPG and tech. If someone wants to get a crossover for family, Toyota offers Rav4 and Highlander. But the fact that Wrangler and 4runner sell a boatload proves that there is still demand for offroad monsters.
The lack of technology is the whole point of a forerunner! That’s what real mountain men buy ! But I also love Subarus pretty amazing cars, both are very useful but a forerunner will probably run 25 years nonstop
@@darylhill9400 go out to Colorado and you'll sing a different tune about what "mountain people" buy.. Damn near every vehicle in Colorado is a Subaru
So a 4 cylinder compact unibody CUV is cheaper, more efficient, and more comfortable than a V6 mid-size BOF SUV that is better off-road and can tow more.........Oh look, an Edmunds review. Maybe they'll tell me something I don't know.
I think the takeaway was that the crossover has caught up to the traditional SUV. Less compromises overall while still being more capable than 95% of what people need or desire their vehicle to do.
@@ALMX5DP Bullsh*t.
@@skipper5951 You dont have to like it. They conclude that very sentiment at the end of the video...
The Cherokee XJ is unibody and it kicks ass off road. Bof is pointless.
@@somanymods they are also good at leaving you stranded on the side of a trail :/
Perfect...this is exactly the kinda of comparison i wanted to see , real world, and VS.
So cool watching you guys drive around my town here in Big Bear. Also, had no idea how nice the interior of the Subaru was! 🤔
The rear lockers on the 4Runner will take you places the Forester can only dream of.
Yeah, but how many 4Runner owners go to those "places"? Hello'? Anybody home?
I do all the time and I own a 2WD 4runner HELLO!
@Ocee Bee I have figuratively taken my dog on the Ho Chi Mon trail.
And the FRONT and REAR lockers of the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon will take you so much further. :-)
@@jeffissimo1221...except the Jeep will break down before you get to use said lockers.
Basically, you're taking your Bass loafers hiking on a one track. Yes they fit your feet and protect them well. The first time you have to climb over something or walk through tall grass, you'll wish for the 4Runner. Last I remember, I could go to the grocery store in my 4Runner and wear my boots. I could always downgrade to less capability but I'll be able to get along with my 4Runner for years. But be fore warned, don't get a 4Runner if you didn't want an SUV.
I own a small crossover (2015 Rav4 AWD) and a 2003 4Runner. The Rav is great, good fuel economy, pleasant if unexciting to drive and great in winter but the 4Runner is on a whole different level. I've owned and driven many many different vehicles and IMHO the 4th gen V8 full time 4WD 4Runner is one of the best designed, best engineered and best built personal vehicles ever offered for sale.
I'd love a 4runner if I could afford it, but I am happy to say that this video made me feel better about my Crosstrek. Thanks!
The mentioned getting "off the beaten path"... when are they going to do that?
Wouldn't comparing to a rav4 be more realistic? I own both, if I'm going elk hunting, I take the fourrunner,if I'm taking my wife on the town,I take my 2019 forester sport.
@Ebn -Falasteen I love it, but got it for my wife, her nickname is CRASH
I appreciate the comparison. I'm considering these two vehicles.
Great video!!!!!
So the "off road" test conclusion is to just say that 95% of people won't go on real off road terrain?! Thats helpful... If someone wants a vehicle to drive on gravel and dirt roads nearly any vehicle can do that. The Subaru clearly can deal with any poorly maintained road better than many car type vehicles and similar to other cute-utes. But the reason you get a Wrangler or 4runner is because you hope to go on real off road adventures or regularly do so, or live somewhere that may need that level of utility. Having the excess capability is also critical when you encounter freak hail, rain, snow storms that turn simple dirt forest service roads into mud bogs, where rock slides, fallen trees and spring run off can create road washouts, even whole trails being blocked etc. Often most forrest service trails go for miles and tend to get more difficult the higher you go, if you vehicle does not have the capability, you could be stuck miles from the trail head or destination. If anything but a perfectly dry and well maintained forrest service road is encountered with the Subaru you could be out of luck. The 4runner will be much more likely to be able to deal with what ever the trail throws at you. The Subaru is not built with real off road in mind, If you push the Subaru's limits regularly you are certain to damage parts of the vehicle vs a vehicle made specifically for those challenges and breaking down in the back country has the potential to be both dangerous and expensive to be rescued from. I almost never see Subaru owners putting tough off road tires on their vehicles, most likely thing to happen is tearing a sidewall of a tire or puncturing on a sharp rock on an obstacle with the "car" tires people always run on Subaru's. I don't get the test like this... these are 2 different categories of vehicles. There are a million cute-ute Suabru like cars made by every manufacture from Toyota to Lamborghini, obviously 95% of customers are content with those vehicles and the majority will never see anything but perhaps a gravel road or well traveled dirt road so why compare them to some of the last real off road capable vehicles still made (Wrangler/4runner) for the 5% who do drive that stuff and the even large number who want to reserve the capability to do so if they get the chance. Why don't you do this test on Hells revenge in Moab or Black Bear pass in Telluride and see which vehicle you wan't or can take if you want to do a "off road" test?
Two totally different vehicles. You have to ask yourself, do you want a real truck, or a fairly capable grocery getter. Check out TFL truck review on the 2019 4 Runner. I doubt any SUV, would be able to do that, that wasn’t a body on frame design. Although I do have a lot of respect for the Subaru, I would go for the 4 runner. Simple, strong, and reliable.
Great vid!
Impressive! Great comparison!👍👍
No one asked for this comparison, should of been 2019 RAV4 Adventure vs 2019 Forester off road comparison.
This
would be pointless the rav wouldn't stand a chance
Yeah i agree, specifically the RAV4 TRD Offroad
clark’s grade, i know that trail like the back of my hand!
Good video, would have liked to see more offroad action. Interested in the 4x4 setups and how they compare, especially in mud.
I have owned a Toyota FJ Cruiser & Land Rover Discovery. I now own a 2018 Subaru Outback. While initially, I had my doubts regarding the Subaru's capabilities, now I am a believer. I can go to and get to 98% of anywhere the above 2 vehicles took me. The build quality and AWD system are something no other car company does for under 50K. Capability, comfort, tech and nearly twice the MPG of an FJ or 4Runner, plus it's the value play in the segment. The Ascent, Outback, Forester & Crosstrek ALL come with AWD, XMode & Subaru's "Eye Sight" (collision mitigation and more) STANDARD. It just makes sense. Plus you can easily find lift kits, skid plates etc. Lastly, something I like is you can purchase an all systems 10 year, 100K additional warranty for (there are various year and mileage combinations to choose) for under 2K! :)
Great review!! Now I wonder how the towing capacity of my moped compares to a semi...
Why don’t you compare a Lamborghini aventador vs Toyota Prius next? 4Runner haters lol
C M the Forester runs circles around the 4Runner? lol that's funnyyy
Toyota and subaru are the same company nimrod
C M wow a smaller crossover beats a suv in a drag race. Great inference
C M and in snow the word “dominate” is a bit exaggerated. I live right by Breckinridge, Colorado and have never felt uncomfortable on snow in the 4Runner, and that’s with all terrain ko2s. Funny actually because despite the forester, and all Subaru’s for that matter, are advertised primarily for their snow capability. I’ll say it’s definitely capable for those early morning grocery trips in some slush. I like Subaru for what they do and I definitely like the look of their crosstrek, but come on, don’t build it up to be anything more then what it is.
It also beats an f-150 around a track and in mpg what’s your point? It’s one of the best selling vehicles in the nation. I feel like your issue is that you try to classify the two vehicles in the same class when in reality, both physically and on paper, there is no comparing the two. You can attempt, but nothing hides the fact that you buy it for your teen driver or if you can’t afford the runner.
Great review thanks! Very interesting for me too. I learned to drive and did my driving test in a diesel Landcruiser back in the day. After years of seeing them as silly old trucks, I want those capabilities again at some point. In the mean time I drove many small FWD cars before getting an 07 Forester 5 years ago. It's an inferior off roader for the serious stuff but it's a reasonable to great compromise for everything else. With low tire pressures it glides over deep sand too - negating the low clearance issue for light duty beach work. It will never be a Landcruiser of course but instead of flipping it this year I've decided to renew it over time including tapping into the vast supply of knowledge and upgrades available - these are a well-loved design. For a cross-over, their balance and handling is surprisingly good. I've had time with the new Subaru driver's aids and they are impressive.
FWIW, I chose not to go for a new Forester because they dropped the dual range and now the manual transmission. I bet the CVT is fine but its not for me.
Have a Forester and it does just fine. Of course the 4 runner is able to be more of an off roader but kudos to subaru. It may not be able to climb mountains at 90 degrees like Toyota but that’s not why I bought mine. It’s the best of both worlds, city driving and occasional camping off the beat and path. Good review edmunds. Hope to see some other SUVs reviewed.
If I had money it would be a 4 runner all day
I'd love one. A 4runner would be too much fun.
nah rather have the subaru more practical and more fun.
If my aunt had balls she'd be my uncle.
MrKeefrichards fun? Stfu
wckdkoolbtxh they are called tents, also you can’t haul and tow shit so the Taco wins
Great video. Just solidified my choice between the 2.
Forester.
I know the 4Runner is considered outdated by many because it does have a lot of tech features, like radar or blind spot etc... But that's why I'm thinking of checking it out. I tend to keep my cars forever and reliability is more important to me and I have never been a fan of adding a lot of things that will break and cost a lot of money to fix years after the warranty has expired.
I am currently about to get rid of my 20 years old car because it's not worth fixing it but I took care of it and got a good couple of decades out of it without any major issues for most of that time.
Enjoyed the video... I have many fond memories of Big Bear, and I miss the area.
I have an '05 Toyota 4Runner with 250,000 miles on it......Original engine, transmission, exhaust system, shocks. It's an unapologetic, gets terrible fuel economy......and most of all, it's all about that Holy shit moment, I can't believe i just made it up that trail! So if you lack the nerve to drive on anything more than a washed out dirt road with some pot holes........Nah, I'll still take the tested and true reliability of the 4Runner, over the questionable reliability of a Subaru.
Tony Iacona 4.7 or 4.0?
I have a 2004 V6 with 250,000 miles :). Thing is a beast.
@@er1115 It's the 4.7 Limited
Excellent points Tony. I have owned 4 Subarus - daily drivers. They are super comfortable and the AWD is great in the snow. However, I cannot say that they are reliable. All my Subarus have had serious and expensive engine issues around the 120,000 km mark. I don't know what it is with Subaru. The reliability is just not there long term. Toyota has Subaru beat hands down in the quality and longevity department. I drive 110 kms round trip for work in a 2015 Outback. My wife drives a 2011 Toyota Prius 140 kms round trip for work. Her Prius has 245,000 kms. Her car has not had a single issue and is rolling like a boss. It is truly unbelievable. I think the Prius is uglier than sin, but I cannot knock its reliability. My next purchase will be a Toyota.
@@giotism my prius has 450,000km and it has been used to tow a small trailer frequently. Toyota makes fantastic cars.
Silverados are lucky if they make it 200,000 miles....after you've poured countless $1000s in in everyday repairs; bodywork, brake lines, pads, rotors, more bodywork, regulators (3).... *etc*
Excellent performance and good off road though.
Min 10:50 to 11:00 False!!! Subaru can do it, that and more, who have one of this know it and 'v see it.
Victor R. Cortes stfu
I agree, he didn't even put it in x mode
Just send it and it'll go up
Correct its FALSE.The subaru forester could have gone up it. He didn't put faith in it and much power and made the Subaru Forester look like an idiot car.The Subaru FORESTER is much more capable. Subaru's make the best AWD SYSTEM
@@nischalvaradhan4303 if it's the best awd system why did it just spin one wheel and not go anywhere?
It was a nice test! I was exactly looking to buy one of these two and was confused a little bit on which one to buy. Now it is more clear (of course I don't live in US, so I was comparing Landcruiser Prado vs. Subaru Forester, but I believe Prado is the same as 4Runner at the end of the day). Thanks a lot for your video.
Aref Eshghi it’s an easy decision. Cheaper car with good fuel economy vs an expensive capable real 4wd. There’s not much comparison. The Toyota is a far better vehicle. Depends what you can afford.
Yep, it's all about the money at the end of the day! :) With the money I have, I have these choices:
1- Buying a relatively new Forester (2014-ish) with 50t-60t km (~30t miles).
2- Buying a 2006-ish "petrol" Toyota Prado with around 100-150t km (~60-90t miles)
3- Buying a "diesel" 2004-ish Toyota Prado with 200t km (~125t miles).
4- Buying a 2004-ish "petrol" Toyota Landcruiser with 220t-250t km (~150 miles).
Which one do you suggest? I personally want to go with the diesel one (option 3), but they say governments might ban cars without DPF filters which I think is everything from Toyota before 2006-ish.
PS: I can also sell my current car (Audi A5) and use its money to buy an offroader with less mileage than the above.
Great video
Should come with a disclaimer.. An ad for Subaru. Many other crossover suvs can do what Forrester does. 95% of the time isn't good enough for use cases 4runner is built for. The 5% is what will make you go rent a 4runner like car for trails like this.
all it takes is one bad patch in the bush, and you're F'ed. that's how the couple died in the snow with their crossover in Oregon. They thought their awd could handle the rough stuff and got lost / stuck.
Great mash up! People cross shop all the time. Helped me contextualize the Forester's offroad chops against the off-road king. And, yes 95% of the time will be on-road. Great review. Next time, just tell the dude not to wear his office shirt on a camping trip. Tell em to loosen up, too. it's CZcams... not a corporate boardroom.
I have a 2015 Forester XT, with K02 all terrian tires. For semi rough dirt off, it's perfect. It gets me to the trailhead with no issues. The thing i like about the forester is that i spend the majority of the time on the freeway. The turbo does get me decent mpg and has tons of passing power on the freeway, going up hill and has decent handling for the long sweepers on the freeway. Sure it's not as capable pure offroading as a 4 runner. But for good handling, decent power and decent off road capability, it's perfect. The suspension feels pretty solid and stiff, perfect for the street, but slightly rough for offroading. I got the car as an adventure car take me out of town for camping and getting to the trailhead.
I've had both, and I like both of them. '94 4runner and an '03 Forester XT.
Sigh.
The comments down here are truly idiotic, sorry to say.
The _very point_ of the test was to see how an everyday non-off-road mission critical vehicle compares to a traditional body-on-frame off-road mission critical vehicle.
It's _not_ supposed to be some Jeep vs. 4Runner off-road test to the death.
ffs
true. As expected the idiots are out in force.
This is a youtube comment section. Why do both of you sound surprised?
Toyota owners get defensive when you compare ANYTHING to them. The answer is always “resale and reliability”.
Subaru owners do too, mostly because of the expenses associated to keep them reliable, but the justification is always “symmetrical AWD”.
It's all man-children stroking their schlongs of course. Been there, done that. Having learned to drive in a cruiser I always knew soft-roaders were nothing cars - inferior for everything. After being offered a sweet deal on a forester some years ago, now I get it. The Forester was the exception to the rule and the better car for most people most of the time. I don't want the new one because of the lack of low range and manual, but I am sure it's a good car, especially in the US where autos are almost the rule.
Hey I just want to get drunk and abuse slightly different-thinking people from the comfort of my own home. What's your problem?
Being a former Subaru owner ... I would never say anything bad about them. If you want a vehicle that require zero driver skill, and just wanna go MAYBE 50% of where a runner can go with ease ... then get it. You won’t be 100% happy, but you will not be 100% disappointed either. You will simply live in that segment ‘that wishes for a bit more the entire duration of your ownership’ ... that’s all
I loved my Subaru ... currently own an 18 runner ... I was simply always wanting more everything (Cept silly gadgets) ... the runner you need to learn it ... but once you do ... you are unstoppable ... the Subaru there isn’t much to do except keep going until you hit its inevitable limit ... period ... it’s a car
They are geeky.
Pretty fun vid with 2 excellent vehicles. I would have liked to see some different tires , more appropriate, on the subie though. I've seen some lift kits for the crosstrek , outback and forester that would increased its offroad capability and they look nice as well.
I have a ‘19 Forester and was thinking of getting a 4Runner before I got it. Glad I didn’t go with the 4Runner due to horrible mpg and not all are 4wd. The safety for my family that my Forester offers is no match for the 4Runner. Sure it’s bigger and can go over larger obstacles. But end of the day dirt, snow and mud can’t stop the Forester. Great for small families who like to go on adventures and get some decent mpg and great comfort on the way there. This is just my opinion.
I bought the 4runner because it's a Toyota, better visibility, safer, and better looking. I didn't even consider a Subaru.
LOL Subaru by far has the best visibility! Better than Toyota or any other brand. But yes the Toyota is a tougher car.
So????
Ah, the 95% of the time argument. If people bought their “95% use” vehicle, everyone would have a minivan, Ridgeline or Prius. Better to have it and not need it, as the saying goes.
Better to pretend you need it than let your neighbors know you just need a minivan
@@williamedstrom5681 hahahahahaha! Epic.
Yeah, it's just like body armor. You're probably never going to need it, but it's better to wear it all the time and not need it than risk getting shot at on the ONE day you leave it at home. Plus it lets everyone know how cool you are, and that's the real point, right? I personally wouldn't be caught DEAD going to the movies or the beach without my kevlar on over my tank top. You never know, right?! You never know. One day I might get shot at, by some deranged surfer, and one day you might have a rocky mountain face spring up in front of you on your way home from work. Best to be prepared!
I have both. subaru will take me anywhere I want to go and because I live in the city it gets much better gas mileage
95% of the time I don't have hang out with 95% of the population, that's why I bought a proper 4x4 which means it has low range and a difflock.
I’ve got to say... great video and premise! Insane footage! And I CANNOT IMAGINE taking a $30-45k vehicle on trails like those!!! Yikes!
Nice comparison.
It sounded like a Subaru commercial
The first thing you missed is payload. Max out the Forrester and try it off road then we'll talk again. 4 adults and some gear in the Forrester and you've lost about 2 inches of ground clearance. You'll loose nothing in the 4Runner with it's solid rear axle. The Forrester will start bottoming out on small bumps at speed where the 4Runner will actually drive smoother. Finally, you have a CVT in the Forrester and will run out of initial torque to climb even modest obstacles. No problem with the 4Runner and it's low range. I've driven a Subaru off road for a couple of years and now I drive a FJ Cruiser. You think the Forrester is underpowered, load it up and it becomes unacceptable. No passing reserver, buzzing to climb hills and downright dangerous when merging. You won't find that with the 4Runner. Don't say that the Forrester does most of what the 4Runner can do. The truth is that its as good as most crossovers specially off road, but it can't hold a candle to the 4Runner in deep snow, soft sand, mud, ice in deep puddles, deep water, payload, towing, rough dirt roads. Not only that, but you can off road for years in the 4Runner and after doing it with any unitized body vehicle, it will shake itself to pieces. Nice try but no cigar.
They're not disputing the fact that a BoF SUV is superior when the going gets tough. They're making the argument that for the average owner, the crossover does everything they want and need with less compromise.
@@ALMX5DP And I'm saying that while the Subi handles and rides better on road it is under powered and this gets almost dangerous when fully loaded with passengers and or stuff. Unladen it does pretty well off road, but this degrades a lot if loaded and anyone that wants to off road with a CVT is risking overheating it and damaging it if they"re not careful. This was observed in another video I saw where a warning light for overheating the CVT was activated. There's a reason they're not rated to tow much. Usually because the payload can't take much of a tongue load or the drive train can't handle the work. I just think they overstated the off road and on road capabilities of the Forrester.
Denis LeBlanc well I can’t argue that they may be overstating things for the sake of a review. I just feel like they’re looking at it from an average user perspective.
Denis nailed it, end of story!
My family and I are the average user you are talking about. 95% of our driving is daily commuting and the other 5% is camping.
We have had Subaru's for many years and have been getting progressively more outdoor oriented. This year we upgraded to a 4runner for basically every reason Denis has stated. While the Outback we had was great for in town it severely underperformed while loaded with a weekends worth of camping gear, a roof top tent, and my full family (wife, daughter, 90lbs dog, and me). If we wanted to only glamp and didn't mind being right next to the next campers that would be ok and we wouldn't need ground clearance but we actually wanted to get out in nature. The 4runner on the other hand has done wonderfully.
Also, if they wanted to compare niceties they should have compared the 4runner limited to the Forester touring.
Edmunds, can you please make a video interviewing a Subaru technician on how to drive Subaru's symmetrical AWD. For example, does traction control stay on or off when off-road? Do we need to feather the throttle or is it full power all the way? What is the best way to get the full potential of x-mode?
I absolutely love Toyota off road capability, but my wife’s ascent is awesome on the trail, with a spotter I was impressed by the rocks that suv was crawling over.
I own a 4 runner and I will give the forester a lot of credit, the 4 runner had all terrain tires and the forester had all seasons, big difference off road, my only problem with the forester is how ugly it is and how bad mechanically Subaru’s are
Mechanically in what área???
My Subarus have always been good to me mechanically 🤷♂️
This was many years ago but I’ve met 2 WRX owners with engine problems, the one guy blew his first motor at 60000km and he said the second engine was going, he also said he drove his car very hard, and I had a friend with an older legacy lots of problems, transmission the biggest of the problems, I believe the sti and wrx engine trouble is common but I may be wrong, something about accelerating hard at low rpm
Give me the Toyota 4runner anyday!
I own a Forester and an Outback but I much rather have a 4 runner. I just don't need one at this point. But the 4 runner is superior, It's a great truck. I would much rather have it over a Jeep.
Patrick Sheehan Thank you for being so honest I have the 4runner and it is an amazing vehicle and I will take it to my grave.
I’ve had 3 foresters and all 3 had to have the head gaskets replaced. Expensive!!!
As the owner of a 4Runner and an Outback, the big difference for me is the range and fuel mileage. Who wants to worry about fueling up when you are a long way out in the backcountry? My 4Runner needed a refill within 200, maybe 225 miles. Off road, maybe 180 miles. My Outback? 375 to 400 miles. Big difference for vehicles with similar real world capabilities.
Awesome video fair and balanced
Would have been better if you did the RAV 4 vs Forester 2019's both are crossover.
So many car reviewers like these don't know how to drive active AWD vehicles.
You need to maintain throttle input.
If you keep letting go of the gas, you don't allow the AWD system to work.
This is basic knowledge that sadly, too many drivers and reviewers don't know.
The Subaru cuts power trying to prevent spinning. You can floor it and it just dies.
That's what the new deep snow/mud mode is for. To allow spinning and not just cut power
Paul Martin
Active AWD requires constant throttle input so that the system can then decide where to send the power. 😉
Brandon Fenton
Correct, but it only works with constant throttle input.
@@RobertLeBlancPhoto yeah I was wondering why he didn't even attempt the hill, he was pulsing the acceleration and I'm just sitting here like "Well thats not how you do that at all, and you are totally ignoring the next level of x mode, but okay". For daily driver I do like the Subaru tho, especially for heavy snow on paved roads and the capability of x mode.
As somebody who was legitimately cross shopping a truck, 4runner, and a crossover this was an interesting test.
I ended up with a Forester due to being able to do everything I would want to do in a 4runner and get 10 more mpg. The test isn't completely invalid due to being different demographics.
An everyday issue that is often missed is payload. When you start loading the Forester with 4 adults and their gear, you get very close to the maximum payload of approximately 1,300 lbs. Combine this with a relatively small displacement engine and CVT and you have a vehicle that has to work much harder. Towing is limited to 1,500 lbs if you want to bring a tent camper.
Like the Forester as a city vehicle but would like to see how well it does over the long-term.
I think anyone reviewing a Forester who failed to mention it's acceleration being as slowing as a Prius is not doing a very good job.
EJ Wu Do you work at Toyota? What do you care?
Actually the 0-60 time of a '19 Prius is over a second slower than the '19 Forester.
@@ozzierabbit587 I'm new to Subaru, and find that a 2019 Forester, while obviously not a sportscar, is quite satisfactory in the horsepower/"pep" department for most driving conditions. It compares favorably to my former SUVs in terms of acceleration and comfort, and even exceeds most in cargo capacity and ground clearance..
I know this is old, but I've got a '19 forester, and while yes... acceleration from a dead stop leaves some to be desired, once I'm at speed, it actually has pretty good passing power. Then again, I came from a car from '92 that weighed more than the forester and had 20 less horsepower when it was brand new Haha
William stfu bitch
As a 2x 4Runner owner, I have to say this vehicle was one of the best SUV's I've owned...btw this is a poor comparison. It should of been a Highlander vs. Ascent or Rav4 vs. Forester.
I have the feeling you missed the point of this video. There is no doubt that the 4Runner is the true off roader of the group. The point the video was making is the Forester can do about 90-95% of what the 4Runner can do off road while being a better daily driver for the average consumer.
I dont think you understand the point of this video lol
Did you even watch the video?
This is a good comparo because it shows just how good the Subaru is. Sure the Yota' is better off-road and towing, but theSubaru is better at everything else. Handling, comfort, efficiency, driving range and safety go to to the Forester.
Liked both but ended up getting the 2020 RAV4 and I love it
Why wasn't the comparison made between the Ascent vs. the 4Runner???
Rafael Villanueva I understand what you’re getting at but I think they chose to compare these two vehicles simply because they both seat 5.
@@Fritz___ Actually, there are trim levels of 4runners with 3rd row seating.
I'd rather have a Forester in a snow storm than a 4runner
I went from a 4Runner to a Forestor. I miss the space of the 4Runner when it came to moving household items but I don’t miss the gas mileage.
Did the same a week ago. Also trust the Subaru AWD more. The 4runner has the better engine, but I had a transfer case fail out of the blue and it soured my opinion of the part time 4wd Toyota uses.
Good job