2025 Subaru Forester vs Honda CR-V CT: The Ultimate SUV Showdown for Connecticut Drivers

2025 Subaru Forester vs Honda CR-V CT: Which SUV Reigns Supreme for Connecticut Drivers?

When it comes to choosing the perfect SUV for navigating Connecticut’s diverse landscapes, from bustling city streets to winding country roads, two contenders stand out: the 2025 Subaru Forester vs Honda CR-V CT. As a Connecticut driver, you need a vehicle that can handle everything from snowy winters to summer beach trips. Let’s dive into an in-depth comparison to help you make the best choice for your needs.

The Subaru Advantage: All-Wheel Drive and Safety

One of the standout features of the Subaru Forester is its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. Buddy Blichfeldt, an expert from Quality Subaru in Wallingford, CT, explains:

“Subaru’s symmetrical AWD is superior because it isn’t adapted from a two-wheel drive system. The advantages of this uniquely designed system include prevention of torque steer during heavy acceleration, linear power application to all wheels, and maximized traction to reduce sliding during poor road conditions.”

This feature is particularly crucial for Connecticut drivers who face varying weather conditions throughout the year. While the Honda CR-V offers all-wheel drive as an option on some trims, it’s not standard across the lineup like it is with the Forester.

Safety: A Top Priority for Both SUVs

The 2025 Subaru Forester vs Honda CR-V CT prioritize safety, but the Forester has a slight edge. Blichfeldt highlights:

“The outgoing Forester received the 2023 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) TOP SAFETY PICK award. This marks the 17th consecutive year Forester has earned an IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK (2007-2023) – more than any other small SUV.”

The 2025 Forester comes standard with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes features like:

• Forward collision warning with automatic braking
• Lane keeping assistance
• Adaptive cruise control

The Honda CR-V also offers similar safety features, but they may not be standard on all trim levels.

Performance and Handling: The Boxer Engine Advantage

When it comes to performance, the Subaru Forester has a unique advantage with its Boxer engine. Blichfeldt explains:

“The Boxer engine is designed to deliver a balance of power and efficiency by utilizing a flat engine positioned in line with the drivetrain. The horizontal position of the pistons creates a more comfortable and smoother driving experience.”

The 2025 Forester comes with a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER engine producing 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. In comparison, the Honda CR-V offers a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine in its base model, with a hybrid option available in higher trims.

Interior Comfort and Space: A Close Competition

Both SUVs offer comfortable interiors with ample space for passengers and cargo. However, the Forester has a slight edge in terms of visibility. Blichfeldt notes:

“When you sit in a Forester in the way the glass area is, there’s nothing that compares to it. You have a visibility where you have virtually no blind spots and you have a really commanding view of the road, whether you’re driving or backing up or looking to the side mirrors.”

The Forester offers 111.6 cubic feet of passenger volume, slightly more than the CR-V’s 105.9 cubic feet. Both vehicles provide comfortable seating for five passengers and offer similar cargo space with the rear seats folded down.

Technology and Infotainment: Modern Features for the Modern Driver

Both the 2025 Subaru Forester vs Honda CR-V CT come equipped with modern infotainment systems. The 2025 Forester offers an available 11.6-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Blichfeldt highlights the user-friendly design:

“In addition to you being able to use your fingers to scroll through information display, we also have just regular buttons and knobs to go along with that for the key features that you use the most.”

The Honda CR-V also offers a similar-sized touchscreen on higher trims, with smartphone integration capabilities.

Fuel Efficiency: Balancing Power and Economy

When it comes to fuel efficiency, both SUVs perform well. The Subaru Forester offers competitive fuel economy, with Blichfeldt noting:

“With fuel economy up to 33 MPG and over 540 miles of driving range, the 2025 Forester compact SUV delivers competitive fuel efficiency.”

The Honda CR-V, especially in its hybrid form, may have a slight edge in city driving, but the difference is minimal for most Connecticut drivers.

Off-Road Capability: Forester Takes the Lead

For Connecticut drivers who enjoy weekend adventures or need to navigate rough rural roads, the Subaru Forester has a clear advantage. Blichfeldt explains:

“Subaru has and always has like the most rugged features and one of those would be ground clearance. So just all the Foresters have, you know, 8.7 inches of ground clearance, but then you have the wilderness model, which then gives you, you know, another half inch of ground clearance.”

The Forester’s X-MODE feature, standard on higher trims, further enhances its off-road capabilities. While the Honda CR-V is capable of light off-roading, it’s not designed for more challenging terrains like the Forester.

Reliability and Resale Value: Long-Term Considerations

Both Subaru and Honda have reputations for building reliable vehicles. However, Subaru has an edge when it comes to resale value. Blichfeldt proudly states:

“Subaru, for the last four years running, we’ve won multiple Kelley Blue Book Awards in the segment, including the 2023 Kelley Blue Book Best Resale Value Award.”

This high resale value can be a significant factor for Connecticut drivers looking to make a smart long-term investment in their vehicle.

The Verdict: Which SUV is Best for Connecticut Drivers?

While both the 2025 Subaru Forester vs Honda CR-V CT are excellent choices for Connecticut drivers, the Forester has a slight edge due to its standard all-wheel drive, superior visibility, and off-road capabilities. However, the best choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Blichfeldt sums it up well:

“When you drive it, when you sit in it, when you listen to how quiet it is, when you go over the bumps that we have in Connecticut on our roads, you immediately know the difference.”

We recommend visiting Quality Subaru in Wallingford, CT, to test drive the 2025 Subaru Forester and experience its capabilities firsthand. Remember, the best SUV for you is the one that fits your lifestyle, budget, and driving needs in the beautiful state of Connecticut.

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