2022 Honda CR-V vs 2022 Subaru Forester: for the whole package

Analyzing the spec sheets of the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester, we discover obvious qualities at both addresses. Yet, one of the products has been on the market for decades while the other remains popular, but only with a certain clientele, not the masses.

It's the whole package, to be honest. This is where the Honda CR-V manages to rise above the fray against a rival like the Subaru Forester.

Let's analyze a few things together.

Value

When buying any vehicle, it's normal to look at its value on the market. In this respect, the 2022 Honda CR-V has a major advantage over the Subaru Forester, as after three years, it retains about 10% more of its value when new. That's huge when you consider that you're paying the difference between new and residual value when you lease. Also, when the time comes to resell, it's as if the CR-V gives you money back compared to the Forester.

A smoother, more reliable engine

The Subaru Forester is equipped with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine offering 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. It does an honest job and is relatively reliable. It would be good for comparison against many models, but not against the Honda CR-V.

The 2022 CR-V still shows up with a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that's rated at 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque. It's the benchmark for reliability in its segment, so the Forester can't be measured against it advantageously.

Driving

Behind the wheel, there's also an important difference. The Subaru Forester is an SUV that offers a good level of comfort and is interesting in this regard. However, its chassis is not as stiff as the Honda CR-V's, so you feel a little less in control behind the wheel. The suspension is more permissive and the steering is less incisive. With the 2022 CR-V, everything is well proportioned and well balanced and you can feel it behind the wheel. Most importantly, it gives us confidence.

There's no better way to get the measure of all this than to examine the CR-V in person at a dealership. Then you'll understand that what they say about it isn't just for show; it's truly a dominant model.