There's not much between these two SUVs when it comes to how much they cost. But while the list price (MSRP or RRP) for these two particular models is close, each plays a different role in its respective range.
For example, the Subaru Forester Hybrid L is the entry-level hybrid model in the Forester line-up, with an MSRP of $39,990 plus on-road costs. There's a more expensive top of the range Forester Hybrid S ($45,990) as well, but as always, you'll want to check the CarsGuide listings and also the Autotrader site to see if you can find a good drive away price. Go to our Subaru Forester page to compare Subaru Forester models.
On the other hand, the Toyota RAV4 GXL Hybrid AWD is one of six different petrol-electric models available in the RAV4 range. This one costs $41,490 plus on-road costs and was the closest available vehicle to match-up to the Forester Hybrid L - but you can get into a RAV4 hybrid anywhere from $35,490 (GX 2WD) through to $44,990 (Cruiser AWD). Need to compare GX vs GXL vs Cruiser? Head to our RAV4 hub.
But let's take a closer look at the standard features you'll find in each of these particular SUV variants to see which offers the better value equation.
First up, let's consider the media systems offered in both models. Neither has a subwoofer, and there's a difference in infotainment screen size and functionality: the Subaru misses out on a GPS navigation system, for instance. Neither has a DVD player as part of its multimedia system, either.
 | RAV4 GXL Hybrid AWD | Forester Hybrid L |
Sat nav | Y | N |
Apple CarPlay / Android Auto | Y | Y |
Touch screen size | 8.0-inch | 6.5-inch |
USB ports | 5 (3 front, 2 rear) | 3 (1 front, 2 rear) |
Radio | AM/FM/DAB | AM/FM/DAB |
CD player | N | Y |
Sound system speakers | 6 | 6 |
Wireless phone charging (Qi) | Y | N |
Beyond gadgets and technology, when it comes to trim and interior finishes, there is a different look and feel for both models - but because neither are the highest-spec variants, they're both missing items such as leather trim. Neither has a panoramic sunroof available in the specs you see here, while also missing at this price point is a power tailgate and heated steering wheel.
 | RAV4 GXL Hybrid AWD | Forester Hybrid L |
Interior trim | Cloth | Cloth |
Electric seat adjustment | N | N |
Leather steering wheel | Y | Y |
Heated seats | N | Y |
Air conditioning | Dual zone climate control | Dual zone climate control |
Directional rear air vents | Y | Y |
Keyless entry / smart key | Y | Y |
Push button start | Y | Y |
Cruise control | Adaptive | Adaptive |
When it comes to exterior differentiators, there's a few to consider: the Toyota has bigger wheels and dual exhaust tail-pipes, but otherwise they're both pretty matched spec-for-spec, including in the headlight department: both have LED daytime running lights and LED headlights, so you can forget those lesser lighting technologies like xenon, projector and HID beams. While the lights are good on both, country owners might want to invest in a set of LED driving lights or a light bar.
 | RAV4 GXL Hybrid AWD | Forester Hybrid L |
Alloy wheels | 18-inch | 17-inch |
Tyres | Bridgestone Atenza 225/60/18 | Bridgestone Dueler H/P 225/60/17 |
Roof rails | Y | Y |
LED headlights | Y | Y |
LED daytime running lights | Y | Y |
Auto headlights | Y | Y |
Auto high-beam lights | Y | Y |
Auto rain sensing wipers | Y | Y |
Auto dimming rear view mirror | Y | N |
You might be wondering what sort of accessories are available, and thankfully it extends beyond floor mats and different rims, even on these trim levels. You can option a nudge bar, window tint, cargo barrier, cargo net, cargo liner (the RAV4 comes with a reversible mat), roof rack, side steps and tow bar for these models - essentially, you can make up your own sport edition! But you'll need to go to the aftermarket for a bull bar or snorkel.
As for colours (or colors, depending on where you live) our two cars were specced up in eye-catching hues, but here's a rundown for each model.
The Forester is available in Jasper Green metallic as you see here, as well as Crystal Black pearl, Horizon Blue pearl, Sepia Bronze metallic (light brown), Magnetite Grey metallic, Crimson Red pearl, Ice Silver metallic and Crystal White pearl. The best news about that is all of them are no-cost. That's $0!
The RAV4's colour options include the rather aptly named Eclectic Blue metallic, as well as Eclipse Black Mica, Saturn Blue metallic, Graphite grey metallic, Atomic Rush metallic red, Silver Sky metallic and Crystal Pearl white. All of those cost you $600 extra, while Glacier White solid white is the only no-cost option.
These two models are very closely matched, and while the Toyota has a few more additional goodies, it is more expensive. We can't split them in this section.
Model | Score |
Toyota RAV4 GXL Hybrid AWD | 8 |
Subaru Forester Hybrid L | 8 |