2026 Honda CR-V vs. 2026 Subaru Forester: Which SUV Is Better?
Honda CR-V or Subaru Forester
The 2026 Honda CR-V is a compelling choice over the 2026 Subaru Forester for compact SUV shoppers who prioritize horsepower, maximum cargo capacity, hybrid performance and available technology. The 2026 Honda CR-V starts at $30,920 MSRP, while the 2026 Subaru Forester starts at $29,995 MSRP. Although the Forester has a slightly lower starting price and standard all-wheel drive, the CR-V counters with 190 horsepower from its gasoline powertrain versus 180 horsepower for the gasoline Forester, plus an available 204-horsepower two-motor hybrid powertrain.
Honda also publishes 76.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume for the CR-V compared with 74.4 cubic feet for the Forester. Add available Google built-in, available Bose premium audio and the choice of gasoline or Honda's two-motor hybrid powertrain, and the CR-V gives SUV shoppers several strong reasons to put Honda at the top of their comparison list.
Pricing Disclaimer: Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) is based on manufacturer information available at the time of publication. MSRP excludes applicable destination and handling charges, taxes, title, license, registration, options, accessories and other charges unless otherwise stated. Dealer sets actual price. Pricing, equipment and availability are subject to change. Contact Honda of Muskogee for current pricing and availability.
2026 Honda CR-V vs. Subaru Forester at a Glance
| Comparison | 2026 Honda CR-V | 2026 Subaru Forester |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $30,920 | $29,995 |
| Gasoline Horsepower | 190 hp | 180 hp |
| Hybrid System Power | 204 hp | 194 hp estimated |
| Maximum Cargo Volume | 76.5 cu. ft. | 74.4 cu. ft. |
| All-Wheel Drive | Available Real Time AWD | Standard Symmetrical AWD |
| Google built-in | Available | Not listed as available in Honda's comparison |
| Available Premium Audio | Bose with 12 speakers | Harman Kardon with 11 speakers |
Comparison Disclaimer: Comparison information is based on manufacturer-published information available at the time of publication. Specifications, trims, equipment and availability may change. Some features are limited to specific trims or configurations. Verify current vehicle specifications before purchase.
Which Has More Horsepower: Honda CR-V or Subaru Forester?
The 2026 Honda CR-V has more published gasoline horsepower than the 2026 Subaru Forester. Honda rates the CR-V's turbocharged gasoline engine at 190 horsepower, while Subaru rates the gasoline Forester's 2.5-liter engine at 180 horsepower.
That gives the CR-V a 10-horsepower advantage for shoppers comparing conventional gasoline-powered versions of these compact SUVs.
Honda also offers Real Time AWD for shoppers who want additional all-weather traction. Buyers who don't require all-wheel drive can choose a CR-V configuration without it rather than having AWD included across the lineup.
Which Hybrid Has More Power?
The 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid also has the advantage in published total system output. Honda lists its two-motor hybrid powertrain at 204 horsepower, while Subaru lists the Forester Hybrid at an estimated 194 horsepower.
That makes the CR-V particularly attractive for shoppers who want electrification without giving up responsive performance. Honda's two-motor hybrid system is available across multiple CR-V hybrid configurations, giving buyers additional flexibility when selecting features and equipment.
The hybrid powertrain is one of the CR-V's biggest strengths because Honda has positioned it as more than simply an efficiency option. With 204 horsepower, the CR-V Hybrid combines electrification with more published system output than the Forester Hybrid.
Which SUV Has More Maximum Cargo Space?
The 2026 Honda CR-V provides more maximum cargo volume than the Subaru Forester according to manufacturer comparison data. Honda lists up to 76.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume for the CR-V compared with up to 74.4 cubic feet for the Forester.
For compact SUV shoppers, cargo flexibility is often a major purchasing consideration. Extra space can be useful for luggage, groceries, sports equipment, camping gear, home-improvement supplies and other items that need to travel with you.
The CR-V also features a reclining, fold-down 60/40 split rear seatback, allowing drivers to reconfigure the cabin as passenger and cargo needs change.
Does the Subaru Forester Have More Passenger Space?
The Forester has an advantage in published maximum passenger volume, while the CR-V has the advantage in maximum cargo volume. Honda's comparison lists 106.0 cubic feet of maximum passenger volume for the CR-V and 110.8 cubic feet for the Forester.
That makes this an area where buyers should consider how they actually use their SUV. Shoppers who place maximum emphasis on published passenger volume may appreciate the Forester, while drivers who prioritize maximum cargo capacity have an advantage with the CR-V.
Honda's combination of passenger accommodations and up to 76.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume makes the CR-V an especially versatile option for daily driving, errands, family use and road trips.
Which Offers Better Available Technology?
The 2026 Honda CR-V offers several technology advantages that help distinguish it from the Forester. Honda lists Google built-in as available on the CR-V, along with wireless Apple CarPlay compatibility, wireless Android Auto compatibility and a wireless phone charger.
Honda's current CR-V lineup includes a 9-inch color touch-screen even on the LX. This gives buyers a useful technology foundation without requiring them to move immediately into the highest trim level.
Available Google built-in takes the experience further by integrating compatible Google services directly into the vehicle.
Which SUV Has the Better Available Premium Audio System?
Honda offers an available Bose Premium Sound System with 12 speakers in the CR-V. Honda's manufacturer comparison lists the Forester's available Harman Kardon premium system with 11 speakers.
Speaker count isn't the only consideration when evaluating an audio system, but the available 12-speaker Bose system adds another premium technology feature to the CR-V lineup.
Does the 2026 Honda CR-V Have All-Wheel Drive?
Yes. The 2026 Honda CR-V offers available Real Time AWD. Subaru equips the Forester with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, so shoppers who consider standard AWD essential may see that as a Forester advantage.
Honda's approach provides buyers with more drivetrain choice. Drivers who want AWD can select it on compatible CR-V configurations, while shoppers who don't need it aren't necessarily required to purchase an AWD configuration.
For Oklahoma drivers who regularly encounter changing road and weather conditions, an AWD-equipped CR-V can provide an appealing combination of traction, versatility and Honda performance.
What Are Some Key 2026 Honda CR-V Trim Choices?
The 2026 CR-V lineup gives shoppers gasoline and hybrid choices at multiple price and equipment levels. Current Honda-published trims include options such as LX, EX, EX-L and several hybrid configurations.
| CR-V Trim | Starting MSRP | Selected Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| CR-V LX | $30,920 | 190-hp turbocharged engine, available Real Time AWD, 9-inch touch-screen, wireless phone charger |
| CR-V EX | $33,150 | Moonroof, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, power driver's seat |
| CR-V EX-L | $35,400 | Leather-trimmed seats, power tailgate, parking sensors, power front seats |
| CR-V Sport Hybrid | $35,630 | 204-hp two-motor hybrid powertrain, 18-inch gloss-black alloy wheels, hybrid performance |
Pricing Disclaimer: Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price is based on current Honda information and excludes applicable destination charges, taxes, title, registration, options, accessories and other fees unless otherwise stated. Pricing, features and availability are subject to change. Dealer sets actual price. Contact Honda of Muskogee for current information.
What Safety and Driver-Assist Features Does the CR-V Offer?
The 2026 Honda CR-V includes Honda Sensing driver-assistive and safety technologies. Honda lists systems including Collision Mitigation Braking System, Road Departure Mitigation System, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, Lane Keeping Assist System and Traffic Sign Recognition.
Depending on trim, additional features include Blind Spot Information with Cross Traffic Monitor, parking sensors and Low-Speed Braking Control.
Driver Assistance Disclaimer: Driver-assistance technologies are not substitutes for safe and attentive driving. Features may have limitations and availability may vary by trim and equipment. See Honda's official vehicle information and owner's documentation for complete details.
Why Choose the 2026 Honda CR-V?
The CR-V makes a strong case because Honda combines performance, cargo flexibility, available electrification and useful technology in one compact SUV lineup.
- 190-horsepower turbocharged gasoline engine
- Available 204-horsepower two-motor hybrid powertrain
- Up to 76.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume
- Available Real Time AWD
- Available Google built-in
- Available Bose Premium Sound System with 12 speakers
- Wireless Apple CarPlay compatibility
- Wireless Android Auto compatibility
- Wireless phone charger
- Honda Sensing driver-assistive technologies
The ability to choose between a 190-horsepower turbocharged gasoline engine and a 204-horsepower hybrid powertrain is especially significant. Buyers aren't limited to a single approach to performance and efficiency.
2026 Honda CR-V vs. Subaru Forester: Which Should You Buy?
For shoppers prioritizing horsepower, maximum cargo capacity, hybrid output and available connected technology, the 2026 Honda CR-V has several important advantages over the 2026 Subaru Forester.
The Forester deserves recognition for standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, its slightly lower base MSRP and greater published maximum passenger volume. However, Honda answers with more gasoline horsepower, more hybrid system horsepower, greater maximum cargo volume and available technologies such as Google built-in.
The CR-V's available 204-horsepower hybrid system may be the biggest reason to choose Honda. It gives buyers a compact SUV that combines electrified driving with strong output while preserving the everyday cargo versatility people expect from a CR-V.
For drivers deciding between these two SUVs, experiencing the CR-V firsthand can help demonstrate why Honda remains such a strong choice in the compact SUV segment.
Shop Honda CR-V Models at Honda of Muskogee
Honda of Muskogee serves SUV shoppers in Muskogee and surrounding communities who want to explore the Honda CR-V and the rest of the Honda lineup.
Explore new Honda models at Honda of Muskogee to research the current Honda lineup and find the vehicle that fits your needs.
Ready to take the next step? Explore Honda financing and leasing options through the Honda of Muskogee finance center.
Before choosing your next Honda, view current new Honda specials to see available opportunities on select new Honda vehicles.
2026 Honda CR-V vs. Subaru Forester FAQs
Which has more gasoline horsepower, the Honda CR-V or Subaru Forester?
The 2026 Honda CR-V has more published gasoline horsepower. Honda lists its turbocharged gasoline engine at 190 horsepower, while Subaru lists the gasoline Forester at 180 horsepower.
Which hybrid has more horsepower, the CR-V or Forester?
The 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid has a 204-horsepower two-motor hybrid powertrain. Subaru lists the 2026 Forester Hybrid at an estimated 194 total system horsepower.
Which has more maximum cargo space?
Honda lists up to 76.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume for the 2026 CR-V, compared with Subaru's published maximum of 74.4 cubic feet for the Forester.
Does the Honda CR-V offer all-wheel drive?
Yes. Real Time AWD is available on the 2026 Honda CR-V. Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard on the Forester.
Does the Honda CR-V have Google built-in?
Google built-in is available on select 2026 Honda CR-V configurations, providing compatible integrated Google services.
Does the Honda CR-V have wireless Apple CarPlay?
Yes. Honda lists wireless Apple CarPlay compatibility and wireless Android Auto compatibility among the CR-V's technology features.
How much does the 2026 Honda CR-V start at?
The 2026 Honda CR-V LX starts at $30,920 MSRP based on current Honda-published information. Applicable destination charges, taxes, registration, options and other charges are additional.
Where can I shop for a Honda CR-V in Oklahoma?
Drivers can contact Honda of Muskogee in Muskogee, Oklahoma, to explore current CR-V availability, compare gasoline and hybrid configurations, discuss financing and schedule a test drive.
Vehicle Information Disclaimer: Vehicle specifications, horsepower, cargo measurements, MSRP, technology and equipment referenced in this article are based on Honda and Subaru manufacturer information available at the time of publication and are subject to change. Some features are optional or limited to specific trims and configurations. Contact Honda of Muskogee for current Honda specifications, pricing, incentives and vehicle availability.
