Subaru Forester vs Honda CR-V: Ultimate AWD vs Power Duel on Saudi Roads

Saudi Arabia: The battle between the Subaru Forester and the Honda CR-V reflects two very different approaches to the compact SUV segment. The one clearly focuses on permanent all-wheel drive and rugged build quality with superior stability; the other emphasises turbocharged performance and city comfort. For buyers driving daily in Riyadh and heading out on long highway or desert trips on weekends, the choice goes beyond brochures. We compare traction, performance, comfort, efficiency, and everyday usability to see which SUV truly fits Saudi driving conditions better.

The Core Split: Symmetrical AWD vs Turbocharged Flexibility

The Forester comes standard with Symmetrical AWD across all variants. Every wheel gets power, and every corner gets grip. The 2.0-litre naturally aspirated engine makes 156 hp of power and 196 Nm of torque. In no way can they be described as earth-shattering numbers. But they are here to offer a continuously variable transmission paired with that full-time AWD system.

On the other hand, the Honda takes a different approach, starting the CR-V with front-wheel drive in the DX and LX trims. The AWD only shows up on the EX and Touring variants. Honda counters its approach with a smaller, turbocharged 1.5-litre engine that outperforms its size. The turbo delivers 190 hp at 6,000 rpm and 243 Nm of torque spread across 1,700 to 5,000 rpm. That torque band matters, as the turbo provides low-end grunt for city overtaking. The turbo also offers high-rev flexibility for highway merges.

Engine and Performance Comparison

Specification	Subaru Forester	Honda CR-V
Engine Size	1,995 cc	1,498 cc
Power Output	156 hp @ 6,000 rpm	190 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque	196 Nm @ 4,000 rpm	243 Nm @ 1,700-5,000 rpm
Drivetrain	Symmetrical AWD (standard)	FWD (DX, LX) / AWD (EX, Touring)
Transmission	Lineartronic CVT	Automatic CVT
Fuel Efficiency	7.4 L/100km	6.5-6.8 L/100km

Where the Turbo Shines

On Riyadh's King Fahd Road or Jeddah's coastal highways, the CR-V feels easier and more eager. That turbocharged torque curve kicks in early. Overtaking hardly requires downshifting or waiting for revs to climb.

However, the Forester feels measured. The naturally aspirated engine needs revs to deliver power. The CVT drones under hard acceleration, but there's predictability and almost no turbo lag. You feel the pure, linear, reliable power delivery that some drivers prefer on long desert highways.

What does the mileage look like? The Forester claims between 13 and 14 km/L. The CR-V quotes roughly 14-15 km/L. Honda wins on paper, though Saudi heat with heavy AC use narrows the gap.

Where AWD Delivers

Take either SUV into the desert, and the philosophy gap widens, which is quite noticeable the more you drive. The Forester's full-time AWD has no hesitation; the power goes to all four wheels immediately. The 220 mm of ground clearance is quite decent, and be it sand, gravel, or wet roads, the Forester grips and goes. The CR-V's part-time AWD engages when sensors detect slip. You can feel a minor lag. The system decides, then reacts. But push harder; you feel the real difference. If you stick to paved roads with occasional dirt access, the CR-V handles it fine. If you regularly venture into softer terrain, the Forester's permanent AWD matters.

Five Seats vs Seven

Honda offers a third row. The CR-V seats seven, tight for adults but workable for kids. Families with multiple children gain flexibility. The Forester seats five. Rear legroom is generous, but if you need more than five seats, the decision is made. Both offer panoramic sunroofs and modern safety tech. Honda Sensing and Subaru EyeSight deliver adaptive cruise, lane keeping, and automatic emergency braking.

Price Reality: Where the Numbers Land

Model	Base Trim Price	Top Trim Price	Drivetrain
Subaru Forester	SAR 1,32,900	SAR 1,32,900	Symmetrical AWD
Honda CR-V	SAR 1,29,835	SAR 167,785	FWD/AWD

The Forester's pricing is straightforward with just two variants, both AWD, SAR 132,900. You pay for AWD whether you want it or not.

Honda spreads wider; the base DX at SAR 129,835 undercuts the Forester, but it's front-wheel drive. The EX costs SAR 156,285, and the Touring costs SAR 167,785. AWD-equipped CR-Vs cost more than the Forester.

The Verdict: No Clean Winner

The Forester suits buyers who value mechanical simplicity, permanent AWD, and predictable performance. It's not flashy or especially powerful, but it is honest. The CR-V appeals to buyers chasing flexibility. More power and more seats. On paper, it offers better fuel economy. But you pay extra for AWD, and it's not the same full-time system Subaru offers.

For families focused on seating and on-road refinement, the CR-V makes sense. For drivers who regularly face mixed terrain or want AWD peace of mind, the Forester delivers.

Choose based on how you actually drive.

Also Read: Can the Kia Sonet Beat Its Rivals in Saudi Arabia?