2026 Subaru Forester vs 2026 Toyota RAV4 near Denver, CO
Side-by-Side Comparison
| 2026 Subaru Forester | 2026 Toyota RAV4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrains | 2.5L gas (180 hp) or hybrid (194 hp) | Hybrid only (226 hp FWD / 236 hp AWD) or plug-in hybrid (320 hp) |
| All-wheel drive | Standard on every trim | Standard on some trims; front-wheel drive on others |
| Non-hybrid option | Yes | No |
| Off-road-focused trim | Wilderness: 9.3 in. ground clearance, 3,500-lb towing | Woodland |
Specifications are based on manufacturer-published information for the 2026 model year and may vary by trim and equipment. Confirm details with our sales team before purchase.
Standard AWD on Every Forester
Every 2026 Forester, whether gas, hybrid, or Wilderness, comes with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. The redesigned 2026 RAV4 offers all-wheel drive, but several trims come standard with front-wheel drive, so you'll need to choose carefully if AWD is a must for your I-70 ski trips.
Power and Powertrain Choice
Toyota made the 2026 RAV4 hybrid-only, and its hybrid system makes more horsepower than the Forester's. The plug-in hybrid version adds even more power and electric-only driving. The Forester takes a different approach and gives you the choice of a conventional gas engine or a hybrid, which some buyers prefer for simplicity or a lower starting price.
Built for the Trail
For drivers heading up forest roads in the Front Range, the Forester Wilderness is purpose-built, with 9.3 inches of ground clearance and a 3,500-pound towing rating. Combine that with excellent outward visibility from the Forester's upright design, and it's a strong choice for Colorado adventures.
Compare Them for Yourself
Both are excellent SUVs, and the right one depends on your priorities. Test drive the Forester at Schomp Subaru, 580 S Havana St in Aurora, a short drive from Denver. Learn more on our 2026 Forester page.
Getting to Schomp Subaru from Denver
Schomp Subaru is at 580 S Havana St, Aurora, CO 80012, on the east side of the metro between Alameda and Mississippi Avenues. Most Denver drivers can reach us in about 20 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic, which makes it easy to come see the Forester in person.
From downtown Denver: Head east on Alameda Avenue for about nine miles. Turn right (south) onto Havana Street, and Schomp Subaru will be on your left shortly after Alameda.
From I-25: Take I-225 north toward Aurora, exit at Mississippi Avenue, and head west to Havana Street. Turn right (north), and we're on your right before you reach Alameda.
From Denver International Airport: Take Peña Boulevard to I-70 west, then I-225 south. Exit at Alameda Avenue, head west to Havana Street, and turn left (south).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2026 RAV4 still available with a gas engine?
No. The 2026 RAV4 is offered only as a hybrid or plug-in hybrid. The 2026 Forester is available with a gas engine or as a hybrid.
Does every 2026 Forester have all-wheel drive?
Yes. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard on every Forester, including the hybrid and Wilderness trims.
Which Forester is best for off-road driving near Denver?
The Forester Wilderness, with 9.3 inches of ground clearance, off-road hardware, and a 3,500-pound towing rating.
