The Forester was all new for 2019, so Subaru hasn't made many changes for 2020; however, there are a few new features that buyers might find interesting. The standard adaptive cruise control system gains a lane-centering feature, the tire-pressure monitor now displays the pressure in each tire, an LED lamp illuminates the license plate on all models, and a rear-seat reminder alerts the driver to check the back seat upon exiting the vehicle if the rear doors were opened prior to the start of the trip. Premium models now come standard with the contents of last year's All-Weather package—heated exterior mirrors, heated front seats, and a windshield wiper de-icer—and touring models get LED cargo-area dome lights.
Pros Good at most everything that matters to crossover buyers, spacious cabin, relaxed ride and handling.
Cons Lethargic acceleration, uninspired design, few luxuries come standard.
The 2020 Subaru Forester comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: continuously variable-speed automatic.New lane centering function added to list of standard driving aids.All-Weather package now standard on Premium models.
Pros Standard all-wheel drive A full complement of driver assist features is standard Enhanced off-road capability thanks to better-than-average ground clearance Generous cargo capacity
Cons Engine is underpowered Modest tow rating limits maximum utility
It looks visually similar to the last model, so has enough changed to entice buyers into the all-new Subaru Forester?
Pros Loaded with safety and convenience features Ultra-wide passenger door opening aperture Full-time all-wheel drive system Fuel efficient four-cylinder petrol engine
Cons Archaic three-year warranty 12,500km service intervals Higher starting price
The 2020 Toyota RAV4 covers more bases this year with smartphone compatibility and tough-looking off-road trims.
Pros Great looks New smartphone compatibility Tough-looking TRD Off-road Good cargo space Standard active safety features
Cons Compromised interior Off-road hardware more about looks Expensive top trims Cheap-feeling plastics
Toyota is introducing the TRD Off-Road model for 2020, which comes with unique 18-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, a TRD Off-Road suspension kit with red coil springs, and plenty of TRD logos dotting the interior and exterior. Elsewhere in the lineup, Android Auto capability becomes a standard feature as does SiriusXM satellite radio; XLE models now come with a power-adjustable driver's seat but lose the standard moonroof, which becomes part of the optional Convenience package. The mid-range Adventure model gains a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, but that model's power liftgate is now optional. Limited trims now come with the premium JBL audio system as standard.
Pros Rugged styling, available hybrid model, plenty of standard safety tech.
Cons Overly spartan base model, rough-edged engine noise, mundane driving dynamics.
The 2020 Toyota RAV4 comes with front wheel drive, and all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.New TRD Off-Road trim,Android Auto added to Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa compatibility.Power driver's seat now standard on XLE grade.
Pros Quiet interior and comfortable ride quality Abundant cargo and passenger space Controls are easy to use
Cons Lackluster power from base powertrain No other engines available Uncomfortable front passenger seat Vague steering means you'll sometimes misjudge your inputs