2026 Subaru Forester vs 2026 Toyota RAV4:
Safety comparison — crash avoidance & crash test ratings
Side-by-side comparison of standard crash-avoidance technologies and NHTSA/IIHS crash test ratings. Driver assistance and convenience features are covered in the full comparison.
Quick take
The Subaru Forester holds a modest edge in overall safety (79 vs 72), reflecting slightly stronger crash-avoidance equipment or crash-test performance. Both vehicles are evenly matched on the 4 core crash-avoidance technologies. The Subaru Forester achieves a higher IIHS designation (Top Safety Pick+ vs Not awarded). Overall, the Subaru Forester has the stronger safety package, leading on 1 of 6 measured features versus 0 for the Toyota RAV4 (5 tied). Check the full comparison for cost of ownership, powertrain, and livability scores — safety is one of five pillars in the MotiveGrid Score.
Crash avoidance(0–0–4)
(Wins–Losses–Ties for Subaru Forester vs Toyota RAV4)
Crash test ratings(1–0–1)
(Wins–Losses–Ties for Subaru Forester vs Toyota RAV4)
Data reflects standard equipment at the base MSRP. Optional packages like Ford BlueCruise, GM Super Cruise, and Tesla FSD are not scored (Tesla FSD is the lone curated exception). Crash test data from NHTSA and IIHS. ADAS data verified against manufacturer spec pages.
See the full Subaru Forester vs Toyota RAV4 comparison — all five pillars including cost of ownership, powertrain, driver assistance, and livability: