I’m stuck deciding between a 3rd gen Forester (around 2010) and a 3rd gen RAV4 V6. Which one is better for light off-roading? Most of the time it’ll be on regular roads (80%), but I want something good for camping and going off-track occasionally (20%). I’ve heard mixed things about both. What’s the better choice?
Do you really need the off-road ability? If not, I’d go with the RAV4. Those older ones were solid and reliable… way better built back then compared to now.
Slurry said:
Do you really need the off-road ability? If not, I’d go with the RAV4. Those older ones were solid and reliable… way better built back then compared to now.
So are you saying the RAV4 is not great off-road? I wouldn’t be doing anything crazy, just some sand and dirt tracks on road trips.
@Amir
Yeah, the RAV4 isn’t really made for off-roading. Its 4WD system is okay but not as capable as what you’d get with the Forester.
Both are good choices. It really depends on what you value more. The Forester will probably handle snow better if you live somewhere that matters.
The 2009-2010 Foresters (non-XT models) have common issues like head gasket failure and need a timing belt/water pump replacement every 105,000 miles or 10 years. Models from 2011-2013 sometimes burn oil. Check if wheel bearings and lower control arm bushings have been replaced if you’re looking at used ones.
@irmah
What about the XT models? Are they any better?
Amir said:
@irmah
What about the XT models? Are they any better?
XT models are probably the most reliable of the Foresters. Issues like head gaskets or oil burning are rare for them. They are turbocharged, so they need more frequent oil changes and are a bit more complex, but they’re still a solid choice. They also need timing belt/water pump replacement at the same intervals.
I’ve got a 2010 XT with 150,000 miles. It’s aging but still a dependable daily driver. The body has rusted a lot (I live in a snowy area), but the drivetrain keeps going strong.
@irmah
Overall though, do you think the RAV4 is more reliable?
Amir said:
@irmah
Overall though, do you think the RAV4 is more reliable?
Yeah, I’d say the RAV4 wins in terms of reliability. But personally, I’d still choose the Forester for the driving experience.
@irmah
Thanks for your advice!
The Forester is way better off-road, especially in rough conditions like mud or snow. But if you’re in Australia, you probably don’t see much of that.
The Forester is more fun to drive and has better character. That said, the RAV4 is more reliable and, honestly, I think it looks better too.
The SH Forester is definitely better off-road. But the RAV4 handles better on paved roads and has more power with that V6. Honestly, even though I love Foresters, I’d take the V6 RAV4 over the SH Forester. If I had the choice, though, I’d pick an older SG Forester over either of them!
@Brett
Are the SG models safe enough? This will be my first car (in Australia), and my parents want me to get something newer and safer. I’d never get one with a CVT though, so no SJ models for me.
@Brett
The SH Forester XT was also an option. It’s not as powerful as the V6 RAV4, but it’s still got plenty of punch.