A Honda Owner Is Ditching His CR-V For a Subaru Forester, Because It’s the Last Car He Buys, He Adds, “I Know CR Loves Subarus, and Ranks Them 10 Points Higher Than Honda”

Imagine a dedicated driver who has spent years behind the wheel of a reliable Honda CR-V suddenly decides to walk away from the brand he knows best. Looking toward retirement, he researches every detail to find a vehicle that offers superior winter handling and a top-tier reputation for longevity, finally choosing an SUV (Subaru Forester) that Consumer Reports currently favors by a significant margin.

To Ny on the Honda CR-V Community Facebook page says,

“I’m replacing my 2022 Honda CR-V Touring with a 2025 Subaru Forester Touring. I have been a decades-long subscriber to Consumer Reports and research all major purchases through them. I know they love all the Subarus and have them ranked about 10 points higher than Honda.”

“My CR-V is starting to get some mileage on her, and I’ll be retiring in about three years, so I was looking to get a replacement that would last me well into retirement, and even better if it’s the last car I ever have to buy!”

“I won’t be doing any off-roading in it. So long as the Forester handles well in winter weather (which I’m sure it does), that’s all I need.”

“I will want to trade within the next year. I’m looking now because of end-of-year inventory clearance.”

Why This Honda Owner Is Making the 10-Point Jump to Subaru

As a senior reporter for Torque News with 30 years in the automotive industry, I have seen brands rise and fall in consumers' eyes. When a "decades-long" Honda fan decides to jump ship, it is not just a whim—it is a calculated move based on data, reliability, and future-proofing. This specific owner, "To Ny" from the Honda CR-V Community, is targeting the 2025 Subaru Forester Touring as his final automotive purchase before retirement.

His reasoning? A 10-point gap in Consumer Reports rankings and the legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system that gives him peace of mind for winter commuting without the need for rugged off-roading.

The Consumer Reports Factor: Data Over Brand Loyalty

For many buyers, brand loyalty is a powerful force. However, for a savvy researcher, the numbers do not lie. Consumer Reports has historically praised the Forester for its outward visibility, ease of entry, and simple controls. While the Honda CR-V remains a top contender, the Forester often edges it out in "Owner Satisfaction" and "Road Test" scores.

In my years of reporting, I have noted that Subaru has mastered the art of building a "rational" car. It is not about being the fastest or the flashiest; it is about being the most practical. I recently analyzed how this battle plays out in my report: Head To Head 2024 Subaru Forester Vs. 2024 Honda CR-V, And The Winner Is.., where I detail why the Forester often takes the trophy despite the CR-V's strong sales.

Why the 2025 Subaru Forester Is a Retirement Winner

Retirement planning involves more than just a 401(k); it involves choosing a vehicle that will not become a financial burden in ten years. The 2025 Forester represents the sixth generation of this SUV, and it comes with a 10% stiffer chassis and significantly improved sound insulation. For an owner looking for a "last car," these refinements matter.

The 2025 Subaru Forester Touring specifically offers:

• Standard Symmetrical AWD: Unlike the CR-V, where AWD is often an add-on, every Forester (except the BRZ) comes standard with the best system in the business.
• EyeSight Safety Tech: The new version includes a wide-angle mono camera to better detect pedestrians and cyclists.
• Ease of Access: Large door openings and a high seating position make it one of the best vehicles for aging drivers.

If you are considering making a similar switch, you should check out my deep dive into the latest updates: The 2025 Subaru Forester, a significant leap forward from its 2024 predecessor, has successfully addressed a major concern of the previous model. This pioneering revision, a first for any Subaru model, is sure to be warmly welcomed by all customers. 

Winter Performance: The Subaru Calling Card

The owner mentioned he does not need off-road chops, but he does need winter reliability. This is where Subaru separates itself from the pack. While the CR-V uses a "slip and grip" system that engages the rear wheels when the front ones lose traction, Subaru’s system is always active, distributing power to all wheels constantly.

In my experience testing vehicles in the Colorado snow, there is a distinct difference in how these two SUVs handle a blizzard. The Forester feels more "planted" and less likely to hunt for traction. This confidence is a major reason why buyers in snowy climates are willing to trade in their Hondas. I covered this in detail when looking at how various models stack up against the elements: Subaru Forester Is Better Than 7 And Worse Than 4 New SUVs In The Snow.

Advice for Prospective Buyers

If you are like "To Ny" and looking to buy your "forever car" during an end-of-year clearance, here are my recommendations:

1. Skip the Base Trim: If you want this car to last 15 years, get the Premium or Limited trims. The Base model lacks the All-Weather Package (heated seats/mirrors) and the dual-function X-Mode that makes Subarus so capable.

2. Maintenance is Key: The Boxer engine is reliable, but it requires diligent oil changes. I recommend 5,000-mile intervals rather than the factory-suggested 6,000 to ensure longevity.

3. Check Insurance Rates: Interestingly, Subarus often have lower insurance premiums due to their high safety ratings, which is a nice "retirement bonus" for your wallet.

Key Takeaways

• Reliability Ratings: Consumer Reports currently ranks the Forester significantly higher than the CR-V in several key metrics.
• Winter Dominance: Symmetrical AWD provides a superior feel in snow compared to the CR-V's reactive system.
• Retirement Friendly: The 2025 model's improvements in noise reduction and seat comfort make it an ideal long-term companion.
• Inventory Clearance: Buying now can save thousands as dealers move 2024 stock to make room for the 2025 and 2026 models.
   

What CR-V and Forester Owners Are Saying

The debate between Honda and Subaru is alive and well on social platforms. Here is what real owners are reporting:

"Traded in 2016 CR-V for 2025 Forester and happy as heck, and AWD no comparison (I live upstate NY)." Reddit User on r/Subaru

"The suspension eats up a lot of the bumps on the road... I actually felt the CR-V was more sluggish." Reddit User on r/WhatCarShouldIBuy

"Comfort-wise, the CR-V is the best, but the Subaru is significantly better in the snow, so much so that I'd choose a Subaru Forester over a CR-V any day." Reddit User on r/CRV

The Wrap Up

The transition from a 2022 Honda CR-V to a 2025 Subaru Forester is a smart, data-driven move for someone entering retirement. By prioritizing visibility, winter safety, and the high reliability marks from Consumer Reports, this owner is setting himself up for a stress-free decade of driving. While Honda makes a fantastic product, Subaru’s focus on all-weather capability and owner satisfaction gives it the edge for those who want their next car to be their last.

What Would You Do? 

Would you ditch a relatively new Honda for the peace of mind of a top-ranked Subaru, or does brand loyalty keep you in the Honda family? Click the red link below to write your comment and join the community in sharing experiences.

Next Up: Which is the better compact SUV, the 2023 Subaru Forester or Honda CR-V? Check out the head-to-head competition and see if there is a winner. Read the full story here.

With over 30 years of industry experience, Denis Flierl brings an insider’s perspective to Torque News, where he has been a Senior Reporter since 2012. Before picking up the pen, Denis consulted for the automotive industry's biggest brands and honed his skills as a test driver. He cuts through the noise to deliver the latest auto news, compelling owner stories, and the expert analysis necessary to navigate today's changing automotive market.

Have a tip or question? Follow me on X @DenisFlierl and @WorldsCoolestRides, or connect with me on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Photo credit: Denis Flierl via To Ny