Toyota Matrix vs. Subaru Forester Review

Cost
The destination charge is a standard charge for transporting the vehicle from its point of origin to the dealer. It costs roughly the same to get the Matrix to the dealership as the Subaru Forester. As far as MSRP, the Subaru Forester costs tremendously more than the Toyota Matrix. The Toyota Matrix will save you a bundle at the pump every year compared to the Subaru.

Utility
There's no clear winner between the Subaru Forester and the Toyota Matrix in terms of hauling capacity. Neither the Toyota Matrix nor the Subaru Forester has a marked advantage with respect to seating capacity.

Comfort
Taller drivers will markedly enjoy the extra head room in the Matrix's front cabin compared to the Subaru. The ampler interior dimensions of the Toyota make it markedly roomier for your passengers than the Subaru Forester.

Dimensions
Your wallet will hurt more every time you fill up the Subaru than the Toyota Matrix because of its more capacious tank. The Subaru Forester rides lower than the Toyota Matrix, which is a good thing for its center of gravity and ease of access. The Toyota Matrix and the Subaru compete for the same parking spaces.

Performance
When it comes to horsepower, the Forester packs quite a punch and will knock the Toyota down a few rungs. On the other hand, note that high horsepower engines often command higher insurance premiums.

Handling
The Subaru Forester and the Toyota Matrix have approximately similar tires. With their similar turning circles, the Subaru Forester and the Matrix very likely handle roughly the same into and out of tight spots.

Drivetrain
The Subaru has a larger engine than the Toyota. Remember that smaller engines typically get better gas mileage, but smaller engines can be stressed more. Torque is the force that lets you accelerate quickly, and in this respect, the Subaru Forester is considerably more powerful than the Toyota Matrix. The Toyota Matrix could learn a lesson or two from the Subaru Forester in terms of torque.

Overview
The Subaru Forester and the Matrix have the same basic after-sale protection.