Toyota Corolla Cross vs Subaru Forester, Which One is the Better Buy?

In Malaysia's SUV market, many buyers compare Toyota Corolla Cross and Subaru Forester when choosing a car. Both cars are quite similar in price and positioning, so today we will do a detailed comparison from multiple aspects to help you save time doing research.

Price and Versions

The OTR price of Toyota Corolla Cross in Malaysia is RM 133,800 - 148,800, with a total of 3 versions, including 2026 HEV 1.8L GR Sport (RM 148,800), 2026 HEV 1.8L Standard (RM 140,800), 2026 1.8L Standard (RM 133,800), etc.

The OTR price of Subaru Forester in Malaysia is RM 174,000 - 197,000, with a total of 3 versions, including 2024 2.0L S EyeSight GT Edition (RM 189,538), 2024 2.0L S EyeSight (RM 177,538), 2024 2.0L L EyeSight (RM 167,538), etc.

In terms of price, the starting price of Toyota Corolla Cross is indeed RM 40,200 cheaper than Subaru Forester. If your budget is limited, Toyota's entry-level version can already meet daily needs. However, note that the few thousand difference might involve compromises in features, it depends on your specific needs.

Power and Fuel Economy

Toyota Corolla Cross is equipped with 1.5L Turbo, 140 hp. Official fuel consumption 7.0 L/100km.

Subaru Forester is equipped with 2.0L 4-cyl, 170 hp. Official fuel consumption 8.0 L/100km.

In terms of power, Subaru Forester's 2.0L 4-cyl has 30 more horsepower than Toyota Corolla Cross's 1.5L Turbo. However, for daily city driving, both cars have sufficient power, you won't feel underpowered.

Space and Comfort

Toyota Corolla Cross body length 4400 mm, trunk 400 L.

Subaru Forester body length 4400 mm, trunk 400 L.

The dimensions of both cars are almost the same, cabin space difference is minimal. For this class of cars, it is fully adequate for daily use.

Features and Technology

Toyota Corolla Cross uses FWD drive mode.

Subaru Forester uses FWD drive mode.

Both cars have the same drive mode, both are FWD, daily driving experience will not differ significantly.

Conclusion

Overall, Toyota Corolla Cross and Subaru Forester are both very good models in the Malaysian market. Which one to choose mainly depends on your personal needs and budget. We suggest doing your homework, comparing quotes from multiple car dealerships, and then test driving to make the final decision. Buying a car is a major matter, spending time doing research is never wrong.