Subaru Forester vs Toyota Corolla Cross: Best SUV Comparison
The compact SUV segment in the UAE is competitive, with two models standing out for reliability and versatility: the Subaru Forester and Toyota Corolla Cross. The Forester is known for its standard all-wheel drive and off-road capability, while the Corolla Cross offers a compact footprint with Toyota's proven efficiency. In 2025, both will cater to GCC conditions with updated safety and tech.
This guide provides a head-to-head look at how these two SUVs stack up in dimensions, exterior design, interior features, engine performance, fuel economy, and safety to help you decide which one suits your needs for driving in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or beyond. At the end, we explore the best premium tyres that boost their performance on the UAE's hot roads, sandy dunes, and occasional rainy conditions.
Subaru Forester vs Toyota Corolla Cross: Dimensions Comparison
|
Dimensions |
Forester |
Corolla Cross |
|
Length |
4625 mm |
4460 mm |
|
Width |
1815 mm |
1825 mm |
|
Height |
1730 mm |
1620 mm |
|
Wheelbase |
2670 mm |
2640 mm |
|
Boot Space |
974 L |
487 L |
|
Ground Clearance |
220 mm |
160 mm |
The Forester is taller and longer with superior ground clearance (220 mm vs 160 mm), ideal for light desert trails near Al Ain. The Corolla Cross is more compact and lower, making it easier to park in Dubai malls. Both seat 5, but the Forester offers significantly more cargo space.
Subaru Forester vs Toyota Corolla Cross: Exterior Design Comparison
|
Features |
Forester |
Corolla Cross |
|
Lights |
LED |
LED |
|
Alloy Wheels |
17-inch |
17-inch |
|
Body Cladding |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Electric Tailgate |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Roof Rails |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Side Step |
No |
No |
|
Grille |
Hexagonal |
Trapezoidal |
|
Rear Light Bar |
No |
No |
|
Dual-Tone Colours |
Yes |
Yes |
The Forester features rugged cladding, high stance, and functional roof rails, projecting adventure-ready confidence. The Corolla Cross adopts a sleek, crossover look with sharp lines and a bold front fascia, blending sedan elegance with SUV utility. The Forester dominates off-road aesthetics, the Corolla Cross wins urban sophistication.
Subaru Forester vs Toyota Corolla Cross: Interior & Features Comparison
|
Features |
Forester |
Corolla Cross |
|
Instrument Cluster |
6.3-inch |
7-inch |
|
Infotainment |
8-inch Touchscreen |
9-inch Touchscreen |
|
Android Auto |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Apple CarPlay |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Wireless Charger |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Climate Control |
Dual-Zone |
Dual-Zone |
|
Powered Seats |
Front |
Front |
|
Ventilated Seats |
Front |
No |
|
Sunroof |
Panoramic |
Optional |
|
Rear Seat Displays |
No |
No |
|
Head-Up Display |
No |
No |
|
Audio System |
6-speaker |
6-speaker |
The Forester offers a spacious, upright cabin with excellent visibility and durable materials built for long journeys. The Corolla Cross counters with a modern, car-like dashboard and higher-quality soft-touch surfaces. The Forester maximizes headroom and storage, the Corolla Cross feels more refined and driver-focused.
Subaru Forester vs Toyota Corolla Cross: Engine & Performance Comparison
|
Specs |
Forester 2.0L |
Corolla Cross 1.8L |
Corolla Cross Hybrid |
|
Engine |
2.0L Boxer |
1.8L NA |
1.8L + Electric |
|
Power |
156 hp |
138 hp |
120 hp (system) |
|
Torque |
196 Nm |
172 Nm |
142 + 163 Nm |
|
0–100 km/h |
10.3 sec |
10.5 sec |
11.0 sec |
|
Transmission |
CVT |
CVT |
e-CVT |
|
Drivetrain |
Symmetrical AWD |
FWD |
FWD |
The Forester’s standard Symmetrical AWD and boxer engine deliver superior traction and stability on loose sand or wet roads. The Corolla Cross Hybrid prioritizes smooth, efficient power with seamless electric assist. The Forester is built for control; the Corolla Cross excels in relaxed city driving.
Subaru Forester vs Toyota Corolla Cross: Fuel Economy Comparison
|
Condition |
Forester 2.0L |
Corolla Cross 1.8L |
Corolla Cross Hybrid |
|
City |
10.5 km/L |
12.0 km/L |
22.0 km/L |
|
Highway |
13.0 km/L |
15.5 km/L |
25.0 km/L |
|
Combined |
11.5 km/L |
13.8 km/L |
23.5 km/L |
The Corolla Cross Hybrid dominates with class-leading efficiency, ideal for daily Dubai commutes and long Sharjah runs. Even the standard Corolla Cross outperforms the Forester in fuel savings. The Forester trades economy for AWD capability.
Subaru Forester vs Toyota Corolla Cross: Safety Comparison
|
Features |
Forester (EyeSight) |
Corolla Cross (TSS 3.0) |
|
Adaptive Cruise |
Yes + Lead Vehicle Start |
Full-range |
|
Lane Keep Assist |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Auto Emergency Braking |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Blind Spot Monitor |
Yes |
Optional |
|
Airbags |
7 |
7 |
|
360° Camera |
Top trim |
Available |
Both earn 5-star ratings. The Forester’s EyeSight uses dual cameras for superior low-light detection and includes standard blind-spot monitoring. The Corolla Cross’s TSS 3.0 adds Proactive Driving Assist. The Forester leads in standard active safety.
Which Premium Tyres Are Best for Subaru Forester?
Common tyre sizes include 225/60R17 and 225/55R18. For all-terrain use, the Bridgestone Dueler A/T Revo 3 (225/60R17) offers rugged traction for light desert runs. These Subaru Forester tyres maximize AWD performance in the UAE sand. The Bridgestone Dueler A/T Revo 3 leads for durability.
Which Premium Tyres Are Best for Toyota Corolla Cross?
Common tyre sizes include 215/60R17 and 225/50R18. For urban efficiency, the Michelin Primacy 4 (215/60R17) delivers low rolling resistance and silence. These Toyota Corolla Cross tyres enhance hybrid fuel savings. The Michelin Primacy 4 leads for quietness.
Why Choose PitStopArabia for Your SUV Tyres in UAE?
As the UAE’s leading online tyre store, PitStopArabia provides premium tyres for the Subaru Forester and Toyota Corolla Cross, including Michelin and Bridgestone, optimized for local roads. With free installation, competitive prices, and expert guidance, we keep your SUV performing at its best. Shop now at PitStopArabia.com and drive with confidence!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Subaru Forester have AWD in the UAE?
Yes. All Forester models come with standard Symmetrical AWD.
Is the Corolla Cross hybrid available in the UAE?
Yes. The Corolla Cross Hybrid is offered with a 1.8L e-CVT system.
Which has more boot space?
The Subaru Forester with 974 L vs 487 L in the Corolla Cross.
Which is better for off-road?
The Subaru Forester with 220 mm clearance and AWD vs 160 mm FWD in the Corolla Cross.
