I was skeptical at first. We have a 17 outback and a 21 Crosstrek Sport with CVT’s. We also have a 13 Suzuki Sportback with a CVT with >90K miles. The CVT’s in the Subaru’s are more refined than the Jatco CVT unit in the Suzuki. The Suzuki however has been bullet proof. Don’t expect high performance from the Subaru 2.5 NA vehicles equipped with CVTs. They drive very well, are comfortable, handle and ride exceptionally well and we don’t hear noticeable CVT whine. Both are exceptional long distance drive vehicles; of course great around town as well. The Subaru’s have >45k miles and I expect them to be reliable unless we are unlucky. Build quality is also exceptional.
The CVTF-III is for the Crosstrek; the Outback takes CVTF-II. The Crosstrek is due for a fluid change. I replaced the fluid in the Outback over Christmas break last year.
As for Toyota, I drove two 2025 Camry’s (hybrids) recently (rentals whilst on a project). They can truly fly and are built well; I liked them. The Camry is also available with AWD. We are a Subaru family however.