used to have a gen 1 in previous marriage.
It was more fun than you'd think--- very scrappy, very nimble. I can see the off road appeal. the AWD component was reliable--- needs fluid changes by the book--- and was quite adept at keeping it moving through moderate (7-10") snow and other slick stuff.
I would not recommend it for heavy off-road thrashing where the AWD is going to be used continuously, like endless miles of thick soup--- I suspect that would cook the gearbox. but for regular running of trails, I think it would be fine.
There is adequate torque down low. at least ours had it. IDK if our exh manifold was stock or not, but it was basically a 4-1 tubular header. pretty cool if it was oem. It did give it some growl on long hill climbs.
That said, it's not a jeep. it was lightweight which made it nimble, but that's different from heavy and "tractor." both have their places, but they will be hard to compare. Be careful of the lower suspension bits in the tail off pavement.
comparing it to a subaru? depends on the year of the 'ru and transmission. subaru has made several different AWD mechanisms, some better than others. The CRV has ground clearance right out of the gate... where most subies still sit a little low and would need a lift. Not too hard to do, but more work. Having owned a 97 'ru (and a '90) and a 97 CRV, I'll say that I personally prefer subarus--- they are a little heavier vehicles--- though the shape of the CRV and it's stock ground clearance might make it a little easier to mod for light trail work-- those pics above outdo anything I've seen in a modded 'ru. CRV also had better bottom-end torque, which is NEEDED. have fun!!!