Subaru Forester vs Outback: Detailed Comparison
When deciding between the Subaru Forester and the Subaru Outback, potential buyers often weigh the features, performance, and suitability of each vehicle for their needs. Both models are part of Subaru’s popular SUV lineup and offer distinct advantages. This article aims to help you choose the right vehicle by comparing the Forester and Outback across various parameters.
Overview of the Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester is a compact SUV known for its practicality, spacious interior, and advanced safety features. It comes with a range of trims to cater to different preferences and budgets.
Subaru Forester Trims and Pricing
- Base: Starting at $27,095, the base model offers essential features and Subaru’s renowned all-wheel drive.
- Premium: Adds more comfort and convenience features.
- Sport: Introduces sportier styling and additional tech features.
- Limited: Focuses on luxury with leather upholstery and advanced infotainment.
- Touring: The top-tier model with all the bells and whistles.
- Wilderness: Designed for off-road enthusiasts with enhanced capability.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
The Forester is equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 182 horsepower. It offers up to 33 mpg on the highway and 26 mpg in the city. The standard towing capacity is 1,500 pounds, but the Wilderness trim increases this to 3,000 pounds.
Interior and Comfort
The Forester provides ample space with 39.4 inches of legroom and 39.6 inches of headroom in the rear seats. Cargo space is 28.9 cubic feet with the seats up, expanding to 74.2 cubic feet when folded down. The interior is designed for comfort and practicality, with advanced infotainment systems available in higher trims.
Safety Features
The Forester boasts numerous safety features, including Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. It has consistently received high ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), earning the Top Safety Pick accolade.
Overview of the Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback, a mid-size crossover, combines the rugged capabilities of an SUV with the comfort and practicality of a station wagon. It’s ideal for those who need a versatile vehicle for both urban commuting and off-road adventures.
Subaru Outback Trims and Pricing
- Base: Starting at $28,895, the base model offers a good mix of features.
- Premium: Adds enhanced comfort and technology.
- Onyx Edition: Sporty aesthetics and additional features.
- Limited: Luxurious options with leather seating and advanced tech.
- Touring: The most luxurious trim.
- Onyx Edition XT: Enhanced performance and off-road capability.
- Wilderness: Designed specifically for off-roading.
- Limited XT: High performance with luxurious features.
- Touring XT: Top-tier performance and luxury.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
The Outback offers two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower and a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine with 260 horsepower. It achieves up to 32 mpg on the highway and 26 mpg in the city. The Outback’s towing capacity ranges from 2,700 pounds to 3,500 pounds, depending on the engine.
Interior and Comfort
The Outback offers slightly more cargo space than the Forester, with 32.6 cubic feet with the seats up and 75.6 cubic feet when folded. It features a more upscale interior with options like a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system and an 11.6-inch infotainment display.
Safety Features
Like the Forester, the Outback includes Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology and has received high safety ratings. It has also been an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for several years.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Dimensions and Space
- Exterior: The Forester is slightly more compact, making it easier to park in tight spaces.
- Interior: Both offer similar passenger space, but the Outback provides a bit more cargo room.
Performance Comparison
- Engines: Both have a 2.5-liter engine, but the Outback also offers a turbocharged option.
- Fuel Economy: The Forester has a slight edge in fuel efficiency.
- Towing Capacity: The Outback can tow more, making it better for hauling heavy loads.
Interior Features Comparison
- Seating: Both vehicles offer comfortable seating, but the Outback has more luxurious options in higher trims.
- Infotainment: The Outback’s larger display and wireless connectivity give it an edge.
- Storage: The Forester has more small storage spaces, while the Outback offers better overall cargo capacity.
Safety Features Comparison
- Standard Safety: Both come with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology.
- Advanced Features: The Outback offers additional safety features in higher trims.
Pricing and Value
- Base Price: The Forester starts at a lower price point.
- Trim Value: Both offer good value, but the choice depends on the desired features and budget.
- Ownership Costs: Both are known for their reliability and have similar long-term ownership costs.
Use Cases and Recommendations
Best for Families
- Forester: Ideal for those needing a practical, safe, and budget-friendly SUV.
- Outback: Better for those who want more luxury and space.
Best for Off-Roading
- Forester Wilderness: Offers great off-road capability at a lower price.
- Outback Wilderness: Superior off-road performance and additional features for outdoor adventures.
Best for Commuting
- Forester: More fuel-efficient and easier to maneuver in urban settings.
- Outback: Provides more comfort and advanced tech for daily drives.
In Closing
Choosing between the Subaru Forester and the Subaru Outback depends on your specific needs and preferences. The Forester is more compact, budget-friendly, and fuel-efficient, making it a great choice for families and urban drivers. The Outback, with its luxurious options, superior towing capacity, and advanced features, is ideal for those who need a versatile vehicle for both city and off-road driving. Test driving both models will help you determine which one suits your lifestyle best.
