Compare the Subaru Outback vs Subaru Forester

Subaru Outback

 
MSRP Range$28,895 to $42,795
Towing Capacity2,700 to 3,500 pounds
Fuel Economy26 mpg city / 33 mpg hwy
Seating5
Max Cargo Space75.6 cubic feet

Subaru Forester

 
MSRP Range$31,090 to $41,390
Towing Capacity1,000 to 3,000 pounds
Fuel Economy26 mpg city / 33 mpg hwy
Seating5
Max Cargo Space74.2 cubic feet

Size and Shape

With its longer body shape and wheelbase, the Outback is designed for smooth, controlled handling.

The Forester is about two inches taller than the Outback, which gives the driver better outward visibility.

SUBARU BOXER® Engine & Towing Capacity

Both the Outback and Forester are powered by the reliable SUBARU BOXER® engines. The Outback also offers a 260-hp turbocharged engine option, giving it the ability to tow up to 3,500 lbs. The Forester can tow 1,500-3,000 lbs.

Fuel Economy

Both the Outback and Forester achieve excellent all-wheel drive fuel economy. With their respective standard engines, both vehicles have identical EPA fuel efficiency ratings.

Outback

26 mpg city | 33 mpg hwy

Forester

26 mpg city | 33 mpg hwy

Seating and Cargo Space

Passenger Seating

Both models comfortably seat five passengers. However, the rear seats in the Outback offer a bit more legroom.

Cargo

The Outback has space for longer items and slightly more room behind the rear seats.

  • 32.6 cu.ft. behind the rear seats
  • 75.6 cu. ft. max cargo space

The Forester is better suited for taller cargo and has a slightly wider rear gate opening with an available foot-activated, hands-free liftgate.

  • 28.9 cu.ft. behind the rear seats
  • 74.2 cu. ft. max cargo space

Both models have about the same total cargo space.

The Outback has retractable roof rail crossbars standard. On the Forester, removable crossbars are an optional upgrade.

Interior Features

Interior Material

Depending on the trim you chose, both the Outback and the Forester have options for durable cloth, perforated leather, or water-repellant StarTex upholstery. The Outback also offers a more luxurious Napa Leather.

Seating Features

Both models offer heated seats, and the Outback also offers front seat ventilation. The Outback offers a 12-way power driver's seat with adjustable thigh support to help make long drives feel that much quicker.

Moonroof

The Outback has a traditionally sized moonroof that opens and tilts. The Forester offers a larger panoramic moonroof.

Technology

Rearview Mirror

The Outback offers a smart rearview mirror, which helps provide a better view of what's behind the vehicle.

Outback Touring and Touring XT trim levels only.

Touchscreens

The new Subaru Outback and Forester have dual 7.0-inch touchscreens on the base model, but all other trim levels have an impressive 11.6-inch infotainment system.

SUBARU STARLINK® Multimedia with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™

Both the Outback and Forester include Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ through a wireless connection. A wireless smartphone charging pad is included in every new Forester and is an available upgrade for the Outback.

Audio

Both models offer Harman Kardon® premium audio systems, and the Outback has a 12-speaker system while the Forester goes up to 11 speakers.

Safety

EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology is standard on both the Outback and Forester. On the Outback, you can opt to have EyeSight® equipped with a third camera for a wider field of vision to enhance pedestrian and cyclist recognition.

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