The Subaru Forester and Outback are two popular models in Subaru’s lineup, each offering unique features and capabilities. While both vehicles share Subaru’s renowned all-wheel drive system and boxer engine design, they cater to different needs and preferences. The Forester is a compact SUV, while the Outback is classified as a midsize crossover with wagon-like styling. Understanding the key differences between these two models can help potential buyers make an informed decision based on their specific requirements.
Both the Forester and Outback are known for their reliability, versatility, and off-road capabilities. However, they differ in terms of size, interior space, engine options, and overall design philosophy. The Forester tends to appeal to those seeking a more traditional SUV experience, while the Outback offers a unique blend of wagon practicality and SUV-like ground clearance.
| Feature | Forester | Outback |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | Compact SUV | Midsize Crossover |
| Length | 182.7 – 183.3 inches | 191.3 – 191.9 inches |
| Width | 72.0 – 72.2 inches | 74.2 – 74.6 inches |
| Height | 68.1 – 68.9 inches | 66.1 – 66.9 inches |
| Base Engine | 2.5L 182 hp | 2.5L 182 hp |
| Optional Engine | N/A | 2.4L Turbo 260 hp |
Size and Dimensions
One of the most noticeable differences between the Subaru Forester and Outback is their size. The Outback is significantly longer than the Forester, measuring about 8-9 inches more in overall length. This extra length translates to increased cargo space and a more spacious interior, particularly for rear passengers. The Outback’s length ranges from 191.3 to 191.9 inches, depending on the trim level, while the Forester measures between 182.7 and 183.3 inches.
In terms of width, the Outback is also slightly broader, with a width of 74.2 to 74.6 inches compared to the Forester’s 72.0 to 72.2 inches. This additional width contributes to a more planted feel on the road and slightly more shoulder room for passengers. However, the Forester compensates with its taller profile, standing at 68.1 to 68.9 inches in height, while the Outback measures 66.1 to 66.9 inches tall.
The Forester’s boxier shape and taller stance give it a more traditional SUV appearance and provide excellent visibility for the driver. Its compact dimensions make it easier to maneuver in tight urban spaces and parking lots. On the other hand, the Outback’s longer, wagon-like profile offers a sleeker look and potentially better aerodynamics, which can contribute to improved fuel efficiency on highway drives.
Interior Space and Cargo Capacity
Despite their exterior size differences, both the Forester and Outback offer generous interior space. The Forester excels in headroom, particularly in the front seats, thanks to its taller roof. It provides about an inch more front headroom compared to the Outback, which can be a significant factor for taller drivers and passengers.
When it comes to cargo capacity, the Outback has a slight edge. With all seats in place, the Outback offers 32.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 75.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The Forester isn’t far behind, providing 30 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 70.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Outback’s longer cargo area can be advantageous for transporting larger items, such as bicycles or camping gear.
Both vehicles feature 60/40 split-folding rear seats, allowing for flexible cargo and passenger configurations. The Outback’s lower roof height can make it easier to load roof-mounted cargo carriers or kayaks, while the Forester’s taller stance might require a bit more effort for overhead loading.
Engine Options and Performance
The base engine for both the Forester and Outback is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder boxer engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides adequate power for daily driving and light off-road use, with smooth acceleration thanks to the standard Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) in both models.
However, the Outback offers an additional engine option that sets it apart from the Forester. Higher trim levels of the Outback can be equipped with a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers a robust 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This turbocharged powerplant significantly enhances the Outback’s performance, providing quicker acceleration and improved towing capacity.
The Forester, while not offering a turbocharged option in its current generation, focuses on efficiency and consistent performance across its lineup. Both vehicles come standard with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which provides excellent traction in various weather conditions and light off-road situations.
Off-Road Capabilities
Both the Forester and Outback are known for their off-road prowess, a hallmark of the Subaru brand. They share the same 8.7 inches of ground clearance in their standard configurations, which is impressive for their respective classes and contributes to their ability to tackle rough terrain.
The Outback, particularly in its Wilderness trim, takes off-road capabilities a step further. The Outback Wilderness boasts 9.5 inches of ground clearance, upgraded suspension, and all-terrain tires, making it more capable in challenging off-road conditions. The Forester offers a similar Wilderness trim with 9.2 inches of ground clearance, but it’s slightly less focused on extreme off-roading compared to its Outback counterpart.
Both models come equipped with Subaru’s X-MODE system, which optimizes the AWD system for maximum traction in slippery conditions. The system also includes hill descent control, which automatically manages throttle and braking on steep declines, allowing the driver to focus on steering.
Fuel Efficiency and Eco-Friendliness
Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for many buyers, and both the Forester and Outback offer competitive numbers in their respective classes. The Forester, with its single engine option and lighter weight, generally achieves slightly better fuel economy. It boasts EPA ratings of approximately 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
The Outback, with its base 2.5-liter engine, isn’t far behind, achieving around 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. However, opting for the more powerful turbocharged engine in the Outback does come with a fuel economy penalty, dropping the figures to about 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.
Both vehicles incorporate Subaru’s commitment to eco-friendly technologies, including the Auto Start-Stop feature that reduces fuel consumption and emissions by shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stationary. Additionally, Subaru has announced plans to introduce hybrid powertrains to both models in the future, further enhancing their environmental credentials.
FAQs About Subaru Forester vs Outback
- Which is bigger, the Forester or Outback?
The Outback is longer and wider, while the Forester is taller. - Does the Outback have more cargo space than the Forester?
Yes, the Outback offers slightly more cargo space than the Forester. - Which model is better for off-roading?
Both are capable, but the Outback Wilderness has a slight edge in extreme conditions. - Is the Forester more fuel-efficient than the Outback?
Generally, yes, especially compared to the turbocharged Outback models. - Can I get a turbocharged engine in both models?
Only the Outback offers a turbocharged engine option currently.