Forester vs. Outback

Attribute	Forester	Outback
Price	Starting at $24,795	Starting at $26,795
Size	Compact SUV	Midsize SUV
Engine Options	2.5L 4-cylinder or 2.0L turbo	2.5L 4-cylinder or 2.4L turbo
MPG	26 city / 33 highway	26 city / 33 highway
Ground Clearance	8.7 inches	8.7 inches

Exterior Design

Both the Subaru Forester and Outback have a rugged and sporty exterior design that appeals to outdoor enthusiasts. The Forester has a more compact and boxy shape, giving it a more traditional SUV look. On the other hand, the Outback has a sleeker and more wagon-like appearance, with a longer body and lower roofline. Both vehicles feature standard roof rails for added versatility when it comes to carrying outdoor gear.

Interior Comfort

When it comes to interior comfort, both the Forester and Outback offer spacious cabins with ample headroom and legroom for passengers. The Forester has a more upright seating position, providing a commanding view of the road ahead. In comparison, the Outback has a more car-like driving position, which some drivers may find more comfortable for long journeys. Both vehicles come equipped with high-quality materials and comfortable seats for a pleasant driving experience.

Performance

Both the Forester and Outback come standard with Subaru's renowned symmetrical all-wheel drive system, providing excellent traction and stability in various road conditions. The Forester is available with a choice of two engines: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine or a more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. The Outback, on the other hand, offers a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine as standard, with an optional 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine for those seeking more power.

Off-Road Capability

When it comes to off-road capability, both the Forester and Outback excel in different ways. The Forester has a higher ground clearance and shorter wheelbase, making it more maneuverable on rough terrain. It also features X-Mode with hill descent control for added off-road prowess. The Outback, on the other hand, has a longer wheelbase and lower center of gravity, providing better stability on uneven surfaces. It also offers a more rugged suspension setup for tackling challenging off-road trails.

Cargo Space

Both the Forester and Outback offer generous cargo space for hauling gear and luggage. The Forester has a slightly larger cargo area behind the rear seats, making it ideal for carrying bulky items. The Outback, on the other hand, has a longer cargo floor with the rear seats folded down, providing more overall cargo volume. Both vehicles feature a low lift-over height and wide rear openings for easy loading and unloading of cargo.

Technology and Features

When it comes to technology and features, both the Forester and Outback come well-equipped with modern amenities. The Forester offers Subaru's EyeSight driver assistance suite as standard, including features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The Outback, on the other hand, offers a larger touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Both vehicles also come with available features like a power liftgate, panoramic sunroof, and premium audio system.

Price and Value

When comparing the price and value of the Forester and Outback, the Forester tends to be slightly more affordable in terms of starting price. However, the Outback offers more standard features and a more upscale interior, making it a better value for some buyers. Both vehicles have excellent resale value and are known for their reliability, making them smart long-term investments. Ultimately, the choice between the Forester and Outback will come down to personal preference and individual needs.