2025 Subaru Forester vs. 2025 Subaru Outback

The Subaru Forester and Outback represent two distinct approaches to the crossover SUV segment, each offering unique advantages for different driving needs. While both vehicles share Subaru's commitment to safety and all-weather capability, their differences in size, power, and utility make them suited for different lifestyles and preferences.

Size Comparison

The Forester presents a more compact footprint compared to its wagon-styled sibling. The Forester maintains a traditional SUV stance at 183.3 inches in length, 72 inches in width, and 68.1 inches in height. Its 105.1-inch wheelbase and 8.7 inches of ground clearance create a capable platform for urban and off-road adventures.

The Forester's interior dimensions include:

• Headroom (front/rear): 41.2 / 39.6 inches
• Legroom (front/rear): 43.3 / 39.4 inches
• Shoulder room (front/rear): 57.7 / 56.7 inches
• Passenger volume: 110.8 cubic feet
• Cargo volume: 29.6 cubic feet
• Maximum cargo volume: 74.4 cubic feet

The Outback stretches longer and wider at 191.9 inches in length and 74.2 inches in width while sitting slightly lower at 66.1 inches in height. Its 108.1-inch wheelbase and matching 8.7 inches of ground clearance provide stable footing for various driving conditions.

The Outback's interior measurements include:

• Headroom (front/rear): 40.1 / 39.1 inches
• Legroom (front/rear): 42.8 / 39.5 inches
• Shoulder room (front/rear): 58.1 / 57.4 inches
• Passenger volume: 109 cubic feet
• Cargo volume: 32.6 cubic feet
• Maximum cargo volume: 75.6 cubic feet

Power and Efficiency

The Forester keeps things straightforward with a single engine option: a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder producing 180 horsepower and 178 pounds-feet of torque. Depending on trim, this pairs with a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission, offering either a low shift mode or an eight-speed manual mode. The powertrain delivers impressive efficiency, achieving up to 33 mpg highway and 26 mpg city.

The Outback offers two distinct powertrains. The standard 2.5-liter BOXER four-cylinder matches the Forester's efficiency with 32 mpg highway and 26 mpg city. However, performance enthusiasts can opt for the turbocharged 2.4-liter engine, generating 260 horsepower and 277 pounds-feet of torque. This enhanced power comes with adjusted fuel economy: up to 29 mpg highway and 22 mpg city for XT models, while the adventure-ready Wilderness trim returns 26 mpg highway and 21 mpg city.

Capability Features

When it comes to capability, both vehicles showcase Subaru's outdoor expertise differently. The Forester can tow up to 1,500 pounds, while the Outback demonstrates superior pulling power ranging from 2,700 to 3,500 pounds.

The Forester distinguishes itself with standard Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-Drive) and offers X-MODE on all but the base trim. This advanced system precisely controls engine output, transmission ratios, and all-wheel drive engagement while enhancing stability control to maximize traction in challenging conditions. Sport, Touring, and Limited trims add specialized Deep Snow / Mud modes for extreme conditions.

While the Outback forgoes SI-Drive, it compensates with standard X-MODE across all trims. The Onyx and Wilderness editions elevate capability further with dual-mode X-MODE, featuring specific calibrations for Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud conditions.

Experience the Difference

These distinctive SUVs showcase different approaches to the crossover segment, each excelling in its own way. The Forester offers nimble handling and excellent visibility in a right-sized package, while the Outback provides additional space and power options in a wagon-inspired design. Schedule your test drive online and visit Castle Autoplex today to discover which Subaru crossover best matches your lifestyle.