Subaru Outback vs Forester: Which One Is Worth Your Money?

Are you stuck on the Subaru Outback vs Forester dilemma? Trust us, you’re not the only one. Choosing a Subaru Outback or Subaru Forester is like trying to pick a favorite sibling: both are dependable, adventurous, and ready for anything, but each brings its own personality to the table. 

With the arrival of the 2025 Subaru Forester and 2025 Outback, Subaru has made this choice even tougher with fresh redesigns, new tech, and all the rugged reliability fans love. So, is the Outback’s extra power, cargo room, and road-trip swagger the right fit for you, or does the Forester’s boxy practicality, city-friendly size, and stellar visibility check all your boxes? 

This Subaru vs Subaru face-off (quite the leap from our recent Toyota vs Subaru comparison) digs deep into performance, safety, off-road chops, comfort, pricing, and everything else that matters, so you make the best choice for your lifestyle.

Let’s settle this once and for all.

2025 Subaru Outback vs 2025 Subaru Forester: What’s New?

When you compare the 2025 Subaru Forester vs Outback, you’re looking at two vehicles that received meaningful upgrades to continue standing out in a fiercely competitive crossover market.

Let’s start with the 2025 Forester. Subaru gave it a bolder, more SUV-like exterior in 2025, with sharper lines, a wider grille, and an upgraded LED lighting system. Inside, you’ll find a redesigned dashboard, upgraded materials, a Harman Kardon sound system (12 vs 11 speakers), and Subaru’s newest 11.6-inch high-resolution touchscreen. It’s clear that Subaru is targeting a younger demographic with this refresh; something more sporty and eye-catching.

Meanwhile, the 2025 Outback carries over its strong identity with slight styling changes, mostly in the front fascia and rear bumper. It’s built more like a wagon than a traditional SUV, which has always been its charm. The Outback continues to offer the 2.4L turbocharged Subaru boxer engine in the Wilderness and XT models, something the Forester doesn’t offer, sticking to its 2.5L naturally aspirated four-cylinder.

Forester vs Outback in 2025 is also about tech: both models have the latest Eyesight Driver Assist tech, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and over-the-air software updates.

Some subtle changes make a big difference:

• The Forester comes with a fresh exterior design, slightly more headroom and legroom, and a hybrid has joined the 2025 lineup
• The Outback, however, wins with maximum towing capacity (3,500 vs 1,500 pounds), larger exterior dimensions, and a turbocharged engine cranking out 260 horsepower in top trims.

So, whether you’re considering the 2025 Forester vs Outback for a family vehicle, off-road adventures, or city commutes, there’s already a lot to love about both. 

Exterior Design & Size Comparison

Let’s talk curb appeal. First impressions matter, and when you line up the Subaru Forester vs Outback, they offer completely different vibes.

The Outback looks like a rugged wagon ready to take on anything. It has that low, wide stance that appeals to people who enjoy sedan comfort and SUV functionality. With 8.7 inches of ground clearance (and up to 9.5 inches in Wilderness models), roof rails, and body cladding, it’s already screaming adventure-ready.

The Forester, on the other hand, is more upright and squared off. It looks more like a traditional SUV, appealing to drivers who prefer a taller ride height and easy ingress/egress. The new 2025 Forester design is sportier, with fresh grille work and sculpted sides that add to its visual bulk.

Now, when it comes to size, things get interesting:

• Subaru Forester size comparison shows that it’s shorter in length and width than the Outback, making it slightly easier to park in tight city spots.

• Forester vs Outback dimensions:

So if you’re asking: “Which is bigger, the Subaru Forester or Outback?” the Outback wins in length and width. Height-wise, Forester is taller, giving it a more commanding view of the road.

For garage space or urban driving, the Forester might feel easier to manage. But for open highways and longer journeys, the Outback’s extra length contributes to a smoother, more stable ride.

In short:

• Forester = Compact, nimble, taller SUV form
• Outback = Larger, wider, wagon-like utility
  

Whether you prefer the boxy upright style or the sleeker off-road wagon look can often be the deciding factor.

Interior Space & Comfort

Step inside both the Subaru Outback and Forester, and you’ll immediately see that Subaru puts driver comfort and visibility at the top of its list. However, there are some key differences that could sway your choice, especially if comfort and practicality are your top priorities.

The Forester benefits from its upright design, offering outstanding visibility thanks to its large windows and tall roofline. You feel like you’re sitting higher up, almost like you’re in a compact truck. It’s great for shorter drivers or anyone who prefers a commanding view of the road.

The Outback, being longer, offers a more car-like seating position. The seats are slightly lower,  and the rear legroom is longer than Forester’s by merely 0.1 inches. The Outback also offers heated and ventilated front seats, four-way power-adjustable lumbar support, heated steering, and a larger tilt/sliding glass moonroof in certain trims. All Foresters trims, except the base model, come with a panoramic power moonroof. 

Here’s how they compare side-by-side:

• Front headroom:
  • Forester: 40 inches (41.2 inches in base model)
  • Outback: Up to 40.1 inches
    
• Rear legroom:
  • Forester: 39.4 inches
  • Outback: 39.5 inches
    
• Passenger volume:
  • Forester: Up to 110.8 cu ft
  • Outback: 107.5 and 109 cu ft
    

You’ll also notice differences in tech and materials:

• 2025 Outback Premium and higher trims come with Nappa leather and a sleeker center console.
• The Forester uses high-quality materials, but it’s aiming for more durability and practicality than luxury.
  

So, what’s the difference between the Forester and Outback 2025 on the inside?

• Forester = Roomier in height, better for taller passengers, excellent visibility
• Outback = More premium features in upper trims

Cargo Space & Storage Capabilities

Now, let’s talk about one of the most asked questions in this matchup: Subaru Outback vs Forester cargo space. Which has more room for your gear, groceries, and road trip essentials?

At a glance, you’d expect the more SUV-shaped Forester to dominate, but here’s the surprise: the Outback actually offers more cargo space overall, whether the rear seats are lowered or not.

Here’s the breakdown:

• Cargo Space (Behind rear seats):
  • Forester: 27.5 cubic feet, except base model (29.6 cubic feet)
  • Outback: 32.6 cubic feet
    
• Maximum Cargo Space (Rear seats lowered):
  • Forester: 69.1 cubic feet, except base trim, which has 74.4 cubic feet.
  • Outback: 75.6 cubic feet
    

So, even though they’re close, the Outback wins by a slim margin.

But size isn’t everything. Here, the Subaru cargo space comparison becomes less about numbers and more about convenience.

• The Forester has a more squared-off opening and taller cargo height, which makes it easier to load bulky items.
• The Outback has a lower lift-over height, which makes sliding heavy gear like coolers or strollers easier. The extra length helps with skis or fishing poles.

You might also want to ask: “Which is better for pets?” In that case, the Forester’s taller height gives larger dogs more headroom.

Whether you’re planning weekend adventures or Costco runs, both are solid choices, but the Outback slightly edges out the Forester in usable cargo space and rear storage depth. Or, did we mention that a hands-free power rear gate is standard on the Limited and Touring trims of the Forester? Yep!

Performance & Engine Specs

When it comes to performance, the  Subaru Outback vs Subaru Forester debate gets a little more nuanced. Both vehicles come with Subaru’s standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and X-Mode, making them solid choices for all-weather driving. But dig a little deeper, and the differences in how they drive start to emerge.

Let’s begin with the Forester. It comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder boxer engine across all trims, delivering 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. This powerplant is mated to a lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT), which is now claimed to be smoother. It’s not a rocket ship, but it provides enough grunt for daily driving, highway cruising, and mild off-road exploration.

The Outback, on the other hand, gives you two engine choices:

1. A 2.5-liter naturally aspirated flat-four (same as the Forester) with 182 hp and 176 lb-ft.
2. A more powerful 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four in the XT and Wilderness trims, pushing out a healthy 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.

That turbocharged engine makes all the difference for people who want more performance. It provides better passing power on highways, easier towing (up to 2,700 lbs, compared to 1,500 lbs in the Forester), and a more dynamic drive overall.

Compare Forester and Outback in performance:

• The Forester focuses on efficiency and comfort, ideal for urban drivers or light weekend adventurers.
• The Outback, especially the XT, leans into long-distance travel and higher-speed capability.
  

On winding roads, the Outback feels more planted thanks to its longer wheelbase and lower center of gravity. The Forester sits taller, offering better visibility but slightly more body roll in corners.

If you’re looking to tow, haul, or just want that extra punch when merging onto the freeway, the Outback with the turbo engine is the clear winner. But for simple, reliable commuting with a touch of adventure? The Forester’s single-engine setup is plenty capable.

Off-Road Capabilities & Ground Clearance

Honestly, if you’re considering a Subaru, you probably have some kind of adventure on your mind. Whether it’s camping, hitting dirt roads, or navigating snowy mountain passes, off-road performance can be a deal-breaker. So what’s the Subaru Outback vs Forester showdown like when the pavement ends?

First off, both the Outback and Forester come standard with all-wheel drive, along with dual-function X-Mode (Subaru’s terrain management system that optimizes engine power, AWD, and braking for maximum traction on off-road conditions). You’ll also find Hill Descent Control, which helps maintain safe speeds on steep downhill trails.

Ground clearance is one of the biggest factors in off-road capability:

• Forester: 8.7 inches
• Outback: 8.7 inches (up to 9.5 inches in Wilderness trim)
  

Here’s where things get interesting. The Forester Wilderness and Outback Wilderness trims are both engineered for serious trail use, with enhanced suspension, underbody protection, chunkier tires, and a more aggressive approach/departure angle. But the Outback Wilderness takes things a step further with:

• More ground clearance (9.5” vs Forester’s 9.2”)
• Higher towing capacity (3,500 lb vs Forester’s 3,000 lb)
• Larger fuel tank (18.5 gallons vs 16.6)
  

So while the Forester vs Outback off-road competition is close, the Outback Wilderness is the more capable adventurer overall.

That said, the Forester’s shorter wheelbase and tighter turning radius make it easier to navigate tight trails or forest roads. It’s also lighter, which can be a bonus in snow or sand.

Both are trail-worthy. But if you’re asking, “Is the Subaru Outback or Forester better off-road?” I’d say the Outback (especially Wilderness) wins by a nose.

Fuel Efficiency: The MPG Faceoff

Fuel economy might not be the flashiest stat, but it still matters for someone planning long trips or daily commutes. So how do the numbers stack up in the Subaru Outback vs Forester MPG battle?

Let’s look at the official Subaru estimates for the 2025 models:

Subaru Forester (2.5L, AWD):

• City: 25-35 MPG
• Highway: 28-34 MPG

Subaru Outback:

• 2.5L engine
  • City: 26 MPG
  • Highway: 32 MPG
    
• 2.4L turbo engine
  • City: 21-22 MPG
  • Highway: 26-29 MPG
    

On paper, the Forester has slightly better fuel efficiency than the Outback’s base engine and a clear advantage over the turbo Outback. It’s also a bit lighter and smaller, which contributes to its efficiency.

Also worth noting: the Outback has a larger fuel tank (18.5 gallons vs 16.6 in the Forester), so even if the MPG is lower, you’ll stop for fuel less often.

In conclusion:

• Forester wins on efficiency and cost of ownership
• Outback offers more performance but at a slightly higher fuel cost
  

If MPG is your top priority, go with the Forester. But if you’re willing to trade a few miles per gallon for power and versatility, the turbo Outback holds its own.

Reliability and Long-Term Ownership

When shopping for a vehicle, reliability is king. No one wants to spend time (or money) at the mechanic. Fortunately, both the Forester and Outback are known for their durability and solid performance over time, but there are some key differences worth discussing.

First off, Subaru ranks highly in owner satisfaction and reliability studies year after year. According to Consumer Reports and J.D. Power surveys, both the Forester and Outback are among the most reliable vehicles in their segments. That said, let’s break down what that means for daily driving.

Forester vs Outback reliability:

• Forester is often praised for its simplicity. One engine across all trims, fewer performance add-ons, and a lighter body.
• Outback, especially in XT trims with the turbo engine, introduces more complexity, which could lead to higher maintenance costs long term
  

Then there’s service frequency:

• How often does the Subaru Outback need an oil change? Every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (Per Subaru).
• How often should a Subaru Forester be serviced?  Same schedule: every 6,000 miles or 6 months.
  

Subaru also recommends:

• Tire rotation and oil filter replacement at every oil change
• Inspect transmission gear oil, CVT fluid, and differential oil at 24,000 miles or 24 months
• Replacing spark plugs at 60,000 miles or 60 months
  

If you follow the Subaru maintenance schedule, both vehicles will last easily beyond 200,000 miles.

Safety Features & Ratings

Safety is a big deal when choosing a Subaru Outback or Forester, and for good reason. Subaru has long been known for its lineup of advanced safety systems, and both vehicles carry that legacy with pride. 

In fact, the 2025 Forester and 2025 Outback nabbed a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The 2018 Subaru Outback even scored the coveted Top Safety Pick+, while the Forester was right behind with its own Top Safety Pick. Basically, if safety is high on your wish list, you can’t go wrong with either one.  

So how do they compare when we put their safety specs side-by-side?

Standard safety features (in both models):

• EyeSight Driver Assist Technology
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Lane centering
  • Lane departure and sway warning
  • Lane-keep assist
• Rear vision camera
• 360-degree camera (Forester) and 180-degree camera (Outback)
• Rear-seat reminder
• Automatic high beams
• Advanced airbag system

In terms of active safety tech, there’s almost no difference at the base level. Both vehicles offer near-identical packages in their standard trims, and upper trims bring in features like:

• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System
• Reverse automatic braking

When it’s about visibility, the Forester gains a unique advantage. Its boxier shape and those huge windows mean you get an amazing view of the road. It’s super easy to see your surroundings, making parking, lane changes, and tight maneuvers way less stressful.

So what’s the actual difference between the Forester and Outback in terms of safety? Honestly, not a whole lot on paper. They’re both packed with Subaru’s advanced safety tech and ace the crash tests. But if you want that extra confidence from a higher seating position and clearer sight lines, the Forester might just tip the scales for you

Pricing & Value for Money

Alright, let’s talk dollars and cents. The price tag can often be the final decision-maker for buyers. And when you’re comparing the Subaru Outback vs Forester price, it’s clear that both are relatively affordable but not equal.

Here’s a quick snapshot of starting MSRP (2025 models):

• Subaru Forester Base: ~$29,995
• Subaru Outback Base: ~$29,995
• Forester Wilderness: ~$36,285
• Outback Wilderness: ~$41,710
• Forester Limited: $37,695
• Outback Limited: $39,720
• Forester Touring: ~$41,595
• Outback Touring: $42,280
  

As you can see, the Forester is consistently cheaper across trims. This plays directly into the keyword many shoppers search: “Is Subaru Outback or Forester cheaper?” And the answer is: Forester.

But here’s the fun twist: the Outback makes you pay more for a reason. It offers extra power (thanks to those XT turbo trims), cushier seating, and a higher towing capacity. Basically, the top Outback trims start to feel like you’re driving a luxury wagon. However, be ready to spend $41,000 to $44,700 for the privilege. 

Which Should You Buy, Outback or Forester?

So, we’ve gone through design, size, interior space, cargo capacity, performance, safety, and pricing. But now it’s time to answer the real question: Which is better, Outback or Forester?

Well, it depends on what you value most.

Choose the Forester if:

• You want a cheaper starting price
• You prefer an SUV-style look and taller driving position
• You want better visibility and simplicity
• You’re focused on fuel efficiency and lower long-term costs
• You prefer something easier to maneuver in the city
  

Choose the Outback if:

• You want a roomier cabin and cargo space
• You love road trips and need a comfortable long-distance cruiser
• You plan to tow gear or trailers
• You want more powerful engine options
• You’re an adventurer who’ll benefit from the Wilderness trim’s superior off-road gear
  

In the end, the Subaru Outback vs Forester decision boils down to lifestyle. Are you a weekend camper who likes to escape the city and tow a trailer? Outback is your ride. Are you an urban commuter who wants reliability, space, and great gas mileage without breaking the bank? Forester is perfect for you.

This isn’t a case of one being “better” than the other. It’s about which one is better for YOU.

So next time someone asks, “What is better—Subaru Forester or Outback?”, tell them: it depends. But now you’ve got the info to answer with confidence.

Reviews, User Feedback & Real Owner Opinions

Sometimes, the best insights come from real-world owners, not spec sheets. Let’s take a peek at what current users are saying about Subaru Outback vs Forester on Reddit communities (like r/subaru), YouTube reviews, and other online forums. 

What Subaru Outback owners say:

• “700 miles in, I’m impressed by the smooth, quiet ride. It’s roomy like an SUV but drives like a car. Lots of features for the price. I only wish it had a bit more punch off the line.”
• “I went with the 2025 Outback Wilderness over the new 4Runner. It felt more versatile, more fun to drive, and packed with value.”
• “Love the Wilderness model. It’s powerful, quiet, great on gas (I get about 620km/tank), and handles hills, snow, and light trails with ease.”

What Subaru Forester owners say:

• “I’ve had zero problems with the Forester’s screen, even through a brutal -35°C Calgary winter. Really happy with it so far.”
• “Super comfy ride. The suspension smooths out rough roads easily.”
• “Sure, the Forester isn’t fast, but I’m not looking to race. Plus, Eyesight could mean cheaper insurance.”
• “Surprised by how quiet and smooth the ride is. No rattles, feels solid, and costs less than my old BMW X3.”

Expert reviews also note:

• Forester wins for practicality, ease of use, and affordability.
• Outback shines for its refinement, advanced features, and versatility.
  

A few common themes across Subaru Outback vs Subaru Forester reviews:

• Both are praised for reliability and safety
• Forester fans tend to be urban dwellers or small families
• Outback fans are usually road warriors, dog parents, or outdoor enthusiasts

Subaru Outback vs Forester vs Crosstrek

Just when you thought the decision was hard enough, in comes the Subaru Crosstrek, the third musketeer in Subaru’s adventure lineup.

Let’s briefly look at how the three stack up.

Subaru Crosstrek:

• Smallest and most affordable of the three
• Base engine: 2.0L (152 hp)
• Optional 2.5L (182 hp)
• Lower starting price (~$26,560)
• Excellent MPG (up to 34 highway)
• More compact, nimble, and city-friendly

Subaru Forester:

• Mid-sized, boxy SUV style
• Consistent 2.5L engine across all trims
• Emphasis on cargo height and visibility
• Better off-road with Wilderness trim

Subaru Outback:

• Longest and most wagon-like
• Optional turbo engine with 260 hp
• Best for long trips, towing, comfort
• More luxury and tech options

Subaru cargo space comparison (seats down):

• Crosstrek: 54.7 cu ft
• Forester: 69.1-74.4 cu ft
• Outback: ~75.6 cu ft
  

For those weighing Subaru Outback vs Forester vs Crosstrek, here’s the takeaway:

• Crosstrek = Budget-friendly, compact, ideal for young professionals or city dwellers
• Forester = Balanced, practical, family-friendly
• Outback = Premium, powerful, road-trip king
  

If cargo space is your thing, Outback vs Forester cargo space is nearly tied; both models leave the Crosstrek far behind. But if fuel savings and nimbleness are your top priority, the Crosstrek is worth considering.

Availability & Where to Find Deals

So you’ve decided on either the Subaru Outback or Forester. Great! But now the next step is figuring out where to buy one and how to find the best possible deal.

Where to start:

• Authorized Subaru Dealerships: The most reliable way to find a brand-new 2025 Subaru is through a certified dealer. Subaru’s official site lets you search inventory by location, trim, color, and even dealer incentives.
• Certified Pre-Owned (CPO): Subaru offers a solid CPO program with 7-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage. If you’re not locked into a 2025 model, you can often score a deal on a well-maintained 2023 or 2024 Subaru Outback or Forester for sale at a lower price.
• Online Platforms: Consider shopping through CarGurus, Autotrader, or Cars.com, which regularly update Subaru Outback vs Forester price comparisons and let you filter by features, mileage, and region.
• Reddit & Forums: Believe it or not, forums like SubaruOutback.org and r/subaru often share dealer pricing hacks, regional offers, and end-of-month markdown tips.
  

When to buy:

• End of month or quarter: Dealers are more motivated to hit sales goals during these periods and may offer better discounts.
• Model-year-end clearance: As the next year’s models roll out, previous-year models (still new) are often discounted heavily.
• December: It’s when dealerships feel the pressure to hit monthly, quarterly, and yearly sales goals, all at once. That makes it prime time for big discounts.

Conclusion

When it comes to Subaru Outback vs Forester, there’s no single winner. It’s majorly about what fits your vibe (and driveway). If you want a compact, city-friendly SUV with standout visibility, wallet-friendly pricing, and reliable MPG, the Forester is your go-to. It’s the easy pick for everyday driving, small families, and anyone who loves that upright, roomy feel.

But if your adventures call for more muscle, premium features, or a turbo boost for long road trips, towing, or tackling the rough stuff, the Outback is hard to beat. With its wagon-meets-SUV style, plush options, and extra cargo space, the Outback goes from mountain highways to family vacations without breaking a sweat.

So, when someone asks you, “Which is better, Subaru Forester or Outback?”, the answer is: They both are, depending on what you need.

Whichever model you choose, you’re getting one of the most dependable, capable, and well-loved vehicles on the market. And that’s a win no matter what.

FAQs

1. What is the main difference between a Subaru Forester and an Outback?

The key differences lie in size, power, and luxury. The Outback is 9.2 inches longer, 2.7 inches wider, but 2 inches shorter in height compared to the Forester. It also offers slightly more interior space and greater cargo capacity. The Outback feels more like a midsize crossover wagon, while the Forester has a compact SUV profile. In terms of build, the Outback is heavier, more powerful, and comes with higher-quality interior finishes, making it a bit more premium and costlier. Ground clearance is identical at 8.7 inches, but the Forester Wilderness edges out with 9.2 inches vs the Outback Wilderness’ 9.5 inches.

2. Why does the Subaru Outback cost more than the Forester?

On average, a comparably equipped Subaru Outback costs around $2,500 more than the Forester. That price difference brings a larger vehicle, more standard features, and higher-grade materials, including better carpeting, dashboard textures, and overall interior finish. The Outback also offers turbocharged engine options, higher towing capacity, and more tech and comfort features, making it a more upscale choice.

3. Which is cheaper, a Subaru Forester or an Outback?

The Forester is cheaper, with a starting MSRP of $26,395, compared to the Outback’s $28,395. The Forester is classified as a compact SUV, while the Outback is a midsize crossover, which justifies its higher starting price. If you’re budget-focused or looking for value in a smaller footprint, the Forester is the more affordable option.

4. Which Subaru model holds its value the best?

According to recent resale data, the Subaru BRZ retains the most value, holding 69.7% of its original price after 5 years. Following closely are the Crosstrek (66.4%) and Impreza (66.1%). While the Forester and Outback still retain value well, they don’t top the Subaru resale leaderboard.

5. Which sits higher: the Outback or the Forester?

Although the Outback is longer and wider, the Forester is approximately 2 inches taller, offering a higher seating position and slightly better headroom. This makes the Forester a great choice for those who prioritize upward visibility and an SUV-like driving feel.

6. What is Subaru’s top-selling car?

As of the 2024 sales data from Subaru of America, the top three best-sellers are the Crosstrek, Forester, and Outback, each surpassing 100,000 units sold. The Crosstrek currently leads the pack, followed closely by the Forester and Outback.

Ezekiel Maina

Ezekiel Maina is the brains behind ContentGenics, where he pairs creativity and strategy to craft B2B and B2C content that real people love to read. He has written for brands like House Digest, iFoundries, Harmony Home Medical, Postaga, and BeamJobs, and covered topics like home improvement, real estate, freelancing, digital marketing, career growth, food & travel, automotive, durable medical equipment (DME), and Cannabis. By day, he’s crafting content, catching up with clients from his home office, lost in a good book, or occasionally chasing nature and greenery in another county. By late evening, he’s typically deep in a documentary rabbit hole on Netflix or YouTube.