Subaru’s best: forester or outback – which reigns supreme in ruggedness and versatility?

If you’re in the market for a rugged and versatile SUV, the Subaru Forester and Outback are likely high on your list. Both vehicles offer impressive capabilities and features, but which one is the right choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Subaru Forester and Outback to help you make an informed decision.

Performance and Capabilities

Engine and Power: The Subaru Forester comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. The Outback offers a choice between two engines: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, or a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.

Fuel Economy: The Forester with the 2.5-liter engine gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The Outback with the 2.5-liter engine gets 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged Outback gets 22 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

Off-Road Capabilities: Both the Forester and Outback feature Subaru‘s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which provides excellent traction and stability on various surfaces. However, the Outback has a slightly higher ground clearance (8.7 inches vs. 8.2 inches) and a more rugged suspension, making it better suited for off-road adventures.

Interior and Comfort

Passenger Space: The Forester offers seating for five passengers, while the Outback can accommodate up to seven. The Outback has more legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats.

Cargo Space: The Forester has 31.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expands to 76.1 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The Outback offers 32.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 75.7 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

Interior Features: Both vehicles offer a range of interior features, including heated seats, a sunroof, and a navigation system. The Outback has a few more premium features, such as leather upholstery and a heated steering wheel.

Safety and Reliability

Safety Features: The Subaru Forester and Outback have both received top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Both vehicles come standard with a suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

Reliability: Subaru is known for its reliability, and both the Forester and Outback have a solid track record. According to Consumer Reports, the Forester is ranked as one of the most reliable compact SUVs, and the Outback is ranked as one of the most reliable midsize SUVs.

Price and Value

Starting Price: The Subaru Forester has a starting price of $27,195, while the Outback starts at $28,145.

Trim Levels and Features: The Forester is available in five trim levels: Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Touring. The Outback is available in six trim levels: Base, Premium, Limited, Touring, Onyx Edition, and Wilderness.

Value: Both the Forester and Outback offer excellent value for the money. They provide a combination of performance, versatility, and safety at a competitive price.

Which One is Right for You?

Ultimately, the best choice between the Subaru Forester and Outback depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a compact SUV with good off-road capabilities and a spacious interior, the Forester is a great option. If you need a larger vehicle with more seating capacity and a higher level of luxury, the Outback is a better choice.

Additional Considerations

Towing Capacity: The Forester has a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds, while the Outback can tow up to 2,700 pounds.

X-Mode: The Outback Wilderness trim comes standard with X-Mode, which is a suite of off-road driving modes that provide enhanced traction and stability in challenging conditions.

Gas Mileage: If fuel economy is a priority, the Forester with the 2.5-liter engine offers slightly better gas mileage than the Outback.

In a nutshell: The Subaru Forester vs. Outback Dilemma Resolved

The Subaru Forester and Outback are both exceptional SUVs that offer a unique blend of performance, versatility, and safety. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a family looking for a spacious and reliable vehicle, both vehicles are excellent choices. The Forester is a great option for those seeking a compact SUV with good off-road capabilities, while the Outback is the better choice for those needing a larger vehicle with more seating capacity and luxury features.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Which vehicle has better fuel economy?
A: The Forester with the 2.5-liter engine has slightly better fuel economy than the Outback.

Q: Which vehicle has more cargo space?
A: The Outback has slightly more cargo space than the Forester.

Q: Which vehicle has a higher towing capacity?
A: The Outback has a higher towing capacity than the Forester.

Q: Which vehicle is more reliable?
A: Both the Forester and Outback have a solid track record of reliability.

Q: Which vehicle is better for off-roading?
A: The Outback has a slightly higher ground clearance and a more rugged suspension, making it better suited for off-road adventures.